Do you desire perfectly aligned teeth? Not only do straighter teeth help improve the appearance of your smile, but they also minimise the chances of cavities and periodontal disease from developing. This is because there are no gaps or hidden crevices that allow bacteria to grow.
There a number of different options available for patients to choose from. However, the two main types most people consider are Invisalign and metal braces.
But which is right for you? To help you make an informed decision, here’s a break down of the differences between the two and the pros and cons of each.
Invisalign
Invisalign aligners are clear, removable appliances that straighten your teeth without the use of brackets or wires. Thanks to innovations in 3D technology, these invisible braces can also be customised to fit the shape of your teeth.
Traditional metal braces
Metal braces have been used for many decades to straighten people’s teeth. They consist of a metal bracket that bonds to each tooth which are all connected by metal wire to tighten the teeth into the desired occlusion and position.
Aesthetics
Invisalign are made from a flexible, transparent acrylic material – perfect for clients who are wanting to straighten their teeth without drawing unwarranted attention – no one will know the difference!
However, there’s no avoiding the impact metal braces have on the aesthetic appearance of your smile. The metal wiring and brackets are visible, which makes them more noticeable as a result.
Treatment time
Invisalign treatment time is usually a lot faster than traditional braces. It can take about 6 months to a year for your teeth to become perfectly straight. Within that time, your orthodontist will prescribe you with 18 – 30 braces, supported by regular check-ups every 6 – 8 weeks to see how you are progressing.
The aligners must also be worn for up to 20-22 hours a day if the treatment is to be successful.
Metal braces are attached to your teeth permanently throughout the course of your treatment, and can take up to two years or more to complete. They also require regular adjustments every 4 – 8 weeks.
Oral maintenance
Luckily with invisible aligners, most people will find them very comfortable in comparison to metal braces. Not only do they fit snugly over your teeth, but you are also able to remove them throughout the day for eating, drinking, sports activities, brushing and flossing. This makes it much easier to maintain your oral hygiene routine.
Plus, taking care of your Invisalign is easier than ever. Simply, giver them a gentle rinse and clean every night to keep them in good condition.
However, unlike removable aligners, you will need to take extra care with metal braces, as they need to be thoroughly cleaned after every meal in order to prevent food debris getting stuck between the metal wiring or brackets. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid sticky or hard foods which could disrupt the process, and possibly lead to tooth decay and discolouration if not removed.
Cost
Finally, the cost of both Invisalign treatment and meal braces starts from £1,500 and at maximum £5,000 – £7,000 in costs. But all prices may vary depending on the severity of how misaligned your teeth are and the type of appliance used.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Invisalign and metal braces are equally effective tools in improving crowded or crooked teeth and giving you the smile of your dreams. Selecting the right one is down to personal preference, but it’s always good to get professional advice to help guide you in the right direction.
If you’re looking to achieve a straighter, more attractive smile, Ten Dental have got you covered. We offer a wide variety of orthodontic treatments in London for both adults and children, including Invisalign and metal braces.
Book for an appointment today by visiting your nearest dental clinic in Wandsworth, Balham, or Clapham High Street.