If you are ready for a straighter smile, you may be wondering if Invisalign or traditional Braces are better for you. Both Invisalign and traditional braces are effective orthodontic treatment options that are worth consideration. Read on to learn about the similarities and differences between traditional metal braces and Invisalign clear aligners and determine which option is better for you.

The Basics

Both braces and Invisalign are created to straighten your teeth and enhance your smile and overall oral health. Traditional braces are made of a metal bracket that is bonded to each tooth and then connected by a wire that is tightened to adjust each tooth into its desired position. These wires and brackets are supported by elastics.

Invisalign straightens your teeth without brackets or wires, instead using a series of customizable, clear, removable aligners. Invisalign has not been around for as long as traditional metal braces, but it is still very effective.

Metal Braces

Metal braces are still the most commonly used orthodontic treatment. The main difference between Invisalign and traditional braces is that the patient cannot remove metal braces. Metal braces, however, are very effective at fixing complicated dental issues and usually work more quickly than Invisalign. While treatment time varies depending on the patient, the median treatment for traditional metal braces ranges from 18 months to three years, but you will begin to see the benefits of these braces early on in the treatment course.

Something that causes people to be apprehensive about traditional metal braces is that they are fairly high maintenance. With metal braces, you will have to avoid some foods, frequently visit your dentist to get your brackets and wires adjusted, and learn how to get around the brackets while brushing and flossing.

Traditional braces in Edmonton are a very effective orthodontic treatment for even the most complex cases of misalignment.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a treatment option especially favored by teens and adults. This is because they are clear and removable, making them much more aesthetically pleasing and convenient for daily life. Your aligners can be removed while you eat, brush, and floss, and unlike traditional metal braces, you won’t have to worry about damaging your orthodontics.

Depending on your treatment plan, you’ll be given anywhere from 12 to 48 series of aligners along with instructions on their use. With Invisalign, the typical treatment time lasts for 6 to 18 months; however, this varies on a case-by-case basis. With Invisalign, the patient needs to be willing to wear their aligners for at least 22 hours a day; if they do not do this, it can prolong the treatment time.

You will have to visit the dentist’s office at least once every four to six weeks to see the progress of your smile. While Invisalign is a great option for many individuals, it cannot always treat complex cases of misalignment.

Legacy Orthodontics Can Help

At Legacy Orthodontics, an orthodontist in Edmonton can examine your teeth and help you decide which treatment option would be best for you. The decision should be about improving your smile and also improving your overall health. Whether we recommend Invisalign clear aligners or traditional braces near you, you can trust that our dental team has your best interest at heart. Please feel free to contact our clinic today to book a consultation and begin your journey to a straighter, healthier smile!

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