Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces

The decision to get braces, for you or your children, is an expensive one. Whether an adult or a child, nobody wants a mouth full of metal but nobody wants teeth growing out of their ears either. However, technology has now given another option to traditional braces: Invisalign. But is this option the best, or should you stick with tradition braces? Read on for the pros and cons of both.

For more information about the benefits of Invisalign, contact the top dentist in Los Angeles, Samaritan Dental Arts.

The Facts about Tradition Braces

Traditional braces are made with metal brackets that are glued to the teeth and tied together by wires and tiny rubber bands. There are options to get brackets that more closely match a normal enamel color, or if you want to be bold, you can get colored brackets and rubber bands.

Once glued to the teeth, traditional braces cannot be moved and are worn all day, every day for an average of two years but it all depends on the needs of the patient. Depending on the severity of the dental work that needs to be done, they cost anywhere from $1800 to $5500. Those choosing traditional braces must brush the brackets and wires regularly and might find a water pick helpful to remove food from those tight spaces. Patients must also return to the dentist typically once a month for maintenance.

There are some advantages to using traditional braces. For complex dental issues, they can be very effective. And if you have children who are forgetful or don’t have a lot of self discipline, they might be the best option because they can’t forget to wear them. They are also fairly low maintenance assuming the wearer brushes and flosses regularly.

Disadvantages include pain, sores and general jaw discomfort from the brackets and wires and the movement of the teeth. It also might be hard to eat certain foods that are sticky or particularly hard. And after removal, patients may find tooth discoloration or even breakage.

The Facts about Invisalign

Invisalign aligner trays are made of smooth, BPA-free clear plastic and are worn over the teeth to provide a more subtle way to gently move the teeth. Dental professionals use X-rays, pictures and impressions to create a very precise 3-D image of the teeth in order to create accurate aligner trays.

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign are clear and invisible so you don’t have to have that mouth full of metal. Patients wear them for 22 to 24 hours per day for six to 18 months, depending on the severity of the patient need. They cost an average of $5000, which can be more expensive than traditional braces. There is a specific Invisalign cleaning system that can be used or you can brush and rinse the aligner trays in warm water. Patients are advised to change the aligner trays every two weeks and check-ups typically happen every four to six weeks.

Invisalign provides a much more discreet option to straighten teeth, they are removable, unlike traditional braces, and there are typically no issues with food getting caught in them. Patients usually don’t have any difficulty eating and there are no sores or discomfort.

However, patients might experience some discomfort as the teeth realign and patients must remove the trays before eating or drinking anything but water. They also must brush after all meals to avoid staining the aligner trays. Anyone with bridgework, back tooth bite issues, or anyone needing to rotate canine teeth or premolars or the need to move teeth vertically should avoid Invisalign.

Dentist in Los Angeles

If you have been considering Invisalign, contact the professionals at Samaritan Dental Arts. We are open on Saturdays and you can make an appointment online. You can also fill out the necessary forms, meet our team of professionals and view a complete list of services. Don’t take your dental health for granted and don’t live another day with crooked teeth, visit the top dentist in Los Angeles today.