The Benefits of Invisalign vs. Metal Braces

Invisalign aligners or standard metal braces? - a question which deserves some serious consideration prior to making the choice between products. Pre-pubescent individuals are often the first to taunt those with braces. The effects to self-esteem can be long-lasting, but name-calling is not limited to the "terrible teens." Even adults can be pegged with names like "metal mouth," "railroad tracks" or "brace face," just to name a few. Also, many adults often find that they are not taken seriously in the workplace because of their new, tinselly smile.

While the standard braces are readily visible, the Invisalign aligners, as the name implies, are virtually invisible to others and therefore, reduce the probability of name-calling. But, name-calling aside, it may be comfort and the overall health benefits that make Invisalign a more-ideal choice.

Invisalign aligners are custom fit to the patient's mouth with the aid of a 3-D plan of the entire treatment timeline. They are changed dependent upon the amount of the correction necessary. Since there are no metal braces or brackets involved and the process is very gradual, there is very little, if any, pain involved.

Standard braces involve metal and a compression process which can be quite painful. Getting used to the braces and brackets can cause sore areas in the mouth and gums. Special wax may need to be applied to these ulcerated areas. Invisalign technology now allows for straight teeth without all of the pain and hassle of its metal counterpart.

Hygiene is a very important factor in the decision-making process. In comparison, Invisalign Aligners are removed while eating where standard braces and brackets must remain in place at all times. Braces and brackets leave many nooks and crannies were food and plaque can be difficult to remove causing the possibility of tooth decay and tooth discoloration. In order to maintain good oral hygiene with braces, the wearer must use a special toothbrush, an oral irrigator, and a fluoride mouth rinse to strengthen the enamel and repair microscopic cavities. In the case of the Invisalign aligners, the wearer must merely brush and floss after eating prior to putting the aligners back in.

Sports activities can also pose a threat for the wearers of metal braces. When engaging in contact sports, the individual must be custom fit with a mouth guard. In the event of facial impact without protective gear, the braces and brackets can cause serious damage to the lips and gums and possibly cause permanent tooth damage. Commercial versions of mouth guards can leave room for gaps and therefore a greater chance for mouth injury.

True - metal braces might be slightly more affordable, but they come with a higher cost to self-esteem and overall health. Invisalign has saved many from both physical and emotional discomfort, and adding in improved oral-hygiene health, Invisalign gives plenty of reasons for wearers to show off their beautiful new smile.