If your dentist has suggested that you could benefit from orthodontic treatment to obtain a straight, beautiful smile, then you are going to be faced with some choices. The most important being what kind of braces will you get - traditional metal braces or Invisalign?
While metal braces are often seen as the gold standard in orthodontic treatment, Invisalign doesn’t come without its own set of perks.
They Are Almost Invisible
Just as their name suggests, Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible. Unless someone is looking close enough, most people won’t even realize that you are wearing them. Patients who are older or who don’t want the attention drawn to them due to metal brackets and wires love this benefit.
Invisalign aligners are made with a clear, thin plastic that is barely noticeable. And they are perfect for those who want to get their teeth straight without having to show the world what they are doing.
Enjoy All Foods
Traditional metal braces cannot be removed. That means you have to be careful every time you eat -- or risk breaking the braces or getting food caught in them. Sticky and chewy foods as well as really hard foods can wreak havoc on metal braces. Certain candies can get stuck in all the crevices while things like nuts and popcorn can break wires.
With Invisalign, you can remove the aligners when you eat. That means you have no restrictions and can continue to enjoy all foods. Just be sure to brush your teeth after every meal or snack - or at least thoroughly rinse your mouth - before putting your aligners back in.
An Effective Treatment
Metal braces work well which explains why they have been around for so long. When Invisalign came on the market, it was thought to be an effective solution to straighten teeth. But it seemed too good to be true. Avoid metal braces and still end up with a beautiful smile? Many were skeptical. Truth is, Invisalign has proven itself to be just as effective as traditional metal braces - and it doesn’t take longer, either. That is, as long as they are worn as intended.
Invisalign aligners should be worn at a minimum of 20 - 22 hours every day. If you do this, your treatment time frame will be equivalent - if not better - than traditional braces. If not, you could find yourself wearing them for much longer. Think about it - metal braces are working at all times. So, if you want your Invisalign to work, you have to wear the aligners.
With the exception of some very complex orthodontic needs, Invisalign works beautifully for most patients and provides high levels of success.
No Extra Visits to the Orthodontist
While you may feel comfortable coming to your orthodontist’s office, having extra appointments for tightening of metal braces can become an inconvenience. Not to mention that there is a good chance you will likely have an emergency due to broken wires or brackets. All of this time spent with your orthodontist takes away from things you have going on in life.
Invisalign aligners are given to you in advance and you are to switch them out at intervals determined by your orthodontist. And they are nearly indestructible which means no emergency dental visits, either.
Caring for Invisalign is Easier
If you have never had traditional braces, you may not fully understand the intricate process involved in keeping them clean. Brushing and flossing around all the tiny parts and making sure food debris is not piling up in the crevices is so important. It is also a bit tricky and challenging, though most people eventually get used to it.
Invisalign, however, offers a simple method of cleaning and caring for them. You remove the aligners and clean them with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Or, you can soak them in a disinfectant solution designed for them. Then, just brush and floss your teeth like normal. It’s that simple!
Get Invisalign at Kensington Natural Smiles
Invisalign is a great option for those seeking orthodontic treatment. And we’ve only touched on a few of the many benefits you will find!
The team here at Kensington Natural Smiles is ready to help. To learn more or to get started, call our office at 301-933-3903. Or request an appointment online.