A 2015 survey revealed that more than a quarter of people are embarrassed to smile because of their teeth. Over 80% of respondents believed their teeth look unattractive in pictures.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. You can always take the steps needed to get a perfect smile and regain your confidence.
From braces and tooth implants to dental crowns, there are plenty of ways to improve your smile. A good starting point is to straighten your teeth.
First, make sure you know more about clear braces vs. Invisalign.
Both procedures can pave the way to a beautiful smile, but they’re not one and the same. Clear braces work best for complex orthodontic needs, while Invisalign is recommended for mild or moderate misalignment.
Interested to find out more? Here’s what you should know about Invisalign vs. braces, how they work, and what to expect!
How Does Invisalign Work?
Go online and Google “clear braces.” Chances are, you’ll get thousands of results related to Invisalign.
While it’s true that both clear braces and Invisalign can improve your smile, they treat different issues.
Invisalign is a relatively new orthodontic treatment for teeth alignment issues. It’s prescribed for overbite, crossbite, crooked or gapped teeth, and other common problems. If left unaddressed, these conditions may lead to gum disease and tooth loss.
If your dentist believes you’re a good candidate for this treatment, he will place a series of nearly invisible aligners, or trays, to your teeth. Each aligner must be replaced twice a month.
Invisalign braces are comfortable, effective, and easy to remove. You can take them off when eating, brushing your teeth, or attending special events.
Additionally, Invisalign aligners don’t irritate your gums and lips in the early stages of the treatment. Another advantage is that there are no restrictions on what you can eat.
Your dentist is the only one who can determine which treatment option will work best for you. Invisalign may not be suitable for severe teeth misalignment and complex bite problems.
If that’s your case, clear braces might be a better option.
Clear Braces vs. Invisalign
Invisible or clear braces work similarly to metal braces but are more discreet and comfortable to wear.
Unlike Invisalign, this procedure can correct the most complex issues affecting teeth alignment. It’s particularly effective for the following problems:
- Severely tipped or rotated teeth
- Skeletal malocclusions
- Too much or too little space between teeth
- Underbite, overbite, and overjet
Contrary to popular belief, clear braces are not just for children.
One in five patients who undergo this procedure is over 18 years old. As an adult, it might take you longer to get results, but you’re never too old for braces.
The aligners used for this treatment are bonded to your teeth and require fewer adjustments than Invisalign trays. Your dentist will adjust them every month or so.
Another difference between the two lies in their mechanism of action.
Braces push your teeth into the right position from top to bottom. Invisalign aligners, on the other hand, exert much of the pressure on the teeth toward the upper part.
Pave Your Way to a Perfect Smile
Now that you know more about clear braces vs. Invisalign, discuss your options with a dentist. He will not only inform you about the benefits of each treatment but also recommend the best course of action.
So, are you ready to leave your worries behind and get a perfect smile? Reach out to our team at Westchase Smiles Institute to see how we can help!