Up until about 20 years ago, traditional braces were the only way to straighten your teeth. Then Invisalign came along and changed everything! Both types of orthodontic treatment provide great results, but which one is right for you? The most obvious difference is that Invisalign in Lincoln is invisible and discreet, but there are several other advantages to consider as well. Keep reading below to learn about these benefits and find out if Invisalign will work for you!
How Is Invisalign Different From Braces?
Both of these orthodontic options fundamentally operate the same way: Pressure is applied to the teeth to make small, incremental movements over time until they’ve been moved into their correct positions.
The main difference is that Invisalign uses clear, plastic trays called aligners to create this movement, while braces rely on brackets and wires. Here are several other differences to take into account:
- Treatment time – The average treatment time for Invisalign is 12-18 months. For traditional braces, it’s 18-24.
- No dietary restrictions – Since aligners are removable, you won’t have to give up any of your favorite foods during treatment like popcorn, apples or nuts.
- Better oral hygiene – Since you simply take out your trays to brush and floss, it’s much easier to keep your teeth and gums clean. However, you’ll need to commit to wearing your aligners for at least 22 hours a day to get your results on time.
- Fewer progress visits – In most cases, you’ll only have to come in about every 6 weeks in Invisalign. Braces typically require progress visits every 4 weeks.
Will Invisalign Work For You?
Since every patient has unique needs, the best way to know if you’re a candidate is to schedule a consultation with an Invisalign-certified dentist. After evaluating your bite and oral health, they’ll be able to create a treatment plan.
But, you’ll be glad to know that Invisalign is perfect for mild or moderate cases of the following issues:
- Crowding
- Gaps
- Crossbite
- Underbite
- Overbite
For more severe bite problems or complex cases, braces may be recommended to give you a better final result.
As always, what’s right for one person may not be right for another. But rest assured that there’s an option that will give you the straight, beautiful smile you’ve always wanted!
About the Author
With 20 years of experience, Dr. Louis Olberding knows that a straight, even smile is important for good oral health and self-confidence. He offers Invisalign as an alternative to braces because it provides great results without the drawbacks of traditional orthodontics. If you have any other questions about Invisalign in Lincoln, he can be reached via his website.