If you’re considering straightening your teeth, here’s a few of the differences between two popular orthodontic procedures – Invisalign and traditional braces.
Invisalign
Invisalign works by gradually adjusting the alignment of your teeth using a series of clear, flexible plastic trays, called aligners, that blend in with your teeth and are very discreet. Your Braintree dentist Dr. Michael Kacewicz designs these trays for each patient using a combination of x-rays and digital “impressions” taken with a tiny camera. As the teeth move into position, the aligner is switched out for the next one in the series to continue the process. The Invisalign treatment takes between nine and fifteen months.
Traditional braces
Braces consist of metal brackets that are affixed to the surface of the teeth. Semi-rigid wires connect each bracket and need to be adjusted every month by your Braintree orthodontist Dr. Kacewicz in order to move the teeth to their proper location in the mouth.
Which One is Right For Me?
Both Invisalign and traditional braces aim for the same results – to straighten your smile. Which one you choose will depend on a variety of circumstances, the first and foremost being how involved the process of straightening your teeth will be. Invisalign is designed for people who have mild to moderate crookedness or overlapping. Those with severe crowding, gaps or rotation of the teeth may be better suited for traditional braces. If your appearance is a concern, your Braintree dentist may suggest “clear” or ceramic braces; the wires and brackets are tooth-colored and less noticeable.
Invisalign trays are removable, so they can be taken out while eating, drinking, brushing or flossing. However, for best results, the dentists at George Salem & Associates advise their Braintree patients to wear the aligners between 20 and 22 hours per day. This may not be the best route for children or young teens, as Invisalign requires a fair amount of self-discipline and the aligners could become misplaced easily.
Regardless of which type of braces you use, you can be assured that the dental team at George Salem and Associates will provide you with outstanding service and satisfying results.