Difference Between Invisalign and Braces ? Lined teeth can make you reluctant to smile and laugh. In fact, you tend to keep your mouth shut when you speak. Don’t let this discourage you. Because this can still be overcome with invisalign or braces.
Invisalign and braces is an orthodontic treatment designed to straighten teeth. Teeth neatly aligned will definitely make a smile more beautiful and you will be confident.
But what you should know, even though these two treatments have the same function, the way of installation, price, and also the level of comfort in their use varies. If you are curious about the difference between invisalign and braces, then you should read this article.
Also Read Long Term Benefits of Braces For Your Teeth
A Little Explanation About Invisalign and Braces
Braces or better known as stirrups, is a form of dental care that is commonly used by many people. This tool consists of a metal bracket that is attached to each tooth.
The brackets will be connected with a tight cable gradually. This process serves to change teeth in the desired direction. Braces are quite popular because they are decorated with small rubber bands of various colors. This can add uniqueness to braces users.
Furthermore, there is Invisalign, which is dental care made of transparent plastic without cables and brackets. This tool can be easily removed and installed by the user.
Because it is more compact and easier to use, many people also use Invisalign so that their teeth are tidier and flatter.
This is the Difference Between Invisalign and Braces
According to Klik Dokter, there’s five difference between invisalign and braces that should you know. Although the two tools function to straighten teeth, both invisalign and braces have their respective differences. Therefore, you can consider the two first before choosing one.
1. The shape and color
One of the common reasons someone uses Invisalign is because it is clear and transparent. Its invisible shape makes others unaware when you use it on your teeth.
Whereas in the use of stirrups or braces, the tool is attached to each tooth and looks like a fence attached. This certainly makes braces easier to see when you talk or smile with other people.
2. Installation Process
The process of installing the stirrup cannot be done alone and must be done by a dentist. Where in the installation process later, the metal bracket will be glued to the teeth, then tied by wire and rubber bands.
Furthermore, the bracket is given glue using a special light so that it adheres to the teeth and does not fall off easily.
Unlike Invisalign, the doctor will make a tray that looks like your teeth. This tool can be removed and installed by the user himself and it is easier.
3. How to Clean
Because braces and invisalign shapes are different, the way to clean your teeth will also be different.
For people who use braces, it is usually difficult to clean the food debris that was on the teeth when they got stuck. This is because there are many indentations that make food scraps stick to the wire. Usually, this toothbrush is difficult to reach.
If braces are not cleaned immediately, it will trigger other dental health problems. For example, plaque and tartar, which will make your teeth appear more yellow.
In invisalign, this tool can be easily removed when you want to clean it. Usually, you should take it off when you eat, unless you drink what is still allowed.
You also have to be disciplined in using this tool. So, after cleaning, you should immediately use it again. Don’t be lazy or forget to use Invisalign after it’s unplugged.
4. Duration of Treatment
Invisalign treatment you need to put the device in your teeth for 20 to 22 hours every day, and it may be removed while sleeping or eating.
In addition, replacement trays need to be done every 2 weeks, meaning you need to make regular visits to the dentist every 5-6 weeks.
In two weeks, your new tray will feel a little different. The reason is, when replaced, the tray will be redesigned to shift and move the gear to the position you want.
The duration of treatment using a tray is about 6-18 months. However, it can vary depending on the condition of the teeth and the discipline or not the patient uses Invisalign every day.
Then for braces, generally you don’t have to bother cleaning or removing them every day. This is because the wire will stay in your teeth for 24 hours. For check-up visits, you will need to see the dentist once a month.
The doctor will replace the straps attached to the brackets and cables to secure them. As for the length of treatment using these braces, generally it will be done for 2 years to 3 years.
This also depends on the condition of the teeth and how regularly the patient goes to the dentist.
5. Installation Advice by Doctor
You can’t just choose which dental treatment to use. Because, the doctor will adjust the condition of the teeth with the treatments that are recommended later.
If your teeth do not have serious shape problems, for example, only teeth are misaligned and lightly crowded, teeth that are a little loose, overbit, this can still be handled using Invisalign.
Whereas in more complex or severe dental problems, such as crossbite, overcrowded teeth, posterior open bite and other jaw problems, this should be treated using braces.
Conclusion
Hopefully this article about the difference between invisalign and braces can make you think carefully. If you want to get a beautiful smile with dental care, then don’t be in a rush to decide which one to use. You can consult your nearest dentist first, or you can contact us if possible.