Are you considering orthodontic treatment to create the beautiful smile you always dreamed of? It's a big decision and one that requires research if you are considering Invisalign as an alternative to traditional braces. Both methods will lead you to your new smile, but the roads traveled during treatment are quite different.
For the most part, people are already familiar with how braces with metal or clear ceramic brackets work, so let’s just discuss Invisalign. One of the primary reasons people choose Invisalign is that they are self-conscious about wearing braces, and the Invisalign aligners are nearly undetectable when worn. Most people won’t even notice you're wearing them! Plus, contrary to what you might expect, your speech sounds fine to others in a very short period of time, once you get used to wearing the Invisalign aligner.
Most patients have the option of choosing braces or Invisalign, but Invisalign doesn’t always work for everyone. Dr. Paul Karl can consult with you and help you decide if Invisalign is a good option for you.
Points To Consider When Choosing Braces Vs. Invisalign
- Self-discipline is important. Invisalign is removable. That means that success depends upon your ability to follow instructions, always wear your aligners except when eating or brushing teeth, and keep track of them when out of the mouth. With braces, we don’t have to depend as much on the patient to ensure that treatment is followed.
- Minor discomfort may occur. Patients are required to wear the aligners 20–22 hours per day. They also need to understand that, when they switch to their next set of aligners every two weeks, the new aligners will be snug in order to continue the tooth movement process. Some short term discomfort should be expected, and the aligners cannot be removed to eliminate the issue. We suggest you put your new aligner in right before bed. By morning, your teeth will most likely have already adapted to the new fit.
- Is Invisalign the best option for you? An orthodontist is a specialist in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. All orthodontists are dentists, but only about six percent of dentists are orthodontists. Because of their specialized training, orthodontists are more qualified to determine what type of braces or orthodontic treatment options are best for you or your child.
Treatment time with Invisalign varies, depending upon the severity of the problem, and you can usually expect it to last a minimum of 12 months. If you're not sure that you or your child is a good candidate for Invisalign, the team at Karl Orthodontics will address your treatment concerns during a complimentary smile exam to determine whether braces or Invisalign is best for you.
This information is not meant as medical advice. It is provided solely for education. Our orthodontics office in Grand Rapids, MI, would be pleased to discuss your unique circumstances and needs as they relate to these topics.
