Traditional Braces vs. Invisalign and other Clear Appliances

Gone are the days when people with crooked teeth had no other option besides painful metal braces. With advancements in technology, the newest product to hit the market is clear aligners. These aesthetically invisible cosmetic dental braces have become the talk of the town. Still, many people remain unaware of the types of Fredrick braces available for them and the advantages that each of them offers.

We take a look at how traditional braces compare to Invisalign and other clear dental appliances:

How They Work

Traditional braces use a combination of metal brackets and archwires that are tightened over time to apply pressure and eventually straighten crooked teeth. The treatment lasts anywhere between six to eight months, after which dental retainers need to be worn.

On the other hand, Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners that serve basically the same function as traditional Fredrick braces. These transparent tray-looking appliances are molded according to the existing shape of teeth, which slowly fix all the issues that conventional braces do. The difference is that with Invisalign, there is no need for tightening screws on a regular basis.

Potential Candidates

Patients who require correction for crowding, have crooked or protruding teeth, and misaligned or irregularly spaced teeth are all candidates for traditional dental braces. These types of Fredrick braces are effective for treating almost all varieties of problems with teeth growth.

Invisalign, on the other hand, is limited in terms of the cases that it can treat. Generally, patients with severe orthodontic issues are not compatible with clear aligners and have to opt for conventional metal braces. Also, they are not yet approved for young children.

Conclusion

Although Invisalign is the option most people want to go for these days, it is not always possible for them to do so if they have more complex issues like malocclusions.

If you are looking for a consultation or to explore your options regarding braces, get in touch with Firestone Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics at your earliest convenience.