The two main options for straightening crooked teeth are Invisalign and traditional braces. Either option can treat misaligned teeth, but they do have some differences worth noting. Dr. Mulandi may recommend one of these treatment options for patients who have would like to have straighter, more even teeth. When your teeth are not arranged properly, it can make you self-conscious and reluctant to laugh and smile. When teeth are misaligned, they are also harder to keep clean. Your Conway dentist may recommend Invisalign or braces. While they do the same job, there are some distinct differences.
What are Invisalign and Braces
For many years, braces were the only option for straightening teeth. Patients at Eastern Slope Dental had metal brackets attached to each of their teeth. Then the brackets were connected by a tight wire. They had to come in periodically for Dr. Mulandi to adjust the wire so that the pressure was right for gently moving the teeth into alignment. Just a few years ago, Invisalign came on the scene as an alternative to traditional braces. Instead of wires and brackets, clear plastic aligners were used to help realign teeth. Patients are given a series of aligners to be worn sequentially.
Key Differences Between Braces and Invisalign
Either of these tools helps straighten teeth, but they are very different for the user. Dr. Mulandi can discuss them both with you and help you choose which one is the better choice for you. Here are some of the general differences:
Shape and Color
Braces use wires and brackets that are very noticeable. They are easily seen when you are talking or smiling. Invisalign uses clear and transparent trays that are not as noticeable. Many times, others won’t even know you have the aligner on.
Installation
The installation of braces has to be done by your Conway dentist. It is a lengthy process as each bracket has to be glued to the teeth. They are then fastened using wire and rubber bands. Invisalign, on the other hand, is easily placed by the user. Trays are installed and removed according to the schedule Dr. Mulandi provides.
Cleaning and Care
The shapes and applications of braces and Invisalign differ greatly. That means the way you clean your teeth will be different as well. Wearing braces can make it difficult to clean your teeth. Food can get stuck in the braces and be very difficult to remove. Aligners are removable making it easy to care for your teeth. Just remove the aligner, then brush and floss your teeth normally. After you’ve completed your daily oral hygiene routine, put the aligner back in so it can continue doing its job.
Treatment and Duration
For patients who wear traditional braces, there are frequent trips to see Dr. Mulandi to tighten the wire and change out the bands. You can count on at least one trip to your Conway dentist every month for an adjustment. For most patients, braces will need to be worn between two and three years.
Invisalign treatment will not require frequent visits to see your Conway dentist. The device remains in place for 20 to 22 hours each day. It can be removed while eating and for oral hygiene. Dr. Mulandi will provide a series of trays that need to be replaced every two weeks. Checkups at the dental office will be every four to six weeks. Depending on the severity of the movement required, and Invisalign aligners are usually worn for six to 18 months.
Contact Your Conway Dentist
If you are considering braces or you feel your teen or tween may need help realigning teeth, contact Dr. Mulandi. After a thorough examination, he can recommend braces or Invisalign. He can answer any questions you have and suggest the most effective treatment option. Schedule your exam today!
