A straight, beautiful smile is a dream for many. Orthodontic treatment has become a popular solution, whether due to misaligned teeth or bite issues. Two of the most popular options are removable clear aligners (Like Invisalign, Zenyum, ClearCorrect) and traditional braces (fixed).
Teeth Straightening: Invisalign vs Braces
Clear aligners (like Invisalign, Zenyum, ClearCorrect), consists of a series of custom-made trays that gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. These clear aligners are designed to be virtually invisible.
On the other hand, traditional braces involve brackets bonded/cemented to your teeth and connected by wires. The wires exert pressure to guide the teeth into alignment.
Many instantly find clear aligners more appealing than traditional braces, but it’s best practice to scrutinise their pros and cons.
More Details on Clear Aligners
To help you decide whether clear aligners (like Invisalign, Zenyum, ClearCorrect) are better for you for teeth straightening, please consider the following pros and cons:
Pros:
- Aesthetics: Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, making them a discreet option for those concerned about appearance.
- Removable: You can remove the aligners while eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, promoting oral hygiene and convenience.
- Comfort: The smooth plastic aligners generally cause less irritation to the cheeks and gums than metal braces.
Cons:
- Discipline: The success of Invisalign relies heavily on wearing the aligners nearly full-time.
- Not Suitable for Complex Cases: Invisalign might not be effective for severe misalignment or bite issues as they cannot always effectively move the roots of the tooth.
- Cost: Clear aligners are often more expensive than traditional metal braces. In Singapore, Invisalign prices can go as high as S$9,500.
Traditional Braces: Why They Are The Common Orthodontic Options
There are reasons why, despite the benefits of clear aligners, many people still choose traditional braces for teeth straightening. Here’s more information on their pros and cons.
Pros:
- Effective for Complex Cases: Fixed traditional braces can correct many orthodontic problems, including severe misalignment and bite issues. They can control both crown and root movement precisely.
- Cost-Effective: Traditional braces are generally more affordable than Invisalign. On average, they may cost S$3,5000 to S$5,000.
- Reliability: Fixed traditional braces offer a tried-and-true method with a proven track record.
Cons:
- Aesthetics: Fixed traditional braces, especially metal ones, are visible and can affect image-conscious individuals.
- Discomfort: The brackets and wires can irritate the cheeks and gums, and adjustments can cause temporary soreness.
- Oral Hygiene: Maintaining oral hygiene can be more challenging with braces due to the brackets and wires hindering brushing and flossing.
Clear Aligners vs Traditional Braces,: How to Choose What’s Best For You
The best option for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following factors:
- Severity of Misalignment: Fixed traditional braces might be a better choice if your case is complex. It’s not a good idea to spend more on clear aligners and only resort to metal braces afterwards because the results are not optimal.
- Lifestyle and Discipline: Clear aligners (like Invisalign, Zenyum, ClearCorrect) could be suitable if you value discretion and are confident in your ability to wear aligners consistently.
- Budget: Traditional braces are usually more budget-friendly.
- Treatment Time Frame: Reports say clear aligners (like Invisalign, Zenyum, ClearCorrect) treatment can be completed within six months, which is longer for more complex cases. However, it wouldn’t usually last three years, which is the typical time it takes for traditional braces.
Conclusion
Clear aligners (like Invisalign, Zenyum, ClearCorrect) and fixed traditional braces both offer practical solutions for achieving a straighter smile. Invisalign’s discreteness and removability are appealing, while metal braces are reliable and suitable for complex cases. Weighing the pros and cons, considering your individual needs, and consulting with an orthodontist will make you the most suitable choice for your orthodontic journey.
References:
Clear Aligner Therapy: The Discreet Way to Straighten Teeth | American Association of Orthodontists, https://aaoinfo.org/whats-trending/clear-aligner-therapy/
Braces: Types & How They Work, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24601-teeth-braces
Metal braces: Uses, costs, benefits, and more, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/metal-braces-uses-costs-benefits-and-more-2#metal-braces-vs-invisalign
