Unfortunately, human teeth do not always grow straight. Sometimes they are crooked, have gaps, or need to be aligned. Over the years, dentistry has struggled to correct these problems, but the usual solution has always been braces. Despite the many inconveniences associated with them, braces are an effective way to straighten teeth. However, there is a relatively new alternative called "Invisalign", and many people want to know about that as well.
How Do Braces Work?
Braces work in the same way that a cast or a splint works.
They force the teeth to grow in one direction using small steel pieces. Anchors
are usually glued to the teeth, and the wires or bands are then attached to
these. While this process is very unpleasant and uncomfortable, it does get the
job done. Over time, the pressure provided by the metal bands will push the
teeth in the right direction.
This method is most often used for pediatric dentistry, and that is because it works by directing the growth of the teeth. Thus, it is most practical to use this method while a person is young and their teeth are still growing. Obviously, you have to wait until those baby teeth are gone, as there would be no point in straightening those.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign is a much different kind of technology. It does work like braces, as it does work through the
application of pressure. However, with Invisalign, there are no uncomfortable
pieces of steel involved. Everything is done using rigid plastic shells that
fit over the teeth. These are made by taking an impression of your teeth, so
each one has to be custom-made. The dentist uses putty to make an impression of
your teeth, which is then used to make the shells.
When you opt for Invisalign, you don't just get one plastic cover. You get a series of them, each one designed to push your teeth a little closer to the goal. The idea is to gradually reshape your teeth in stages. Thus, when one shell is no longer feeling tight and snug, you will switch to the next one. These shells are also called "retainers." The whole thing is planned out using advanced software and has proven to be quite effective.
Which One Is Cheaper?
Right off the bat, you should be thinking about which of
these options is cheaper. Unfortunately, it isn't always easy to tell. Due to
advances in 3D printing technology, Invisalign is not necessarily going to be
more expensive than braces. In fact, it can sometimes be cheaper.
It is hard to predict these things because both braces and Invisalign are used as a part of treatment plans, and these dental treatment plans must be tailored to the individual. However, in most cases, the cost difference between braces and Invisalign is a small one.
Which One Is More Convenient?
Invisalign is definitely the more convenient choice of the two. Unlike braces, these plastic shells can be removed for eating, drinking, or any other activity. Besides that, braces are not exactly the best-looking things in the world. The plastic Invisalign retainers, however, are nearly invisible. If someone doesn't know you have them, they are unlikely to be noticed. There are dental offices in Chicago, for example, that specialize in these treatments.
Braces Are A Simpler Solution
Braces might be better for those who do not have the personal discipline for Invisalign. With the latter, you must have the discipline to put those retainers back in place whenever they are not in use. If you leave them out for too long, your teeth will go back to their original state and you will have wasted your time and money. So, although Invisalign has several distinct advantages, braces do at least offer a few upsides.
Conclusion
In the end, wearing a plastic retainer is much easier than
dealing with a bunch of metal in your mouth. Metal braces will sometimes even
develop sharp points that must be blunted with wax (also not pleasant).
However, we would still recommend braces for those who are simply unable to
maintain discipline and keep their retainers in place. Either way, we hope that
we have answered all of your questions.
