Pros And Cons Of Invisible Braces

With more and more adults getting braces to correct misaligned teeth, there is a growing need for invisible braces or Invisalign. These braces don't use the same wire and metal brackets as traditional braces. In fact, you can barely tell you're wearing them, hence the name. If you are thinking about getting braces, check out these four pros and cons of invisible braces 

Pro: They Are Made From Clear Aligners

The biggest benefit of invisible braces is they are invisible. Traditional braces use metal wire and brackets to move teeth. However, Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners to move your teeth. They are fitted to your bite with just a little alteration to force the teeth to move into position slowly. The aligners are frequently upgraded to keep moving your teeth. Because they are made from clear, smooth plastic, there is no painful poking as with traditional wire braces.

Pro: They Are Easy to Clean

With traditional braces, there are foods you have to avoid because they can get caught in your braces, which makes cleaning your teeth difficult. You have to brush and floss around the wire and brackets. However, Invisalign aligners are removable. You have to remove them to eat so they don't break. Once you are done eating, you must clean your teeth before replacing them to avoid food getting trapped. This makes keeping your teeth clean during treatment a breeze, so you don't have to avoid certain foods or worry about decay.

Con: They Aren't Great for Severe Issues

Invisible braces are great with mild to moderately crooked or gapped teeth. The aligners are able to move these teeth apart or closer together slowly. However, they are not great for more severe overcrowding. Similarly, if you have rotated teeth, Invisalign likely can't help. Last, if you have a mismatched bite, such as an overbite, traditional braces are still your best choice.

Con: They Don't Work if You Don't Use Them

Being able to remove the aligners can also be a disadvantage. Any kind of braces can be painful because they are forcing your teeth to relocate. With traditional braces, however, you can't remove them. With invisible braces, it's too easy to remove them whenever your teeth feel a little uncomfortable. Unfortunately, the aligners must be in your mouth at least 20 hours a day or your results will be ineffective or slow.

Invisible braces make it possible for people to get a more beautiful smile without all the metal. However, they are not best for severe cases. If you would like more information regarding braces, contact an orthodontist in your area today.