At Bosonac Orthodontics, we’re proud to be your local smile experts – 50 years running! And part of that legacy means we want you to feel empowered to understand the ins and outs of various possible orthodontic treatments. You may be wondering – should you get braces or Invisalign? Well, we’ve asked Dr. Brian and the team to give us a rundown on the benefits of each, so read on to learn more!
Understanding Braces
We’re all familiar with braces to some degree, and for good reason – they work extremely well! Today’s modern metal braces are lighter, more efficient, and more comfortable than ever before, and they’ve helped millions of people achieve straighter teeth and healthier smiles. They consist of metal brackets glued to your teeth and connected by wires and elastic bands. These components work together to shift your teeth into the desired position comfortably over time.
Benefits of Braces
Braces offer several advantages, especially for those with complex orthodontic issues. Here are some key benefits of braces:
- Effective for Complex Cases: Braces are highly effective at correcting severe misalignments, including overbites, underbites, and crossbites. They can also address gaps and crowded teeth more efficiently than other treatments.
- Continuous Treatment: Unlike clear aligners, braces work continuously, applying consistent pressure to move teeth. This can result in faster treatment times for some patients.
- Durability: Braces are durable and less likely to be lost or damaged, making them a reliable option for children and teenagers.
Understanding Invisalign
Invisalign, often referred to as clear aligners, is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses a series of custom-made, virtually invisible plastic trays to straighten teeth. These aligners are removable, making them a popular choice if you’re interested in a more low-key, discrete option. For that reason, they’re very popular with many of our adult patients and older teens who might prioritize a more under-the-radar option.
Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign offers a number of pretty fantastic advantages, making it a popular alternative to metal braces. Here are some key benefits of Invisalign:
- Aesthetically Pleasing: Invisalign aligners are clear and nearly invisible, making them an excellent choice for those who want a more discreet orthodontic treatment. This is particularly beneficial for adults and teens who may feel self-conscious about wearing braces.
- Removability: One significant advantage of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. This makes eating, brushing, and flossing much more convenient compared to traditional braces. You can enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions and maintain better oral hygiene.
- Comfort: Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic, which tends to be more comfortable than the metal wires and brackets of braces. There are no sharp edges to irritate your gums or cheeks.
Braces vs. Invisalign: Factors to Consider
When deciding between braces and Invisalign, you’ll have several factors to consider – but remember, the team at Bosonac Orthodontics will work closely with you to help determine the treatment that aligns best with your unique priorities. In the meantime, here are some points to consider:
Complexity of Treatment
If you have severe orthodontic issues, such as significant misalignments or bite problems, braces might be the better choice due to their effectiveness in handling complex cases. However, for mild to moderate issues, Invisalign can be just as effective and offers the added benefits of being nearly invisible and removable.
Lifestyle and Convenience
Consider your lifestyle and how each treatment option fits into it. Invisalign offers the flexibility of removable aligners, making it easier to maintain your regular eating and oral hygiene habits. On the other hand, braces are fixed and require more diligence in avoiding certain foods and maintaining oral hygiene around the brackets and wires.
Age and Responsibility
Braces are often recommended for younger patients who may not have the discipline to keep Invisalign aligners in for the required 20-22 hours per day. Invisalign, however, can be a great option for responsible teens and adults who prefer a more discreet treatment.
Making the Decision: Braces vs. Invisalign
Deciding between braces and Invisalign ultimately depends on your individual needs, preferences, and orthodontic requirements. Consulting with Dr. Bosonac at Bosonac Orthodontics will provide you with the professional guidance needed to make an informed decision. Whether you choose braces or Invisalign, the goal is to achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that you can be proud of.
Call Today to Get Started!
We’re so grateful you’ve taken the time to learn a bit more about your treatment options with Bosonac Orthodontics. Still have questions? Perfect! Give us a call today or just fill out this convenient online form to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Brian, Dr. Stephen, or Dr. Dinesh at our Brick or Clark office to talk about your options and start your journey to a perfect smile.
We can’t wait to get started!