Why Choose Invisalign® Clear Aligners: Clear vs. Metal Braces

People have been in search of straight, healthy teeth for centuries. Sometime in the 1800s, dentists started making advancements in the production of appliances to adjust teeth alignment. These early treatments were derived from metal and, for much of the next century and a half, this material remained unchanged while the design and use of braces developed.

Metal braces have been improved upon, as orthodontists transitioned from using gold and silver to more cost-effective stainless steel. But within the past decade, the demand for more aesthetically pleasing braces expanded patients’ options. Most popular among these brands is Invisalign, a system of clear, tray-based orthodontics.

If you wish to obtain a straighter smile, consider how you can benefit from this aesthetic option by comparing it to systems of metal orthodontics:

The Old Reliable: Metal Bracket-and-Wire Systems

Many dentists and orthodontists continue to work with metal braces, as the product is dependable and effective. Among patients, the most common motivator to choose metal braces is that they are typically an affordable option, but cost depends on the extent of their needs. 

For children, metal braces are often the default choice. Kids typically lack the discipline to wear and use removable braces with consistency, and the complex bite issues that can manifest as children’s teeth develop are usually best treated with braces.

Inconspicuous and Modern: Invisalign Clear Braces

In the late 20th Century, advancements in orthodontic technology expanded in ways to make braces inconspicuous. While braces with plastic brackets were attempted, they lacked the durability to be instituted as a regular treatment method. Invisalign braces then emerged, combining the function of a retainer with the cosmetic benefits of acrylic. This way, wearers could fix their alignment without the permanence and prominence of metal wires and brackets. 

For many patients, the cost of braces matches the cost of their removable aligner treatment. This is especially alluring if you are dealing with only minor to moderate alignment issues and the idea of full braces to correct that problem feels like over kill. Invisalign is often ideal for adult patients whose lifestyles and careers would be hampered by the visibility of metal braces. As they are highly discreet and removable, Invisalign makes it easy to align teeth without forcing wearers to compromise on their diet and oral health routines.

Invisalign clear braces do not have the same range of use as metal braces.. But for those with the most widespread and common dental issues, Invisalign provides a cosmetic and functional treatment.
If you’re wondering whether Invisalign is right for you, contact Drs. Steven and Michelle Okamoto for your clear braces consultation at their Torrance dental office.

Is Invisalign® Right for Me?

Choosing orthodontic treatment to achieve the smile you want is an important one. Will your treatment plan meet your expectations? Will your appliances be comfortable? In considering braces, you’ve likely done research on options and thought about more cosmetic options, like Invisalign®. But how can you be sure that this treatment is right for you?

Determining Severity of Alignment Problems

The first step is to schedule a consultation with our Invisalign® dentists to determine if the issues you’re experiencing can be effectively corrected with clear braces. Invisalign® is ideal for treating minor to moderate problems that include:

• Teeth alignment relapse after an initial round of braces
• Tilted and twisted teeth
• Minor crowding
• Small gaps between teeth

Patients with severe bite problems, such as crossbite, open bite, or underbite may be better suited for traditional metal braces, or metal braces with more aesthetic components such as tooth-colored brackets and wires. However, Invisalign® is well-suited for the most common issues patients experience, as described above.

Adapting to Treatment

Getting used to Invisalign® isn’t much of a challenge compared to adapting to life with metal braces. This can include diet restrictions, more difficult teeth cleaning routines, and soft tissue discomfort; however, there are some tips to keep in mind. It’s important to keep your Invisalign® someplace safe while they’re not in-place. The aligners are meant to be removed during meals and before brushing and flossing teeth, and can therefore be misplaced if patients aren’t careful. Store your trays in their provided cases.

To keep your aligners clean, use a soft bristled toothbrush to sweep away bacteria and debris before putting them back in place. After meals, it’s also a good idea to thoroughly clean teeth, so that food particles do not become trapped on and between teeth throughout the day. Avoid using toothpaste while cleaning retainers to prevent scratching. Do not bite, chew, or otherwise play with the retainers when they’re in place so they don’t become warped and ineffective in re-aligning teeth.

Still Debating? Ask us about Clear Braces

If you have a question about whether you’re a candidate for Invisalign®, contact our office today to learn more about this treatment for achieving straighter teeth.