A world of options to straighten misaligned teeth: A guide to Invisalign® clear aligners vs traditional braces
Individuals in London, Ontario, and beyond have more options than ever before to straighten their crowded, gapped, crooked, and otherwise misaligned teeth. At We Smile Dentistry, Dr. Giulio Spagnuolo offers both “traditional” bracket and wire orthodontics (braces) as well as clear aligner treatment (Invisalign®). To us, one treatment option is not “better” than the other. We work closely with our valued patients to recommend the most appropriate treatment based on factors not limited to the nature and severity of their malocclusion or misalignment.
Invisalign® vs Braces
We like to say that Invisalign® treatment is not any better (nor any faster) than braces. But it is different. We are happy to provide a glimpse into some of these differences.
Braces are made up of wires that are threaded through brackets. These brackets attach to the teeth. Once the brackets are applied, O-rings or thin elastic bands are applied to place additional pressure on the teeth. It is this system’s force that gradually repositions the teeth. Braces are also “fixed” to the teeth. So, they cannot be removed by anyone else but the dentist or orthodontist. During regular check-ins, the braces are adjusted by tightening the wires. This process advances treatment forward.
Actual Patient Results
Invisalign® uses a series of clear aligners to place consistent force on the teeth. Here again, this force moves the teeth, bit by bit, throughout treatment. The clear aligners themselves resemble oral appliances like retainers.
They are customized to fit your mouth perfectly. The aligners are also made from a transparent, smooth, and flexible thermoplastic. They slip into the mouth and are worn at all times, every day, except when eating or when cleaning either the aligners or your teeth.
As a removable option, patients do not need to learn how to clean around their oral appliance. They also do not need to use special products to aid in cleaning hardware or to support comfort. While there is an adjustment period with both Invisalign® and braces, due to the precise and unique design of the aligners, treatment with them is generally comfortable and well-tolerated. Patients get used to the feeling of aligners in their mouths quite quickly. And, of course, we are always available to answer any questions and address or ease any concerns.
Patients who are appropriate candidates appreciate that Invisalign® is:
- Discreet, barely visible when you smile due to the aligners being made from a clear, advanced plastic
- Supports optimal oral health throughout treatment because hassle-free oral hygiene is promoted due to the removable nature of the aligners
- As effective as braces for the right patients
- Easy and hassle-free, simply wear the aligners at all times (except when brushing, flossing, and eating); wear each aligner in the correct order; and maintain periodic appointments at our office in London, Ontario
Phone We Smile Dentistry at (226) 605-0042 to schedule your Invisalign® consultation. During your visit, Dr. Spagnuolo can even show you how your teeth will look after treatment.
We use advanced software to transform impressions or scans of your mouth into three-dimensional models and virtual simulations of the teeth repositioning process. So, you get to “try” before you “buy”!
