Traditional Braces or Invisible Braces – Which is best for you?

If your teeth aren’t as straight as you would like them to be, you may be considering having them straightened. Although most people have their teeth realigned in their teens, it’s never too late. If you’re in the process of preparing to have your teeth fixed, you may be in two minds about the best method to go for.

Until a few years ago, there was only one main method of straightening teeth, and that was with metal braces. These are applied directly to the teeth and tightened and loosened every few months. This helps to move your teeth slowly into place. Recently, a new teeth straightening methods has become popular, known as invisible braces. The original was called Invisalign. However, now there are various other options to choose from as well.

The question is, what’s the best option – traditional braces or invisible braces? To help you make an informed decision about what the best option is for you, I have put together this comparison guide. Hopefully, this will help you select the most suitable option.

Let’s start with the basics

Both options were created to straighten teeth and improve your smile with as little discomfort as possible. The main difference between the two is the material they’re made from and how they work.

Traditional braces are made up of small metal pieces glued to your teeth with wires threaded through them. The wires are tightened and loosened throughout the time when you have your braces, to help your teeth align. Whereas invisible braces are simply trays made of plastic that slot over your teeth. Your dentist will use x-rays to work out what shape your braces need to be. And then they will alter them over time, to slowly move your teeth into place.

• Learn about the Difference between Dental Bridges, Crowns and Dentures

Which option is best for you?

The option that is best for you – traditional braces or invisible braces, will depend on your individual needs.

If you’re someone who’s self-conscious, invisible braces might be a better option for you. Although you can pay to have traditional braces in an enamel shade, they are still quite noticeable. Whereas invisible braces can barely be seen.

In terms of length of treatment, traditional braces tend to take longer to work with most patients wearing them for between a year and three years. While invisible braces tend to be worn for between six months and 18 months of average.

• Also Read: How to make your Trip to the Dentist Enjoyable

However, invisible braces are a lot more expensive than traditional ones. They can cost up to three times more than regular braces, making them a little too expensive for some. That being said, they are covered under some health insurance schemes. So if you have health insurance, you may be able to afford them.

For more complex alignment issues, traditional braces tend to be more successful. This is because they aren’t molded to the teeth like clear braces are. However, they also tend to be more painful than invisible braces.

Because traditional braces are stuck onto your teeth, you don’t have the choice of taking them out. However, invisible braces can be easily removed. This means that if you’re not someone who’s well disciplined, you may end up leaving them out.

When it comes to choosing the best option for you, it really is a personal decision. Both types of braces have their own pros and cons and are better suited for different conditions and people.

So what is your choice, traditional braces or invisible braces? Let me know in the comment below.

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