If you are in search for braces, then you are not alone. Braces seems to be everyone’s request these days, and with great cause. Social media standards have changed the way people view their appearance, their clothes and of course their smiles. With that change came a change in paradigm when it comes to braces. 20 years ago, braces were almost strictly for children, but not anymore. However, traditional metallic braces still have their inconveniences, and so most people – especially adults – are searching for newer and more esthetic options to straighten their teeth. These options include clear braces, lingual braces, and Invisalign. So we’re here to answer a very important question for those of you out there who are willing to take the plunge: Clear braces vs Invisalign: Which is best for me?
What are clear braces?
Clear braces were the first innovation in the field of esthetic orthodontics. They are more or less the same as traditional metallic braces. The same brackets, wires and elastics are placed on your teeth, only the brackets are made of a clear ceramic material rather than metal, the wire is coated with a white covering to mask its color, and the elastics are also colorless. They work the same way as metal braces, only better looking.
What is Invisalign?
A newer innovation in the field of esthetic braces. No brackets, wires or elastics are involved. Instead, Invisalign uses a number of clear transparent and virtually invisible molds called aligners. When you wear the aligners on your teeth, they apply pressure to move the teeth to the needed location.
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Clear braces vs Invisalign: Which is best for me?
Now that you know how both types work, all you need to do is select the type that suits you most. So here is a simple comparison between the two types in a number of important points:
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Appearance:
No doubt clear braces are much better looking than metal braces, but the appearance of Invisalign is incomparable. The aligners stick to the surface of the teeth making them all but invisible.
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Comfort:
While clear braces solved the appearance problem, it didn’t address many others, including comfort. The brackets cut and scrape against the soft tissues causing ulcers and bruises. None of that happens with Invisalign since the aligners are made of higly polished plastic.
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Control:
Invisalign is entirely computer made. This gives it superior accuracy and no chance of human errors. However, the orthodontist has no control of the treatment or the outcomes. This is the reason why orthodontist prefer the fixed types of braces, including clear braces.
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Oral hygiene:
As with any type of fixed braces, oral hygiene with clear braces is difficult to say the least. Brushing is tricky, and flossing is impossible. On the other hand, cleaning your teeth with Invisalign is a breeze. All you have to do is remove the aligner, brush and floss, and place it right back with no hassle.
When it comes to selecting the best type of braces for you, there is no correct answer. Each type has its pros and cons, and you need to select what suits you best.