Although Invisalign and traditional metal braces treat many of the same problems, these two options can be quite different. How? That’s a great question. Find out in this blog, as the team at Camellia Orthodontics goes over five of the biggest differences between braces and Invisalign.
1. APPEARANCE
One of the most obvious differences between Lafayette Invisalign and traditional braces is their appearance. Traditional braces use metal brackets, bands, and wires to align your smile.
In contrast, Invisalign uses clear, thin, plastic “aligners” that are almost invisible when worn. Therefore, if you’re looking for a more subtle way to correct your smile that won’t affect your appearance, Invisalign is a great choice.
2. COMFORT
Overall, many patients find that Invisalign is more comfortable than traditional metal braces. Braces use wires to straighten your teeth, and you may sometimes feel a poking wire. Invisalign uses “attachments,” which are little pieces of white resin that are bonded to your teeth during treatment (these are removed once you finish). The aligners, which are made of plastic, fit nicely over your teeth and attachments. This results in a smooth, comfortable feel.
3. CARE & CLEANING
Caring for your smile is easier with Invisalign, since you can remove your aligners to brush and floss. You can also take them out to eat and drink, so there are minimal dietary restrictions.
However, you will have to take some additional steps to keep your aligners clean and remove bacteria buildup, such as rinsing them before putting them into your mouth.
4. COMPLIANCE & EFFECTIVENESS OF TREATMENT
Compliance plays a huge role in the success of your treatment. In general, orthodontic treatment requires compliance on the part of the patient – whether you’re in braces or Invisalign. When it comes to clear aligner therapy, you should wear your aligners for at least 22 hours per day. This gives you enough time to eat your meals and brush/floss while ensuring that you move efficiently through your treatment.
5. RETENTION
Maintaining results for braces vs. Invisalign is the same. If your teeth are not retained in their final position, they will tend to shift. For this reason, after your treatment is done, you will need to get retainers made. Lafayette orthodontist, Dr. Bozner, and the team at Camellia Orthodontics will guide you through the proper retention care for your smile so that you can keep your smile looking great for a lifetime.
INTERESTED IN INVISALIGN IN LAFAYETTE OR OPELOUSAS? CONTACT US TODAY!
At Camellia Orthodontics, we specialize in all types of orthodontic treatment in Lafayette and Opelousas. If you’re interested in getting a straighter smile with Invisalign, Dr. Bozner is here for you. Give us a call at (337) 291-9141 (Lafayette) or (337) 948-3491 (Opelousas), or contact us online to schedule an orthodontic consultation with Dr. Diana Bozner.