Factors To Consider When Choosing Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic issues like crooked or misaligned teeth are incredibly common, with both children and adults needing effective treatment options. Today, many patients have a choice of Invisalign vs. braces for their treatment. An Invisalign dentist in Austin, Texas, can help ensure that you select the right choice for your individual needs and the best possible patient experience.

Your Oral Care Routine

Maintaining proper oral care is always important, but this is especially true when undergoing orthodontic treatment. Whether you have Invisalign or braces, you need to make sure that you’re taking the right steps to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues.

With clear aligners, you can have a much easier time dealing with oral care. That’s because the aligners are removable, making brushing and flossing straightforward. You can simply remove the aligners and brush and floss as usual. However, make sure to put the aligners back on afterward!

With braces, oral care is significantly more difficult. Brushing and flossing around brackets and wires is a major challenge, and you’ll need specific instructions and special flossing equipment from your dentist. Invisalign takes these out of the equation entirely.

Special Food Restrictions

Another important area to consider when choosing between Invisalign and braces is what you’re able to eat. Patients with braces have special requirements and food restrictions that they must follow closely. Most notably, they must avoid hard foods and sticky foods. Gum and popcorn are particularly risky for those with braces.

But Invisalign clear aligners let you eat and drink whatever you’d like. At mealtimes, you can simply remove the aligners. This means that you don’t have to worry about how foods will affect the aligners or whether pieces might get stuck.

Keep in mind that you should brush your teeth before putting the aligners back on after eating. This prevents any bacteria from building up. You can drink water with your aligners on, but anything else, like soda, will leave behind residue.

Comfort During Treatment

Both Invisalign and braces can vary widely in their overall treatment times. Invisalign treatment plans are generally shorter than braces but can still range from 12 to 18 months. That’s a long time to wear something on your teeth every day, so you want to be sure that it’s comfortable.

There’s really no contest between Invisalign and braces in this area. Braces can cause discomfort, including irritation and cuts on the inside of your mouth. Many patients need orthodontic wax to prevent rubbing.

But Invisalign clear aligners are made of smooth plastic that sits tightly against the teeth. There aren’t any sharp surfaces to cause discomfort or pain. You’ll also require fewer visits to the dentist during treatment because there’s no need for wire tightening. Overall, Invisalign delivers a better patient experience than traditional braces.

The Appearance of Your Smile

The most widely known reason that people are choosing Invisalign over braces today is their improved appearance. While anyone can need orthodontic treatment, it’s most common in teens. Teenagers can be self-conscious about orthodontic treatment. This makes having braces undesirable for them (and for many adults as well).

Braces are immediately noticeable on anyone’s smile due to their physical shape and distinct metal. While ceramic braces that better match the color of teeth are available, they still protrude noticeably from the teeth.

Invisalign aligners are barely noticeable, and other people are unlikely to spot them unless they already know they’re there. Not only are they practically transparent thanks to their clear plastic construction, but they also smoothly follow the contours of your teeth to avoid any noticeable protrusions.

Making the Right Choice for You

Invisalign can be a great orthodontic treatment for a wide range of patients, but it isn’t right for everyone. Some orthodontic issues aren’t suitable for this type of treatment and may require other options like conventional braces.

There are many different types of bite issues that can occur. Some of these cases are very complex and may require several different treatments or a more involved approach with conventional braces. While most patients prefer Invisalign, it simply isn’t always the realistic choice.

The only way to know for sure whether Invisalign is right for you is to consult a dentist. Every patient is unique, and your dentist can develop a treatment plan that best meets your individual needs.

Your Invisalign Dentist in Austin, Texas

If you or your child is in need of orthodontic treatment, you can come to Parmer Lane Family Dentistry for a consultation. We can help you determine whether Invisalign is the right choice to deliver the smile of your dreams. Click here today to request your appointment.