Orthodontic treatment is not just a trend but proof of the popularization of a responsible approach to dental health. The most common solutions for a perfect smile are invisalign braces and traditional metal or ceramic braces.
How do you make the right choice? It is essential to assess the prospects of orthodontic treatment in a particular case, as well as the age and characteristics of the options, to be satisfied with the process and the result.
When Is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?
It’s worth emphasizing that this isn’t just about aesthetics. Orthodontic treatment can improve oral health, prevent tooth and gum disease, and improve speech and chewing efficiency.
You should contact an orthodontist if you have the following conditions:
- Misaligned or crooked teeth. Teeth cause aesthetic and functional problems if they are not properly aligned.
- Crowded teeth. They can overlap due to insufficient space in the jaw.
- Gaps between teeth. The presence of gaps harms appearance and oral health.
- Overbite (upper front teeth overlapping the lower teeth).
- Underbite (lower front teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth).
- Crossbite (misalignment of the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed).
- Open bite (a gap between the upper and lower teeth with the mouth closed).
- Jaw alignment issues that affect chewing, speaking, and jaw health.
- Teeth grinding (bruxism), leading to premature tooth wear.
At What Age Is It Best to Straighten Teeth?
It is generally accepted that orthodontic treatment is most effective during adolescence when the jaw and teeth are still developing. However, adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatment, especially with modern systems for older patients.
Remember, there is no upper age limit for achieving a healthier, straighter smile!
Invisalign: Pros, Cons, Installation, and Care Features
Invisalign is one of the innovative orthodontic treatment options. It involves using clear, removable aligners to move teeth into the correct position.
This system is designed to be the most discreet and invisible method of correction, which will not attract the attention of others and cause severe discomfort.
Invisalign Advantages
- Aesthetics. The main advantage of this option for patients, especially children and teenagers, is its invisibility. Clear aligners are virtually invisible, eliminating the awkwardness caused by traditional braces.
- Possibility to remove aligners. Unlike braces, Invisalign can be temporarily removed for meals, brushing, and special occasions.
- Comfort. Aligners are custom-made from smooth plastic. This reduces the chance of irritation or discomfort.
- Ease of care. In many ways, the popularity of Invisalign is due to fewer visits to the dentist to correct the system and the simplicity of the design, which does not have an arch, clasps, etc.
Invisalign Disadvantages
- It takes self-discipline. Patients must wear the aligners 20–22 hours daily to achieve the desired effect. You should also take proper care of them and your teeth, maintain an optimal level of oral hygiene, and visit the dentist promptly to monitor treatment.
- Not suitable for all cases. Invisalign is not efficient for complex orthodontic problems that require traditional braces.
How Is Invisalign Installed?
The treatment process begins with an orthodontist consultation and a 3D dental scan. Based on the data obtained, a series of individual aligners are made.
Each set is worn for about two weeks and, upon the dentist’s recommendation, is replaced with the next one, gradually moving the teeth to the ideal position.
When getting Invisalign, you should visit an orthodontist every six to eight weeks to monitor your progress.
How to Take Care of Your Teeth After Invisalign Installation?
- Keep aligners clean. Brush and rinse your aligners daily to prevent bacteria buildup. However, do not use too hot water — high temperatures can damage the aligner material.
- Maintain good oral hygiene. Continue to brush and floss as usual. Pay attention to the areas where the aligners touch.
Traditional Braces: Pros, Cons, Installation, and Care Features
Traditional braces consist of metal brackets attached to the teeth and connected with wire. Such a design effectively moves the teeth for alignment, exerting sufficient pressure.
Installing braces is a time-tested method for correcting various orthodontic problems.
Braces Advantages
- Efficiency in complex cases. Braces can cope with severe bite disorders and other orthodontic problems.
- No self-discipline is required. Unlike Invisalign, the patient installs braces at the dentist and uses them 24/7, meaning they do not have to worry about forgetting to put them on.
- Variety of options. Modern braces offer patients a wide range of practical solutions, including ceramic braces that blend into the teeth and lingual braces that sit on the back of the teeth.
Braces Disadvantages
- Insufficient aesthetics. Metal brackets and wires are more visible than Invisalign. After installation, some patients, especially teenagers, feel awkward interacting with others.
- Discomfort. Braces can irritate the cheeks and gums, and adjustments are temporarily painful.
- Diet restrictions. After installation, dentists recommend avoiding certain foods to avoid damaging the braces. It applies in particular to hard and sticky products.
How Are Braces Installed?
During installation, brackets are attached to the teeth, and wires are threaded through them. The system applies pressure, gradually moving the teeth.
Periodic adjustments, usually every 4 to 6 weeks, are needed to tighten the wires and allow for further progress.
How to Care for Your Teeth After Braces?
- Brushing and flossing. Of course, braces can complicate your oral hygiene. It is essential to thoroughly brush and floss around your braces to prevent plaque buildup and tooth decay.
- Avoid sticky and hard foods. Popcorn, chewing gum, and various crunchy snacks can damage your braces.
Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces: Which Is Better?
Choose Invisalign if:
- You don’t want to attract attention and are looking for an almost invisible solution;
- The ability to remove your aligners for meals and special occasions is important to you;
- Your orthodontic issue is mild to moderate.
Choose conventional braces if:
- You have a more complex orthodontic case requiring intensive treatment;
- You prefer solutions that don’t require self-discipline;
- Furthermore, you are looking for an efficient option for all orthodontic problems.
Both are effective ways to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. The main task is to find the one that suits you best!
