Depending on your needs and style preference, there are different types of orthodontic treatments available to help you achieve a straighter smile. Today, our North Battleford dentists compare traditional braces, clear braces and Invisalign clear aligners.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
If you're researching orthodontic treatment options you've probably come across traditional braces and Invisalign clear aligners, but clear braces also present a compelling third option.
Today, we’ll compare traditional braces, clear braces, and Invisalign clear aligners in an effort to help you decide between the three. Each has its pros and cons, and your dentist can help you decide the next steps based off your preferences and orthodontic needs.
Traditional Braces
These tend to be the option most people are familiar with when talking about braces. They are also typically the most visible when worn, however, decades of advancements in orthodontic technology have meant wires and brackets have evolved to become smaller than they once were.
Traditional metal braces are the go-to option for people who need to resolve complex orthodontic issues or who may have a hard time being diligent with wearing their Invisalign clear aligners. Braces can be made fun with an array of choices for elastic-band colours.
While wearing traditional braces, extra care must be taken during your oral hygiene routine to ensure plaque does not build up around the brackets that are attached to your teeth.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are removable orthodontic appliances that straighten your teeth just like braces do, only without the metal and wires. Clear aligners are made of transparent plastic material, often making them a more discreet option than braces.
Since you remove clear aligners to eat and drink they do not have the same dietary restrictions as braces. When wearing braces you must be careful when eating crunchy, hard, or sticky food that could cause damage to your braces or teeth. While wearing clear aligners you don't have any restrictions but you do need to remember to remove them when consuming anything other than water.
Invisalign clear aligners must be cleaned regularly to avoid plaque build-up and bad breath and you should follow your usual oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing daily.
For people who are not good candidates for Invisalign but would like a more discreet orthodontic option, clear braces may be a good choice.
Clear Braces
Clear braces are a type of ceramic braces that help patients straighten their teeth just like traditional metal braces. They are less noticeable than the traditional metal that’s been used for decades, but they still use wires and brackets to gradually move teeth into their new positions.
The ceramic brackets match closely to the colour of your tooth enamel, making them blend in much more than traditional metal brackets do. Sometimes, you can also get wires that are a natural tooth colour to further hide the appearance of the braces.
Do clear braces stain?
If you choose clear braces, you’ll want to be careful with which foods and drink you consume, as the brackets on clear braces can become more easily stained than on metal braces. Avoid dark-coloured foods and drinks such as cola or blueberries.
What about cost?
The cost of your orthodontic treatment largely depends on the extent of the work that needs to be done. Oftentimes, treatment costs will be similar regardless of which option you choose. Speak with your dentist for an estimated cost for your unique situation.
How long will treatment last?
The length of your treatment will depend on your individual situation but patients can typically expect Invisalign treatment to last between 12-18 months and traditional or clear braces treatment to take between 12-36 months.