Having braces put on your teeth seems to be a common rite of passage for many teenagers. In the past, there was not much of a choice when it came to what type of braces you could choose from. As long as you wanted traditional metal braces, you would be happy. Today, there are more choices than ever before. The two main types of braces available these days are conventional braces and Invisalign®. Let’s take a closer look at Invisalign® vs braces so you can better determine which one is right for you.
Metal Braces
Metal braces are formed from stainless steel and utilize wires and brackets. Conventional metal braces are noticeably smaller than they were in the past. Arch wires are now used that are activated by heat, making them work more quickly and involve less pain.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces mimic metal braces in size and shape but utilize clear or tooth-colored ceramic brackets that are much less visible than conventional braces. Some ceramic systems even use wires that are tooth-colored to further blend in.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are braces that use metal wires and brackets like conventional metal braces. The difference is that the wires and brackets are affixed to the inside of the teeth, making them far less visible.
Invisalign®
Invisalign® is an orthodontic treatment system that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It involves the placement of custom-made aligners that are virtually invisible and fit over the teeth.
The aligners help your teeth gradually shift into their correct positions; they can be moved vertically or horizontally, or they can even be rotated if necessary. The aligners are precisely crafted to utilize just the right amount of force where needed.
If you have Invisalign®, you will periodically replace your aligners with new ones to gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment.
Pros and Cons
When considering Invisalign® vs braces, each orthodontic system has advantages and disadvantages that you will have to weigh to determine which system is right for you.
Traditional metal braces have the advantage of being the least expensive system and the most effective. Disadvantages include that they are the most noticeable type and may keep you from eating hard and sticky foods.
While ceramic braces are not as noticeable as metal ones, they may stain more readily. Lingual braces are virtually invisible from the outside but are harder to clean, and routine adjustments take longer.
Invisalign® may be right for you if you are looking for something that is nearly invisible and allows you to eat and drink freely. The system is most effective in minor cases and is only available for teenagers and adults.
The Invisalign® vs braces question can be difficult to answer without an experienced professional’s opinion. That’s where Dr. Scott Runnels Orthodontics comes in. We proudly serve Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Freeport, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Panama City Beach and Panama City with comprehensive orthodontic treatments tailored directly to each patient’s needs. Contact us today to find out which form of orthodontic treatment is right for you.
