Inventions in the medical field have always proved their efficiency. Aligners or invisible braces are one such innovation that has changed the traditional orthodontic practice by 360 degrees. While invisible braces have surpassed our expectations in terms of efficiency, there is still demand for traditional braces.
A recent industry survey reported that 52% of general dentists provide orthodontic treatment. Among them, 45% use clear aligners, while 19% opt for traditional braces with brackets.
Both these braces are known for their effective results, yet, there is still a debate on which one is the best. Let’s dive into their respective pros and cons to get a detailed overview.
Invisible Braces
Pros:
- Untraceable: Invisible braces are best when it comes to providing invisibility. The clear, BPA-free plastic perfectly blends with the teeth, almost making it untraceable.
- Removable: Talk about convenience and flexibility; these braces will exactly help you achieve that. Either by eating, drinking, brushing, or flossing, you are at ease while performing these activities because of its easy-to-remove feature.
- Comfort: Invisible braces provide great comfort as compared to traditional braces. The sharp edges and wires generally irritate the mouth, and due to the absence of these materials, the user feels comfortable while wearing them.
- Fewer Dental Appointments: Traditional braces require more adjustments, hence, you have to visit your orthodontist more often. By opting for invisible braces, you spend less time visiting your orthodontist.
Cons:
- Discipline: Invisible braces call for discipline. Due to the fact that they are easy to remove and wear, one has to fully commit to wearing them for 20-22 hours a day.
- Not suitable for all: Some challenging cases require more than just straightening the teeth. For such complex cases, only traditional braces can bring out the effective result.
- Cost: Invisible braces are custom-designed as per the patient's unique teeth. It’s not only about the material’s cost but also the orthodontist designs an intricate 3D model that is fit for the patient's teeth structure, which adds to the cost, making it expensive.
- Can be stained: If you want your teeth to appear clean and white, then just like brushing your teeth, you’ll also have to clean the invisible braces after consuming certain types of food and beverages.
Traditional Braces
Pros:
- Works best for complex cases: Traditional braces are highly effective when it comes to solving complex orthodontic problems, including severe misalignments and bite issues.
- 24*7 on-duty: Traditional braces work 24 hours. Given the way they are designed, the braces have nowhere to go but to keep applying pressure on the teeth till they move to their desired position.
- Variety of options: Traditional braces are available in different materials like metal & ceramic. The orthodontist may also provide you with a certain range of colors to choose from.
Cons:
- Visibility: If you want your teeth to get aligned discreetly, then this goal cannot be achieved here. Metal braces are very much noticeable and for some, they can be a little uncomfortable.
- Discomfort: Discomfort can be an issue for some. Unlike invisible braces, these braces require adjustments if the irritation persists.
- Limitation on certain foods: Since traditional braces can’t be removed while eating, they are more prone to certain foods, especially hard and sticky ones.
- Teeth cleaning becomes tougher: With braces on, cleaning becomes a challenge. Brushing and flossing become tougher and require extra time and effort for cleaning.
Conclusion:
Now that we have weighed the pros and the cons, making a decision will become relatively easy for you. But do consider what your orthodontist says. Are you looking for a specialist who can provide the best treatment in Kandivali? Visit Smile.in. Dr. Aditi will provide the best orthodontic treatment in Kandivali.