One of the wisest decisions you can make for a great looking smile is to have your teeth straightened. You have a choice of clear aligners such as Invisalign or traditional braces. You may have your own personal preferences, but some facts can be helpful in making your decision.
Pain During Treatment
The discomfort associated with braces is usually minor. However, there is a difference between Invisalign clear braces and traditional braces. Both types of braces can cause discomfort because your teeth are shifting in your gums. Metal braces, though, can pinch your mouth, and if small cuts occur, they can be painful.
Pain relief can be easy and effective. You can use over the counter pain relievers, enjoy a frozen treat, or rinse your mouth with warm salt water. These methods will work for both types of braces.
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
Treatment time for Invisalign clear aligners and traditional braces are approximately the same. The actual duration will vary depending on the condition of your teeth. Both types of braces can produce excellent results.
Invisible Braces vs. Traditional Braces
Appearance is one of the main reasons people prefer Invisalign over traditional braces. This applies to adults of all ages as well as teens. Braces are noticeable, and often considered unattractive. As Invisalign’s clear aligners are nearly invisible, no one will know you are wearing them except you and your dentist. Whether you are a student, go to work every day, or have responsibilities to your family, this feature may be important to you.
To summarize the differences (or similarities)
- Treatment time is about the same. Both can be used for mild and moderate teeth alignment issues.
- Traditional braces may be needed for major dental work (we can advise you if this is the case) Braces cannot be removed for eating, and takes a bit more effort to clean your teeth.
- Invisalign should be removed when you eat or drink. Friends and coworkers may not even be able to tell you are having orthodontic treatment with Invisalign. Low chance of irritation inside your mouth since there are no wires or bulky brackets.
- You may experience some minor discomfort when getting used to a new aligner tray, just like you would when getting the wires and brackets adjusted with traditional braces.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
Some people believe Invisalign is much more expensive than traditional braces. This is only a myth. While Invisalign has only been around for a little more than two decades, and traditional braces have existed for generations, this does not mean Invisalign is extremely expensive. Although Invisalign treatment costs a little more, it is not nearly as costly as you may think. At Dentists of Ivanhoe, we offer easy financing options, so the price for Invisalign treatment becomes very manageable. From time to time, we also run deals on Invisalign to help you save even more money.
Consider all of these factors when choosing between Invisalign and traditional braces. Some people, though, have special circumstances that make one method more suitable than the other. If your dentist advises one specific method, they will let you know the reason.
When you visit Dentists of Ivanhoe Central, you can always be confident that we want the best for you. Dr Shehan and his staff can make teeth straightening a good experience, and you’ll love the results. If your teeth are not as straight as they should be, call today for an appointment. Our number is on our website: dentistsofivanhoe.com.au.
