Health & Beauty

Braces or Invisalign? What is the ideal choice for teens

Majority of the individuals have reservations with conventional metal braces usually because of the unpleasant appearance they give to the wearer. On top of that, the discomfort caused by the braces wires deduct a few more points from the orthodontic treatment option. No wonder, Invisalign is gaining immense popularity as an ideal option for an attractive smile among teens.

The results of a poll comprising 2,000 teenage girls revealed that 9 out of 10 girls had a poor impression of their body image; only 8% of the girls surveyed said that they were happy with their appearance. And since Invisalign clear aligners are invisible, it makes sense why teenagers prefer this treatment option. However, there are times when the ideal choice is not always the best option for a person.

Let’s sketch a comparative outline of braces and Invisalign and learn which is the most apt choice for teens.

The basics: what are braces and Invisalign aligners?

Dental braces consist of archwires and brackets that hold the teeth in place. Elastic ties are used to keep the braces’ components in place. The brackets are made of a wide variety of material including ceramic, metal, and composite.

A hybrid combo of materials can also be used to make the brackets. Additionally, patients can pick their preferred color for the brackets. In certain instances, it is possible to get the brackets applied on the backside of the teeth to make them less noticeable.

Alternatively, Invisalign for Teens, which are nicknamed “clear braces”, are more aesthetically appealing in contrast with braces. These plastic dental wears are computer-manufactured that do not only help straighten teeth but are also removable and custom-fit for your teeth.

In the initial and subsequent rounds, photos and impressions of teeth are taken to make the aligners. Over the course of the treatment, you have to keep giving teeth impressions for new aligners every 6-8 weeks. Mostly, 20 or 30 aligner variations are typically needed

Difference of purposes

Braces are best for correcting teeth that are affected by protrusions, crowding, irregular spacing, crookedness, or alignment issues. Simply put, it is the preferred treatment option for severe dental problems. On the flip side, Invisalign clear aligners are suitable for minor concerns.

Traditionally, braces were used for all teeth alignment-related dental concerns. With the advancements in tech, however, Invisalign can now rectify dental problems. They can help correct issues such as overbite, simple bite, and mild relapse irregularities, crossbite, widely spaced teeth, and overly crowded teeth.

Varying time periods

Typically, bracers are worn for a period of 12-24 months. Also, there are readjustments required every 6-8 weeks. However, the dentist calls these shots, so the treatment time can vary as per your condition.

On the other side, your orthodontist gets to decide the duration of a common Invisalign treatment plan. A patient has to wear the aligners for around 22 hours in a day and only takes them off for eating, flossing, and brushing teeth. A new set of sequenced aligners is needed every 2-3 weeks.

Different care protocols

Both orthodontic treatments demand special care. If you experience any dental concerns such as gum disease or tooth decay, then you need to solve the issue before getting braces. Approximately, 59% of teens, between the age bracket of 12-19, face dental problems. In such a case, you need to solve the issue first before getting braces.

Furthermore, braces require the wearer to be careful about his or her oral hygiene and thus floss and brush properly. Food particles can easily get stuck in the brackets, which can cause bacteria and odor. If not taken care of properly, braces can culminate in several dental health issues including gingivitis.

Invisalign wearers, on the other hand, find it easy to brush, floss, and look after their teeth in general. However, they have to be careful about taking out the mold every time they chew, brush, and floss. In this context, teenagers may find it cumbersome to adhere to the treatment plan.

Besides, braces can occasionally cause discomfort due to the broken brackets and poking wires. The invisalign aligner can also break. You also need to ensure that you do not expose the mold to hot water as the temperature can damage it.

Braces or Invisalign: what’s the best option?

Al in all, both the orthodontic treatment plans show specific merits and challenges. What is important is that your orthodontist examines the alignment condition of your teeth and determines which dental treatment is best for you.

Typically, if you have a minor problem of alignment in your dental set, invisalign clear aligners can be your best bet. In the case of severe concerns though, braces are your ideal pick.

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