Below, we go over how to choose braces or Invisalign. There’s nothing that makes people happier than a straight set of teeth. This one adjustment to one’s appearance can impact several different areas of one’s life. Nowadays, there are several different routes someone can take to achieving this aesthetic ideal, each one carrying its own set of costs and benefits.
How to Choose Braces or Invisalign: Pros and Cons
If you’re approaching this kind of decision, you might be wondering whether you should select braces or Invisalign as your method of improving the appearance of your teeth.
Here’s a brief primer on the costs and benefits of each of these teeth-straightening apparatuses.
Braces
Braces are perhaps the most well-known tool in a dentist’s toolkit for permanently improving the appearance of someone’s teeth. In this way, they’re the tried-and-true method for this type of work.
Braces remain considered advantageous because they offer a solution for all sets of teeth, no matter how asymmetrical. In this way, it’s a one-size-fits-all approach to the problem of oral care.
Braces are also overall a faster treatment than Invisalign, with patients having to wear the braces apparatus for a shorter period of time than for an Invisalign treatment.
On the downside, the classic complaint about braces is the rather noticeable shift that they make in your appearance. Although hopefully this doesn’t occur, some individuals can experience mocking and teasing while they wear braces (although this stigma has thankfully diminished as the treatment has become more common).
In addition, the wiry nature of braces has the potential to mildly interfere with daily processes such as brushing your teeth and eating certain types of foods. However, most patients find that they are able to adjust to this reality after a short period of time.
Invisalign
The main appeal of Invisalign has to do with how it looks and feels. Invisalign has risen in popularity, and indeed was invented, to be conspicuous in a patient’s mouth as they went through treatment.
Aside from the fact that this treatment is invisible and won’t change your appearance, Invisalign is also advantageous due to the fact that many people find it to be more comfortable than braces.
In addition, Invisalign can be removed from the mouth in situations like dining and the like. This makes it a truly non-invasive style of treatment. However, for the best results, it should be left more or less permanently 20 to 22 hours a day for the first few months.
There are several disadvantages to Invisalign, however. One is that patients will be dependent on themselves to enact a sense of discipline in order to take full advantage of the treatment.
In addition, Invisalign treatment is generally more expensive than braces treatment. This makes it slightly less accessible for all of the patients who might find themselves interested.
Some patients may additionally find it irritating to constantly remove and put back in their Invisalign. Of course, this is largely dependent on one’s personal preference.
Which One Is Right for Me?
Determining what type of treatment you decide to pursue will largely depend on what you personally decide is worth it in terms of the ups and downs.
Of course, your dentist will also likely have a word to weigh in regarding your personal situation. Much of this will have to do with what they feel your personal set of teeth could benefit from.
Economics will also have a hand to play in terms of what you decide to pursue. Invisalign is generally more expensive than braces treatment. It also is less often covered by basic dental insurance.
Overall, you’ll be able to determine the right path forward in a consultation with your dentist prior to selecting treatment.
Consult With Your Dentist
You’ll be able to discuss with your dentist which treatment is the right one for you prior to receiving any type of treatment.
During this consultation, you and your medical professional will discuss all the ins and outs of your teeth, including what they could benefit from as you move forward with selecting treatment.
This is also your opportunity to field to your physician any questions and concerns you might have regarding how each treatment might impact your day-to-day life.
North Hollywood’s Dentist of Choice
Victory Plaza Dental prides itself on serving the North Hollywood community the highest quality dental work available. If you’re curious what type of teeth straightening method would work the best for you, contact us today in order to schedule a consultation with our family dentist and start your teeth straightening journey today.