Whether you choose Invisalign aligners or braces for your orthodontic needs, compliance is crucial to their effectiveness. Treatment will be quicker and more successful if you follow instructions, wear your elastics, eat the proper foods, and diligently attend your appointments.
It can be overwhelming trying to decide on the best method to align your teeth properly. Here are some tips and facts about braces and Invisalign aligners to help you weigh your options.
What to Expect When Wearing Braces
When you wear braces, you have a lot of hardware in your mouth. This means that you have to be more cautious and aware of the foods you eat. Sticky caramels, for instance, aren’t wise to eat with braces. The same goes for certain nuts and other hard foods. It is very important to brush often, and keep your mouth and braces clean and free of debris.
Braces are permanently attached, and they move all of your teeth at the same time. This leads to potential for more discomfort, as all of your teeth are simultaneously being coaxed into their proper alignment. Usually over the counter pain medicines, such as Advil or Tylenol are enough to alleviate this mild pain.
It is crucial to adhere to your orthodontists directions regarding your braces, and attend all of your appointments for adjustments. It is also important to wear your elastics. Your teeth are constantly moving around, and you want to make sure they’re moving in the right direction, and on schedule.
What to Expect When Wearing Invisalign Aligners
With Invisalign aligners there is less hardware in your mouth. Many people prefer the smooth appliances that make up Invisalign aligners, over having metal in their mouths. Invisalign aligners need to be worn for up to twenty two hours a day for the treatment to work. You don’t remove them, except to eat or drink any liquids besides water. In that regard, wearing Invisalign aligners requires more discipline than wearing braces.
Invisalign aligners can be fitted to move around one tooth at a time if necessary. This can mean less discomfort compared to braces, which move all of your teeth simultaneously. You still need to wear elastics with Invisalign aligners. It is important to wear them as directed by your orthodontist.
Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, which may be desirable for teenagers or adults. They are fitted to your teeth, so there are no metal wires to irritate your mouth or gums. You can remove them in order to drink or eat, so in that sense they are more convenient.
Compliance is Crucial to Orthodontic Care
Compliance is crucial to the success of any orthodontic treatment. Braces may require more visits to the orthodontist, since there is more potential for loose wires or broken brackets. Invisalign aligners require more discipline by the wearer, since it is possible to remove them.
Staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy diet, and brushing regularly will help to ensure that your orthodontic treatment is successful, with Invisalign aligners or braces.
We specialize in Invisalign treatments, and we serve patients of all ages. With over twenty five years of experience, we are confident in our ability to assist you on your orthodontic journey. If you are in need of orthodontic care, or would like more information, give us a call to set up a free consultation today!
