Most orthodontic concerns like crooked teeth, cross-bite, overbite, and underbite can be addressed using either traditional metal braces or clear aligners. There are some key differences between addressing orthodontic concerns with traditional braces vs. with clear aligners.
Learn why patients prefer clear aligners as a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces below.
How Metal Braces Work
Traditional metal braces utilize a system of brackets and wires that are firmly secured to your dental structures for the entire duration of your treatment plan. Orthodontic treatment of any kind will take many months or even years to complete, so patients should keep in mind the lifestyle adjustments they will need to make while undergoing treatment with traditional metal braces.
With traditional metal braces, patients are encouraged to avoid excessively crunchy or sticky foods that may cause damage to the orthodontic hardware. Additionally, patients with traditional metal braces must take additional oral hygiene precautions to ensure that no food residue is caught in the orthodontic hardware following meals. This treatment option requires monthly visits to the orthodontist’s office to tighten the wires and keep pressure on your teeth so that they continue to move into a straighter position.
If you are unwilling to abide by dietary restrictions, are concerned about the oral hygiene hazards associated with this treatment options, and want to avoid spending more time than necessary in the dental chair, clear aligners are an excellent alternative to consider.
The Benefits of Clear Aligners
Unlike traditional metal braces, clear aligners are removable and completely see-through. Aligners made of durable plastic are crafted specifically for you and your smile. Your dentist will give you all of your sets of aligners upfront and instruct you on how often to change to a new set.
The aligners are worn over your teeth similar to a retainer. Over time, the aligners will gradually apply pressure and encourage your teeth to shift into a straighter position. People will not be able to tell that you are undergoing orthodontic treatment unless you remove the aligners in front of them. Patients are encouraged to remove their aligners before eating, drinking, or brushing their teeth.
This allows patients with clear aligners to maintain their dietary preferences without worrying about damaging any orthodontic hardware. Additionally, the aligners are easy to clean and do not require additional oral hygiene precautions. Patients love clear aligners as opposed to traditional metal braces because they offer many quality-of-life benefits while still providing beautiful results.
Invisalign in Frederick, MD
Ready to straighten your smile and address bite misalignment concerns? We offer Invisalign in our Frederick, MD dentist office. If you are looking for a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces, schedule an appointment with Frederick Center for Dentistry to begin your Invisalign journey. We look forward to seeing you soon.