According to the America Dental Association, over 5 million people, including 1 million teens, have used Invisalign’s clear aligners to straighten their teeth. Traditional braces and Invisalign help improve the appearance of your smile, but which treatment is right for you? Let’s look at both options to help you make up your mind.

Traditional Braces

Suppose you are looking for an option that helps promote overall oral health. In that case, traditional braces are an excellent choice because they require diligent oral hygiene habits that will last into adulthood. The metal brackets hold wires against the top and bottom rows of teeth, slowly moving them into place over time.

Traditional braces now come in various colors and patterns to be as discreet or as bold as you want them to be. You can even start a fashion trend with unique crystal designs on the bands.

Invisalign Aligners

Invisalign offers an alternative to traditional braces. With Invisalign, nearly invisible aligners are worn over teeth for six weeks each. Each set of aligners is designed to gradually straighten your teeth until you reach your ideal smile. This option does not rely on brackets and wires to hold the aligners in place during treatment, which, makes brushing and flossing much simpler because users do not have to worry about getting their aligners wet or interrupting the treatment process while cleaning their teeth.

There is no specific age limit for either type of braces. Generally, your orthodontist will determine the best treatment option based on various criteria. One is the severity and complexity of your case, i.e., how crooked or misaligned your teeth are. Invisalign are less intrusive than their metal counterparts, making them ideal for individuals who want faster treatment without enduring the discomforts of traditional braces.

It is important to note that you can take your aligners out to eat certain foods, but traditional braces are better for anyone who wants to avoid taking their retainers out for meals. Despite these differences, both options are proven to help get you the smile of your dreams. You can learn more about both treatments by contacting the friendly team at Nowlin Orthodontics today!