Generally speaking, Invisalign and traditional braces can effectively straighten teeth and are similar in price. However, this is where the commonalities end. If you’re unsure whether to start a journey with Invisalign or traditional braces, continue reading. In this blog, we go over the three primary advantages that Invisalign has over metal braces.
Are you unsatisfied with how your smile looks? Don’t wait any longer. Schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Mina Levi right now. She can help you decide which teeth straightening method is the most suitable option for your alignment, goals, and lifestyle.
1. Superior Aesthetics
First of all, some people choose Invisalign instead of traditional braces because of this clear difference: aesthetics. Instead of the noticeable brackets and wires of conventional braces, Invisalign trays are composed of transparent, medical-grade plastic (known as “SmartTrack” material). Each aligner is contoured to the gum line for optimal comfort and a virtually invisible appearance.
In 2018, the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics (AJO-DO) published a survey measuring patient satisfaction and quality of life after using the Invisalign system. Through this study, researchers discovered that patients were highly satisfied with the treatment, especially in the appearance category. Additionally, appearance and dentofacial improvement were strongly correlated. So, this suggests that a patient may demonstrate more compliance with treatment when he or she is satisfied with aesthetics.
2. Food Freedom
Also, in the previously mentioned AJO-DO satisfaction survey, patients responded positively to their eating and chewing experiences with Invisalign. It’s no secret that braces come with dining restrictions, such as no chewy, crunchy, or sticky foods. Braces require a restricted diet because they cannot withstand certain chewing forces and are at risk of breaking.
On that note, we say, “pass the popcorn!” Fortunately, clear aligner trays are removable. Therefore, as long as Invisalign patients remove their trays before mealtime, they can eat virtually anything they want without risking damaging their aligners.
3. Better Oral Hygiene
BMC Oral Health published a cross-sectional study comparing the oral hygiene of patients with fixed oral appliances (braces) and the Invisalign system. Researchers concluded that patients treated with Invisalign have better periodontal (gum) health than those treated with fixed oral appliances.
Conveniently, oral hygiene routines remain virtually unchanged when patients decide to go with Invisalign. As previously stated, a significant advantage of clear aligners is that they are removable. This is especially helpful for daily, at-home dental cleaning because patients have direct access to their teeth, gums, and interdental spaces. Therefore, patients can stick to their habitual twice-daily brushing and flossing. In addition to regularly scheduled dental hygiene routines, we also suggest that patients clean their clear aligners with anti-bacterial soap and warm water daily.
On the other hand, a common complaint among braces wearers is that maintaining proper oral hygiene can be tricky. Brackets and wires attract food debris and plaque, so buildup is likely to happen. Without appropriate intervention, a shelf of buildup may form around the outside of the teeth over time, which makes it even more challenging to clean. Thankfully, brushing frequently and applying special tools (such as a Waterpik) can help keep teeth with braces clean.
See If You’re a Candidate for Invisalign in San Francisco
With this sophisticated system of transparent trays, Dr. Mina Levi prescribes Invisalign to correct a wide range of orthodontic issues. Start smiling with confidence and visit us at California Dental Innovations in San Francisco. Call (415) 513-5066 or conveniently book an appointment online today.
