What kind of braces are better for you or your kid? Is it the metal or more visible braces, or the seamless Invisalign? Modern dental treatments have certainly made it easier for people to get braces. Now, you can even out and settle your teeth as you like them through these procedures. However, in the battle of Invisalign vs braces, you need to learn which one to choose.
Let’s Start By Learning
The first step to making a decision about which one is better is learning about them.
You’ve seen braces somewhere, either in movies or on another kid. These are visible metal structures wrapped around your teeth. There have been improvements like ceramic and lingual braces, but they are visible.
Often, metal wires and rubber gets attached to the brackets to provide support to your teeth. Gradually, braces force your teeth to shift the position and become aligned.
Invisalign is more of a transparent and plastic alternative to conventional braces. The best part about it is the 3D scanning technique. You get a mould made out of your teeth and a scan of the mouth for the dentist to configure the design. After that, you receive customized alignment brackets that will work to shape your teeth steadily.
From the basic look, Invisalign is more comfortable to wear and carry but will slow down the entire treatment. They are easier to install and maintain. Braces are more permanent and require changes around every two weeks. Let’s not forget that it sounds painful and annoying to have wires and metal braces stuck in your mouth.
But are metal braces really that worse? Let’s delve deeper:
The Cost Difference
Braces are a clear cost-effective method. If you’re on a budget but need dental treatment, these will be the best option. You can compromise on the material and other areas but still receive special treatment.
Meanwhile, Invisalign will always cost more. Even the cheapest Invisalign is around 50% more costly than standard braces. It does make a difference because braces themselves can cost thousands of bucks.
Dental plans also play a role here. Some dental insurance won’t cover Invisalign, while others might cover partial fees for it. Most dental plans do have braces as a basic need and requirement.
The Appearance Factor
The entire selling point of Invisalign is that they are not visible o your teeth. Unless a person is inspecting your mouth closed, they won’t notice them. Thus, you can go about your day without any worry. Invisalign is a great choice for people who are conscious about their appearance or smile. It will also work great to prevent people from bullying if that is something you’re worried about. If you want the kids to have fun and go about their life, it is a good alternative.
On the other hand, braces are visible. Unless you have a strong mindset, you might grow conscious about it. Sure, children can learn to pick different colors and use them as accessories instead of a necessity. However, if appearance is a determining factor, Invisalign will take the win.
The Daily Experience
Invisalign is more seamless when it comes to the treatment. They feel more comfortable and gradually shift their teeth. Many people, or kids, won’t even notice these changes. Unfortunately, the process of shifting the teeth is still uncomfortable, even with Invisalign.
Similarly, braces will also have a stronghold on the teeth. You might feel something consistently pushing the teeth. It can be an uncomfortable experience. There is also the risk of damaging the teeth or cutting the lips, tongue, and other internal skin due to braces.
For any athletic individual, braces are a bad choice.
You Need Discipline
Invisalign are removable by the person wearing them. You can take them out whenever you like it. This is great for when you have to eat as there aren’t many restrictions to eating. Cleaning your teeth and taking care of oral hygiene becomes a piece of cake for you.
However, you can also get carried away. You need to keep Invisalign on for the suggested time if you want to see the difference. Often, people don’t follow the guidelines, and it can delay the entire process significantly. You may also end up misplacing or losing your tray (Invisalign) and need a replacement if you take them out frequently.
Meanwhile, braces are an almost permanent addition to your teeth. You can’t remove them, and they work 24/7 on your teeth. This can indeed lead to some discomfort, but there’s more to it. You don’t have to worry about taking them out and just accept the way things are.
Unfortunately, eating and cleaning discipline can be challenging for people with braces. You will have to avoid certain kinds of food, especially corrosive ones. The cleaning isn’t as easy or effective.
So, both Invisalign and braces come with a requirement of specific discipline and compromises.
The Bottom Line
If you look at the above-given factors, you can determine which one is better for you. It all comes down to the budget, your discipline, and the kind of person you are. Your daily life will make a significant impact on the results.
Remember that you will have to follow through with some more treatments and days at the dentist. If you’re still unsure, you can always consult with your dentist. Make sure to get an expert’s advice before making a life choice like dental braces.
Your dentist would consult you better. However, you can use these guidelines as a basic understanding of the two. It will help you discuss the potential for the two methods more effectively with your dentist. If you have a severe case of uneven teeth, braces might be the best way to go about it.
