October, 2023
Looking for a straighter smile you can be proud of? If so, you might be weighing the decision of whether to choose Invisalign or traditional braces. Both are popular ways to straighten crowded teeth, but the choice that is right for you will depend on your unique bite, needs, goals, and preferences. Here’s when Invisalign might be a better option than traditional braces.
The biggest reason that people choose Invisalign over traditional braces is that Invisalign is subtle. Invisalign treatment involves clear plastic trays that fit over your teeth. They’re barely noticeable, especially when compared with traditional braces, making them a popular choice for people who don’t want to draw extra attention to their smile while undergoing treatment.
The brackets and wires of traditional braces can rub against your gums and the inside of your cheeks, causing discomfort. Because Invisalign trays are fitted around your teeth, they mimic the shape of your natural bite – with no sharp points that stick out, potentially resulting in sores or ulcers.
Invisalign is a great option for bites that need only minor correction. If your teeth are slightly crooked or have minor crowding, you can complete your treatment in as quickly as 6 months! For most people, you’ll be able to see slight but visible changes in as little as 10-12 weeks.
Traditional braces usually mean foregoing some of your favorite foods and drinks, including hard or chewy foods, or those that might stain your teeth. However, because Invisalign trays can be removed when you eat and drink, you can maintain your usual diet without having to make any drastic changes.
Brushing and flossing around traditional braces can be a challenge. Food can get trapped in them, and plaque can build up. However, because Invisalign trays are removable, you can continue brushing and flossing as normal – ensuring that your teeth and gums remain healthy.
Traditional braces require regular check-ups to make adjustments and review your progress. This can be a challenge if you have a busy schedule or travel often. However, with Invisalign, fewer consultations are required, as your trays are based on a 3D scan and are then created in a lab – not in the dentist’s chair. This allows you to keep your commitments while you improve your smile!
Invisalign can be a transformative experience that results in a straighter smile and a more confident you. Considering Invisalign to straighten your teeth? Book a consultation with the team at Optimal Dental today.