Invisalign vs Braces in Martinez, CA

Invisalign vs. Braces at Artesa Dental of Martinez 

From invisible treatment options to traditional braces, call Artesa Dental at 925-370-9900 for quality care today!

If you’re tired of avoiding looking into the mirror or clamping your lips shut to hide your teeth during photos, it’s time for a change. Many people hide their smiles behind their hands when laughing. If this sounds like you, it may be time you looked into a teeth-correcting solution to give you your confidence back. 

Artesa Dental of Martinez will assist you in finding the proper treatment for your condition. If you’re looking for straightening dental equipment, Dr. Amanda Backstrom, DMD, and her team will discuss Invisalign vs. braces and which is right for you. 

INVISALIGN VS. BRACES: WHICH ONE IS BETTER

Many patients want to turn to Invisalign immediately because of its discretion. The clear aligners are virtually invisible, straightening your teeth without the help of obvious dental equipment. However, you must discuss your condition and preferences with your dentist to determine whether you require braces or Invisalign. 

Invisibility

Many people prefer the transparent trays to the metal braces and wires that attract attention. Braces use thick wires and bulky brackets that adhere to each tooth. Not only is there an adjustment period for getting used to the braces, but they may give you another reason not to smile for a while.  

However, visibility is not a turnoff for everyone. Younger patients tend to appreciate choosing from the colorful rubber bands during each visit to match their mood, favorite colors, or upcoming holidays. While it’s not a uniform preference among all children, many may opt for it. 

Better Oral Hygiene 

No one wants to sacrifice the health of their teeth for appearance. However, sometimes braces can jeopardize the strength of your teeth and gums. The main cause for this is the inability to reach certain parts of your tooth’s surface under the brackets when you are brushing. 

When you brush your teeth, braces deter the bristles from properly cleaning plaque, buildup, and food particles around the brackets. What’s more, the thick wires spanning your entire upper and lower rows of teeth prevent proper flossing. While you can use a smaller brush to get around the braces, and your dentist will teach you an alternative way to floss, your oral hygiene is at a higher risk. 

With Invisalign, patients have the luxury of removing their trays to clean their teeth. However, keep in mind that cleaning the aligners is just as important for hygiene, which includes: 

• Gently removing bacteria with a soft toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleanser 
• Soaking the plastic aligners in water mixed with an aligner cleaner

While this is necessary, many patients forget to take this step or cut down on how often they do it. 

Fewer Limitations on Food

The debate on Invisalign vs. braces also extends to what you’re able to consume during treatment. After your orthodontist places braces on your teeth, they’ll most likely give you a list of foods and snacks that you should avoid. By following the list, you’re keeping the wire from snapping, the brackets from cracking, and the adhesive from loosening. 

These threats include:

• Popcorn
• Nuts
• Ice 
• Raw fruits and vegetables (cook them or cut them into smaller pieces)
• Chewy meat
• Gum 

For some, giving up their favorite snacks is not an option, and opt for Invisalign. For others with braces who cave for their favorites, the mechanism can break, causing treatment time to last longer. 

Still, the removability of the trays can cause treatment time to extend as well. For the aligners to work effectively, you must wear them for 22 hours a day. However, many patients take off their aligners and forget to put them back on, affecting their overall treatment plan. 

Fewer Visits to Your Orthodontist 

The length of your treatment period isn’t the only time factor in the Invisalign vs. braces debate. Making the time to visit your orthodontist for routine checkups can affect your work or personal schedule. While braces may require you to make monthly visits to your orthodontist, Invisalign doesn’t consist of regular follow-ups. 

Although you change your trays every two weeks, you can do that from home, leaving visits for occasional progress checks. 

Other Benefits of Invisalign 

The benefits of Invisalign don’t stop there. They also include:

• Comfort
• Affordability
• Less time for post-treatment 

Artesa Dental of Martinez

Contact us to discuss which is a better option for your teeth, Invisalign or braces. At Artesa Dental of Martinez, located in Martinez, CA, we’ll assist you with the Invisalign vs. braces debate. Call 925-370-9900 for a consultation today!