If you have been dreaming of having straight teeth, you may be trying to figure out which orthodontic treatment you want to go for: Invisalign or traditional braces. Both methods have their pros and cons, as outlined below. If you have any questions, speak to an Invisalign dentist in Montville, NJ, at Morris Dental Care.
Pros and Cons of Traditional Braces
Metal braces are the more traditional approach to straightening teeth. Ceramic or metal braces are bonded to the teeth with a wire in the brackets. Each month, the braces are tightened.
The main benefit to traditional braces is that they work regardless of how bad your teeth are. In the end, you will have a straight smile. In many cases, the outcome is better than what you can achieve with Invisalign. Braces tend to be stronger, allowing more force on the teeth to shift them into the desired position.
The primary disadvantage to braces is that they aren’t attractive. Many people don’t like the way they look and feel incredibly self-conscious while wearing them in certain social situations. In addition, dental hygiene tends to be more difficult to manage, and when your teeth aren’t cleaned properly, plaque may build up around the brackets, leading to staining and decay. You also have certain foods that you cannot eat because they can cause damage to the braces.
Pros and Cons of Invisalign
When compared to traditional braces, in Montville, NJ, Invisalign is a more modern approach to straightening teeth. You will wear clear plastic trays that have been custom-made for your mouth. They are worn for most of the day/night and switched out every four to six weeks throughout the duration of the treatment.
The primary benefit of Invisalign is that it is clear and discreet, which means virtually no one knows you have braces. This makes it great for those who already have low self-esteem or are worried about how others will judge them. In addition, dental hygiene tends to be better because the aligners are removed when eating. You also don’t have to worry about any cuts or scrapes on the cheeks as you do with traditional braces, and you don’t have to limit what food you eat.
Like with all things, there are cons to Invisalign. While removing the trays to eat is an advantage, it is also a drawback. Some people will remove them too frequently, or they will forget to put them back in after taking them out. If the aligners are not worn as directed, the treatment process can take longer. In addition, everyone may not be a candidate for Invisalign, depending on the state of their teeth (such as extremely crooked teeth).
In the end, your orthodontic treatment choice is a personal one. However, before deciding, call (973) 227-1820 and schedule an appointment with a Montville, NJ, Invisalign dentist at Morris Dental Care who can help you make an informed and educated choice.