Patients who decide to seek orthodontic treatments in Sherman Oaks, CA have more than just the choice of whether or not to get braces. You also must decide what type of braces are right for you. Two of the most common types are traditional metal braces or clear Invisalign braces. Both offer advantages and disadvantages, so in the end it’s a matter of choosing which meets your goals the most.
Appearance
Obviously, traditional metal braces are much more noticeable than clear braces. Even though advances have been made in metal braces to make them look less unsightly, some patients still don’t want to have a mouth full of shiny metal. On the other hand, some patients find it fun to select bright colors to customize their look to favorite shades or school spirit. Invisalign braces are made from clear plastic so that they are hardly visible. The main concern about appearance with Invisalign is learning how to remove the aligners carefully so that it’s not an unappealing process to take them out in front of other people.
Maintenance
Traditional braces are known to trap food debris in the brackets and wires, so it’s important to clean them properly. This not only looks better, but also helps avoid tooth decay. Brushing and rinsing with mouthwash are good ways to maintain traditional braces. Invisalign aligners can accumulate bacteria if not cleaned well, which is both unsanitary and stinky. The aligners should be removed and gently brushed as directed by your doctor, or sometimes a special cleaning solution is advised in addition to regular brushing.
Results
Both traditional and clear braces provide similar results for nearly all of the reasons that patients seek treatment. Traditional braces may have the advantage in correcting serious misalignments, but Invisalign is advancing to treat alignment problems also. Ask your dentist for recommendations about the best treatment for you.
