Have you been considering getting braces for a while, but aren’t sure which type of braces would be the best for you? Most adults who are considering getting braces narrow it down to two different types of braces, traditional braces (which in this case could refer to metal, ceramic or even clear bracket braces) and invisible aligners. Each of these options works effectively to create a beautiful smile for the person wearing them. However, this doesn’t mean that both options are the most effective treatment for everyone. This article discusses the pros and cons of both traditional braces and invisible aligners and other useful material to assist you in determining which type of braces will work the best for you.
In addition to this information, it is essential that you speak with the experts at Randall Orthodontics about your options. Call us to schedule a free consultation to discuss whether Blackfoot metal braces are the right choice for you or if there is perhaps a different orthodontic treatment route that would prove to be more beneficial.
Traditional Braces and Invisible Trays: The Basics
Before we examine the benefits and potential disadvantages that both of these orthodontic treatment options offer, it is important to have a basic understanding of what each type of treatment is and how it works to straighten the teeth and bite.
Traditional Braces
Traditional braces or metal braces are some of the most common forms of braces that you will see, even though there is a multitude of different treatment options available. Traditional braces can also refer to clear and ceramic braces in Blackfoot since they are work and are fitted to the teeth the same way that metal braces are. Traditional braces use brackets and wired to change the shape of your bite, straighten teeth and remove gaps between teeth. The brackets that are used are bonded to the teeth with a special type of glue. These brackets are then connected by a wire that applies pressure to the appropriate parts of the mouth and teeth in order to move the teeth into the correct position over time. More often than not, inter-arch rubber bands will be used throughout the duration of treatment in order to move the jaw and teeth into the precise position more quickly.
Invisible Trays
Just like ceramic braces in Blackfoot, invisible trays are designed to straighten the teeth and bite overtime by applying pressure to specific spots. That’s where the similarities between these orthodontic treatments end. Invisible trays are created by using molds and x-rays in order to create a system of trays that mold to the outside of your teeth in order to reposition them. Invisible trays are not permanently bonded to the teeth and no wire or rubber bands are used.
Benefits of Traditional Braces
- Cost – The cost of metal braces in Blackfoot is one of the main advantages of choosing traditional braces over clear aligners. Although the cost will vary from patient to patient, you can expect to pay less for traditional braces then clear aligners.
- Treatment Time – Since metal braces are permanently bonded to your teeth, they work faster than invisible trays. Most patients should expect to have their traditional braces on from 18 to 36 months.
- Effectiveness – Metal braces in Blackfoot are the optimal option for someone whose orthodontic needs are more than just straightening a couple of teeth. Traditional braces are created for simple and complex cases alike.
The Pros & Cons of Traditional Braces
Disadvantages of Traditional Braces
- Not Discreet – While some ceramic and clear braces in Blackfoot are more discreet than traditional metal brackets, they are still visible. This can be seen as a disadvantage for someone who wants their braces to be less noticeable.
- Not The Best For Contact Sports – If you play contact sports you’ll want to speak with your Blackfoot orthodontist about getting a mouthguard before playing on the field. A blow to the face during contact sports could result in injury.
The Pros & Cons of Clear Aligners
Benefits of Invisible Aligners
- Appearance – One of the main and most obvious benefits of invisible trays is that they are clear. This makes it difficult to tell that you are even wearing braces which is a definite advantage for someone looking to avoid “metal mouth”.
- Removable – Invisible trays can be removed when you’re eating and brushing your teeth which allows you to still eat the food you love and keep your teeth clean without worrying about breaking a bracket or getting food stuck between your wires.
- Comfort – Invisible trays have been known to be more comfortable than traditional braces.
Disadvantages of Invisible Aligners
- Cost – Invisible aligners are more expensive than metal braces in Blackfoot. Additionally, some dental insurance won’t pay for clear trays so you may end up paying for your entire orthodontic treatment out of pocket. Speak with Randall orthodontics to discuss what payment options are available.
- Time – In some cases, invisible aligners don’t work as fast as metal or ceramic braces. This is usually because the patient forgets to put their trays back in right after eating or brushing their teeth.
- Not For Everyone – Invisible aligners cannot help with more complex orthodontic cases. If you have major bite issues, bridgework, or need to rotate canines or premolars invisible trays will not be effective in treating these.
Clear aligners and other forms of braces in Blackfoot can all be effective when used with the optimal treatment plan as prescribed by your orthodontist. Contact Randall orthodontics today to schedule an appointment to discuss which of these orthodontic treatment plans is going to give you the smile you’ve always wanted in the least amount of time.
