Is Invisalign Better Than Traditional Braces?
When considering braces, you’re likely keeping your options open, and busily comparing which types are available and their various pros and cons. Here at our dental practice near Ripon, we often recommend Invisalign braces to our patients. Here’s more about them, and how they differ from traditional fixed metal braces.
What’s the difference?
Fixed metal braces are attached to your teeth. They involve wires and brackets, which can be adjusted to gently reposition and align your smile. Some more modern varieties have clear or tooth-coloured parts for a more discreet appearance, or offer greater comfort than the traditional types – for instance, adjusting through a sliding mechanism. But, in all cases, fixed braces are only able to be removed by a dentist, which can restrict things like diet and make people feel more self-conscious about treatment.
Why is Invisalign a good choice?
Invisalign braces are crafted from clear acrylic, which means they’re not very noticeable on the smile and our patients in Ripon can feel more confident about wearing them. They’re also removable, so if you want a break, you can pop them out. There are no wires or brackets, as they work uniquely – you just work your way through a series of different aligners, changing them every couple of weeks to adjust your teeth incrementally and comfortably.
Do you have to clean Invisalign braces?
Yes, of course – as well as your teeth. Plaque can build up on the surface of your Invisalign braces, causing them to become discoloured and more noticeable. Our dentists suggest soaking your Invisalign braces in Invisalign cleaning crystals every few days and using a soft toothbrush to dislodge any bacteria and accumulated food particles.
Do I need to change my diet?
Traditional metal braces need to be accommodated with a change of diet – no more chewing gum and cracking nuts. But Invisalign braces can be removed for snacks and meals, meaning you don’t need to make any special adjustments to what you eat or drink.
Do I have to wear Invisalign all the time?
You’ll need to be prepared to put in the work – which means 20-22 hours’ wear every day. That means wearing them overnight, too. Luckily, you can have short breaks, as long as you store them correctly and rinse them before putting them back into your mouth.
How do I get Invisalign braces?
You can talk to our experts near Ripon. Our team can carry out an Invisalign consultation to ensure treatment is right for you, and talk you through exactly what’s involved. Try Invisalign today, and join millions around the world with a straighter, healthier smile!
