Braces vs. Invisalign®– Finding the Perfect Fit for You


The debate between braces and Invisalign® can be tricky without the proper information. Both orthodontic treatments have several benefits, and ultimately, both work to give your child that perfect, straight-toothed smile, but where do they differ? It’s extremely important to take care of both, whether they have Invisalign® or braces.

 

Braces vs. Invisalign® Treatment

Braces sit on the surface of your teeth in the form of metal or resin brackets. In the case where you need more intense orthodontic care, braces will be more beneficial. Braces require a few more trips to the orthodontist, but they work a little faster when trying to straighten teeth or close any gaps in the teeth.

Invisalign®, on the other hand, is a custom-made, computer-generated treatment. This form of braces is often considered due to its clear composition, leaving patients more confident in their progressing smile. Due to the wire and brace-free wear, Invisalign® is typically more comfortable than regular braces. The treatment is also typically shorter than braces, depending on the case, and requires very few visits.

There are several ways the two treatments differ, but many of the differences lie in the self-care category. Since braces are permanent, unlike Invisalign®, they are treated much differently.

 

Taking Care of Braces

Braces require a little more care when it comes to cleaning. It is very easy for things to get stuck in your braces, which is why they come with more restrictions. You and your child must be prepared for the tedious care braces require.

  • Try to brush your teeth after every meal. This ensures the removal of stuck food particles and helps to avoid more dental problems.
  • Make sure to take off any rubber bands before brushing.
  • Floss (with specialized threader floss) at least once a day to really make sure no food particles get left behind.
  • Rinse with water and mouthwash to rinse out any leftover food particles and to kill bacteria.
  • Avoid foods hard, sticky, and chewy foods. These can get stuck in your braces and teeth, and are very hard to remove. Crunchy foods like pretzels or popcorn can even break your wire!
  • If you play a sport, wear a mouthguard! This will help to avoid any damage to the braces and other oral injuries.
  • Follow your orthodontists’ instructions! This means wearing your rubber bands as assigned if told to.

 

Taking Care of Invisalign®

Cleaning Invisalign® tends to be a little easier than braces due to the removable trays, but it isn’t any less important. It is crucial to keep your trays clean to keep them clear, odorless, and germ-free. If not taken care of, they can become discolored and build up plaque and bacteria, which in turn can cause enamel damage.

  • They must be rinsed EVERY time they are taken out of your mouth. Doing this ensures being rinsed of food, bacteria, and other particles.
  • Clean your teeth! This means brushing and flossing regularly.
  • Brush your aligners regularly, as well. You should be brushing them every time you remove or put them back in, but be sure to be gentle with them.
  • Make sure to regularly soak the trays. Invisalign® provides you with special cleaning supplies for this.
  • Use a clear, antibacterial soft soap to keep your aligners clean.
  • Do NOT eat with your aligners in!
  • Do NOT use toothpaste to clean them!
  • Do NOT use colored and/or scented soap– this could stain them.
  • Be sure not to misplace your trays or their case.

Disclaimer: Invisalign® is only as effective as you make it. Since you have the ability to remove it yourself, you must make sure you are wearing as needed (usually 22 hours a day). Not wearing as directed can lead to shifts in your teeth, which may cause the aligners not to fit properly or as comfortably.

It is very important that your child follows these tips, depending on which treatment they have, to ensure no unnecessary trips to the orthodontist. For more information regarding either, contact us at (201) 871-3555 or check out the information on our website here!

 

Schedule your child’s checkup today!  Call us at 201-871-3556 or click here to connect with us online


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