Are you thinking about getting braces but want to know about the newest styles? You are not alone! Many teens in Iowa can now choose between standard metal braces and the newer aligner treatment Invisalign.
You can read this article to help you choose which road is best for your dental journey to a perfect smile. You can easily find skilled dentists in Ankeny to talk about these options. All you have to do is do a quick search online for “dentists in Ankeny” to get started!
The pros and cons of braces
Braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment. They work by attaching bands to your teeth and connecting them with wires. These wires put light pressure on your teeth, which moves them slowly into place. Your smile changes over time!
The advantages of braces
They are effective in most cases
In most cases, braces can fix a wide range of dental problems, from minor crowding to major damage.
They provide precise control
When you wear braces, your orthodontist has a lot of control over how your teeth move, so they can make very specific changes.
Braces have offered time-tested results
Braces have worked well for a long time, and treatment times and results can be predicted.
The drawbacks of braces
Braces are visible on teeth
Metal braces stand out a lot, which can be a problem for some kids.
Braces can be painful
Getting your braces fixed may be painful at first, and because of the clips and wires, you might not be able to eat some foods.
Braces might make oral hygiene a little more difficult
It takes a little more work to brush and floss around braces to make sure they are clean.
The pros and cons of Invisalign
Invisalign is a new way to straighten your teeth. Invisalign does not use metal. Instead, it uses a set of clear, replaceable aligners that fit over your teeth tightly. These aligners move your teeth into place slowly, like braces, but they are much more convenient because you can not even see them!
The advantages of Invisalign
They are virtually invisible
Most people will not even notice that you are wearing Invisalign aligners, which makes them a great choice for teens who are shy about braces.
Invisalign can be removed for eating and brushing
You can take your aligners out to eat and drink, and they make it easy to brush and floss your teeth.
They are comfortable
Invisalign braces are smooth and easy to wear, and the adjustments do not hurt too much.
The drawbacks of Invisalign
They are not suitable for all cases
Invisalign might not work for people with serious dental problems.
They require a lot of discipline
For Invisalign to work, you have to wear the braces for 20 to 22 hours a day and switch to new ones as directed.
Invisalign may cost more than braces
Treatment with Invisalign may cost more than treatment with regular braces.
Invisalign and braces: The Differences
| The feature | Braces | Invisalign |
| Visibility | Braces are noticeable. | Invisalign is virtually invisible. |
| Diet restrictions | You have to avoid hard foods. | Invisalign can be removed while eating, so there are no diet restrictions. |
| Oral hygiene | You will have to put in more effort to maintain good oral hygiene with braces. | Invisalign can be removed for brushing, so no extra effort is needed. |
| Treatment time | Braces have a fixed treatment time based on the severity of your teeth condition. | Treatment time for Invisalign can vary depending on your level of discipline with them. |
| Cost | The cost of braces is lower. | Invisalign is more expensive than braces. |
| Suitability for different cases | Braces are suitable for a wide range of cases. | There may be more limitations than braces. |
What is the best choice for you?
People can choose between Invisalign and braces based on their own wants and tastes. Talk to your orthodontist about your choices and get advice on the best way to straighten your teeth so you can smile with confidence.
