Have you always wanted to show off a straighter smile? While there are several options out there, one of the most popular and reliable treatments is traditional braces. Although undergoing a discreet method seems more appealing, there are some cases where metal brackets and wires are the ideal solutions to correct your misalignment issues. Read on to learn four reasons you might benefit more from traditional braces compared to other options like Invisalign!
#1: Braces Require Fewer Everyday Responsibilities
Many patients like the thought of having removable braces. That said, that much freedom generally comes with more responsibility, especially for those with busier schedules or who are more forgetful. For the orthodontic treatment to work, you’ll need to have the discipline to wear your aligners for 20-22 hours every day, taking them out before eating or drinking anything (except for pure water). On the other hand, you won’t have to worry about any of these challenges with traditional braces, as they’ll be fixed on your teeth until your procedure is done.
#2: Eating Is Less of a Hassle with Braces
While you can munch on whatever favorite foods you want with Invisalign, braces will allow you to eat whenever you want. Clear aligners are typically fragile and can stain easily, so you’ll have to take them out before having a drink or meal other than unflavored water. After some time, it can become more of a hassle to eat your food, as you’ll also have to clean your teeth and clear braces once you’re done. With traditional braces, you’ll simply have to avoid certain sticky and hard foods that can damage or disrupt your treatment, such as lollipops, peanut brittle, and popcorn. However, they’re durable enough to handle a wide range of meals that you can enjoy at any time!
#3: You’re More Likely to Finish Treatment On Time
Unlike Invisalign treatment which requires you to meet a strict wear time, you’re more likely to complete your orthodontic process with traditional braces. As long as you keep up with good oral hygiene, avoid hard/sticky foods, refrain from bad oral habits, and visit your dentist for orthodontic checkups, you should finish your procedure on time. Clear aligners are much easier to damage or accidentally lose, which can quickly set you back on your treatment timeline.
#4: You Have Extensive Orthodontic Issues
Invisalign is effective for most orthodontic issues, but it won’t be able to address more complex misalignment problems like traditional braces. Here are some of the more complicated cases that can be addressed with metal brackets and wires:
- Teeth that need to be raised or lowered
- Significantly overcrowded or overlapping teeth
- Severe underbite, overbite, crossbite, or open bite
- Large gaps between teeth
- Rotated or extremely crooked teeth
If you’re ready to get your smile straightened in a reliable and timely manner, feel free to ask your dentist about orthodontic treatment. They’ll be glad to help determine if traditional braces are the ideal solution for you!
About the Author
Dr. Bradley Buchwald is an orthodontist who earned his dental doctorate from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine. He’s also a proud member of numerous organizations like the American Association of Orthodontists and the Texas Dental Association. He provides a wide variety of comprehensive and advanced services, including traditional braces. If you’d like to schedule a consultation, visit his website or call 972-377-5940.