Are Braces The Right Choice To Straighten Your Teeth?
If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, you deserve to know that there are alternatives to traditional braces, including Invasalign clear aligners. Are braces a good choice for you? Or is a modern alternative better for you?
The results are the same, of course — a great smile you can be proud of — but there are many differences between braces and Invisalign. Understanding the pros and cons before you commit to one method or another makes it easier for you to make a confident decision.
Making The Comparison
When comparing Invisalign to braces, it’s important to understand that both procedures can solve a variety of problems, including spacing issues, crowding, crossbite, underbite and overbite. And both braces and the more modern alternatives effectively straighten your teeth.
But when you choose clear aligners instead of permanently attached braces, you also get the following advantages:
- You can eat whatever you want.
- You can remove the devices whenever you want.
- No one will notice that you’re taking action to improve your appearance.
- Normal brushing and flossing is still possible.
- The feel is smooth and comfortable instead of sharp and irritating
- Office visits are only required ever 4 to 6 weeks.
- Up to 6 free replacements are available through Invisalign Teeth for broken or lost aligners.
Disadvantages of Traditional Braces
When you choose regular braces, you’ll experience a time-tested solution to tooth alignment and spacing issues, but there are disadvantages, including discomfort and pain as well as mouth sores, tooth decay and an increased risk of injury. Also, you may experience a buildup of plaque, tooth discoloration, broken brackets and problems eating.
Plus, with braces there are many foods you simply can’t eat, including popcorn chips, pizza crust, bread with hard crusts, bagels, pretzels, nuts and some kinds of candies. And corn on the cob, apples and raw carrots are off limits too.
Disadvantages of Veneers Instead Of Braces
Porcelain veneers are a viable alternative to dental braces and Invisalign, but these thin sheets that go on the front of teeth only cover problems; they don’t correct them. That means alignment problems and periodontal issues still exist, so you don’t experience the oral health benefits that come along with straighter teeth. In addition, veneers require the etching or removal of front-surface enamel, an irreversible procedure. And you’ll need new veneers every five to 10 years, which can get expensive.
Food can be a problem with veneers too. Red wine, coffee and tea can stain them, plus hard foods can chip or break them.
It Makes Sense To Take Action
Rather than getting braces or one of the alternatives, you can choose to take no action, but that has consequences. Orthodontic issues often get worse over time and also lead to significant oral health issues.
While metal braces can cost $3,500 to $6,000, the pricing for Invisalign is comparable, making it an intelligent choice in many cases. Health and dental plans may partially cover treatment for those under 18. You may also be able to purchase supplemental orthodontic coverage.
When fully informed about dental braces as well as their alternatives, you can make the best and most cost-effective choice for you, your children and the bright smiles still to come in your family’s future.