Invisalign vs. Braces By Dr. Nathaniel Podilsky on September 05, 2020

A beautiful smile enhances the appearance and leaves individuals feeling more confident and self-assured. However, a less than ideal smile can leave some feeling insecure about their teeth. For those individuals who want to revamp their appearance, they can turn to orthodontics to correct a variety of misalignment issues.

When you visit our Edmonton, AB, practice, we can discuss the treatment options available to correct issues you might be facing. Most patients choose between Invisalign and braces. During a consultation, we can determine which treatment will provide the results that you deserve. We want patients to attain a gorgeous smile that they will love.

Who Can Benefit from Orthodontia?

Orthodontia is designed for individuals who are looking to correct the appearance and function of their teeth. Patients need to visit our Edmonton office, for an examination to decide if orthodontics is suitable. Braces and Invisalign work best for patients with the following:

Misalignment
Overcrowding
Underbite
Overbite
Gaps
Crossbite
Rotated teeth

Before you undergo treatment, it is important that the dentist checks your oral health. If you have cavities, worn or broken teeth, or gum disease, the doctor will treat these areas first.

Braces

Braces are the top choice for people with more extreme alignment and tooth issues. Before they are placed, the dentist first polishes your teeth and allows them to dry. Next, a conditioner is applied to the front of teeth to prep them for bonding. After the conditioner is removed, an adhesive primer is used before brackets are installed with a strong cement bond. Your dentist will use a special light to ensure that brackets are secure. Wires are then placed to complete the process.

After your braces are on, you might experience some tightness and soreness. These side effects are normal and can be managed with over-the-counter medication. Any discomfort should subside within a week.

Patients can expect to wear their braces for one to three years depending on the condition of their teeth. Throughout treatment, you will need regular check-ups with your dentist to adjust wires that loosen over time. These adjustments ensure that your braces are applying enough pressure to correct your teeth.

Braces can require extra maintenance since you have to be careful about the foods you eat since debris can get stuck in braces and in between teeth. You also have to be more vigilant when brushing to get into the more difficult to reach nooks and crannies. This might require brushing at least three times a day to ensure that you are thorough.

When your treatment is complete, you will return to our office to have the braces removed. The process is quick and comfortable.

Invisalign

Invisalign uses a set of custom plastic aligners to shift your teeth into place. They provide a clear, near-invisible look for patients who want something more discreet. This treatment is typically reserved for patients with minor to moderate issues.

The dentist makes impressions of your teeth that will be sent to a laboratory. There, the aligners are fabricated to provide you with a precise fit. You will wear an aligner for approximately two weeks before moving to another set. Typically, you will wear your trays for 20 to 22 hours per day.

Unlike braces, Invisalign can be removed to eat, drink, and perform your daily oral hygiene regimen. While you will still need to see your dentist for regular checkups, your appointments will be less frequent compared to a patient undergoing traditional braces treatment.

The Invisalign process typically lasts 12 to 18 months, but it varies among patients. Your dentist will determine how long you need to wear Invisalign.

What Are the Long-Term Results?

Whether you choose Invisalign or braces, you should achieve beautiful, straighter teeth after treatment. To maintain the results of either procedure, you will need to wear a retainer to prevent the teeth from shifting. Your dentist will provide you with a personalized retainer to keep your smile looking great permanently.