At the UNLV Orthodontic Clinic, we are proud to offer patients many different orthodontic treatment options as we know every patient is unique, with his or her own needs and lifestyle. Because two of the most popular treatment options we offer are braces and Invisalign clear aligners, we would like to compare the two briefly for those of you wondering which of these two orthodontic appliances are right for you.
Both Invisalign and conventional braces are designed to do the same thing which is to bring teeth into the proper alignment. However, there are some significant differences between these two treatment options as well as some advantages and disadvantages to both.
Conventional Braces
Today's metal braces are smaller, more comfortable and more aesthetically-pleasing than the metal braces used in the past. Conventional braces are cemented to your teeth for the entire time you are in orthodontic treatment.
You Must Watch What You Eat
Because conventional metal braces are permanently cemented to your teeth for the entire time you're improving your smile, you must steer clear of certain foods that can damage or break your brackets and wires. You will be told to avoid eating hard, crunchy, sticky and gooey foods and snacks for the entire time you're wearing braces.
It's Imperative to Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Because food debris and plaque have more places to collect in all the nooks and crannies making up metal braces, maintaining good oral hygiene is extremely important when you're wearing conventional braces.
A Visible Way to Improve Your Smile
Conventional metal braces are very visible which means you must be comfortable with knowing other people will see your braces. Just remember that before long, your braces will come off to reveal your brand new, beautiful and healthy smile you can enjoy for the rest of your life!
Invisalign
Invisalign consists of a sequence of translucent, removable aligners that are made of a smooth plastic material, making this orthodontic treatment option quite different from visible metal braces that are bonded to the teeth. When you're wearing Invisalign, most people won't even notice you have the aligners in. This provides you a big boost of self-confidence knowing you're discreetly improving your smile without most people even noticing.
No Food Restrictions
Invisalign aligners are designed to be removed when eating. This means you are free to eat all your favorite foods for the entire time you're in treatment.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene is Easy
Invisalign aligners are designed to be taken out when brushing & flossing your teeth. This makes maintaining good oral hygiene very easy for the entire time you're in treatment.
The Aligners Must be Worn as Directed
Patient compliance is a "must" with Invisalign. In order for Invisalign aligners to work properly in aligning your smile, you must wear the aligners for at least 22 hours each day. Before you ask your orthodontist for Invisalign, be 100% sure that you will be compliant with wearing your aligners nearly all the time, which includes while you are sleeping.
Find Out What Treatment Option is Best for You
As you can see, there are pros and cons associated with both regular braces and Invisalign clear aligners. To find out what types of orthodontic appliances you can wear to improve your smile, contact the UNLV School of Dental Medicine to set up a free consultation. Our faculty and staff are proud to offer affordable and individualized Las Vegas orthodontic care to patients of all ages!