Millions of Australians have used braces to successfully straighten their smile and boost their self-confidence. If you are looking to explore your teeth straightening options, this might be a good time to discuss the benefits of Invisalign® vs braces with one of our dentists at Gordon Family Dental clinic.
Using state-of-the-art dental technology, your dentist will evaluate your smile and discuss the orthodontic option that best suits your needs, preference and comfort.
The most popular orthodontic options are traditional bracket and wire braces and Invisalign. Invisalign uses CAD/CAM technology to design a series of customised aligners to execute the precise tooth movements prescribed by your dentist.
Invisalign vs Braces: Which is Better?
Invisalign clear aligners are ideal for patients seeking a subtle method to discreetly and gradually straighten their teeth. The aligners are made from a BPA-free thermoplastic that is thin, virtually invisible and comfortable, so there are no poking wires causing abrasions to the soft tissue in your mouth. The aligners can be removed so you can eat, drink and brush and floss your teeth.
Traditional braces are attached to the surface of your teeth and flexible archwires, and elastic bands are used to gently shift your teeth, including the root into the desired position. They are typically recommended for more complex orthodontic issues such as severely rotated bicuspid teeth.
Braces vs Invisalign: Which is Faster?
The treatment duration depends on the complexity of your case.
While braces and Invisalign can be used to treat similar orthodontic issues, conventional braces are recommended for complex cases resulting in a longer treatment time.
Invisalign is often preferred by patients to treat milder orthodontic conditions like a crossbite or cosmetic misalignments.
Traditional braces work by pulling on the brackets that are glued to the surface of your teeth.
Invisalign aligners resemble mouthguards and do not attach to your teeth. The aligners are placed over the teeth and push the teeth into the desired position. Your dentist can customise your aligners only to move specific teeth. This is important when treating adults who may have dental bridges or a dental implant that should not receive any orthodontic pressure.
Treatment adherence can also impact how long you wear braces. While traditional braces have 100% compliance because they are cemented to your teeth, they require monthly adjustment appointments. Missing an appointment can extend your treatment.
To obtain the best results from your Invisalign aligners, you must wear them for 20-22 hours a day. On average Invisalign treatment is shorter than with braces.
Braces vs Invisalign: Lifestyle
For some patients, the embarrassment of wearing traditional braces is greater than their desire for a beautiful, straight smile. At Gordon Family Dental, we offer ceramic braces to blend seamlessly with your smile.
Invisalign® allows you to achieve your dream smile without anyone noticing you are undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Conventional braces provide countless hiding spots for plaque buildup, and flossing can be challenging. Invisalign aligners are removable so you can maintain your usual oral hygiene routine and have less risk of gum disease and cavities compared to braces.
You can also pause your treatment for a work function or a holiday photoshoot because the aligners are removable.
Invisalign vs Braces: Are You a Candidate?
If you are considering straightening your teeth or closing any gaps in your smile, and want to know the pros and cons of Invisalign vs braces, contact Gordon Family Dental at (02) 9159 6163 to discuss your smile goals.
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