bracesHearing that you have to get braces can feel a little intimidating at first no matter how old you are. The good news is that braces have come a long way over the years, and now there are different treatment options to choose from, each with their own benefits. While most patients are relatively familiar with traditional metal braces, others are still learning about the alternative, known as Invisalign. If your Redding orthodontist decides you’re a candidate for either braces or Invisalign, you’ll need to decide which will provide the best remedy for your journey towards a new and improved smile.There are several considerations to think about before making your final decision.

Appearance

One of the first things that comes to mind for anyone about to get braces is what they’re going to look like. This is where Invisalign has offered the biggest relief. As a clear aligner that forms naturally to the teeth and is virtually invisible, most patients view this as a big step up from the metal brackets, wires and rubber bands that have been a distinct indication of orthodontic treatment for a long, long time. On the other hand, there are still many younger patients in particular that prefer to have fun with their braces and switch out the colors of their brackets and elastics.

Orthodontic Problem to Be Resolved

Your orthodontist will determine if you’re eligible for both kinds of treatment based on what type of orthodontic problem you have that needs to be resolved. Those who require vertical movement of their teeth, a tooth rotation or help with a severe overbite are generally better off having classic braces applied. Invisalign is used to treat less serious conditions, such as smaller gaps and crooked teeth. Something else to think about is how well you think you can follow your orthodontist’s instructions when it comes to keeping your Invisalign aligners in. Because they are easily removable, unlike braces, some patients can’t be trusted to keep them in as many hours in the day as is necessary to truly correct their problem.

Maintenance

The way you care for your braces or Invisalign can make a big difference in whether they work for or against you. With braces, it’s essential to schedule frequent orthodontist visits to have them tightened and get wires replaced as needed. You must also take extra special care to brush and floss around all the metal. Since Invisalign is removable, you are able to brush and floss your teeth as normal and simply rinse the aligners daily and replace them as suggested.

Restrictions

It’s common for people with braces to have to give up some of their favorite foods if they’re chewy, sticky or incredibly hard in order to avoid breaking brackets and springing wires. When they are removed, Invisalign makes it easy to enjoy all the same foods. In addition, braces can make it tricky to play sports or a musical instrument for fear of a cut mouth or lip, but the smooth plastic aligners create no such worry.

Cost

A lot of patients make the mistake of assuming that an Invisalign treatment is much more expensive than traditional braces, and therefore, out of their budget. However, the pricing can actually be very comparable depending on your specific situation. Many dental insurance plans also cover Invisalign just as they do any other orthodontic procedures.

After thoroughly weighing out your options and consulting with your orthodontist, you should be able to feel confident in your decision between Invisalign or braces for your Redding treatment.