subject: Should You Avoid Invisalign For Teeth Alignment? [print this page] When you think about orthodontics and which treatment might be the best for you, clear plastic braces are one consideration; clear braces differ from the more traditional metal braces, in five main ways. Each will be discussed below.
Cost and Length of Treatment The use of metal braces takes an average of two and a half years to complete treatment. The modern system can work a bit faster than metal braces, taking an average of one and a half years to complete, though this will depend on how diligent you are with your hygiene and treatment regimen.
As to cost, metal braces and both depend on the extent and length of treatment needed. Typically, for the same treatment, clear braces will cost more because of the special technology fees and lab fees involved in designing the treatment. For braces, US national averages are about $3500, while clear braces costs are about $4500. You can get a more accurate estimate after you meet with your orthodontist.
Both of these treatments utilize payment and insurance plan options that may be available to you. Your orthodontist may also offer financing to you for these treatments.
Types of Treatment 'Invisible' braces can be a good option for those needing mild to moderate correctional treatment, but 'invisible' braces cannot correct the severe bite and jaw problems that braces can.
If the patient has not lost all of his or her baby teeth or is younger, such as for children and teenagers, metal braces are generally better; because children's facial and jaw bones are still growing rapidly, metal braces are much more adjustable and therefore usually much more appropriate for these age groups as compared to 'invisible' braces.
For older teens and adults, however, clear plastic technology is usually very appropriate. Plastic aligners are designed from one impression, taken at the beginning of treatment. Therefore, if there are significant changes in bone size or shape, treatment may be temporarily stopped while a new series of aligners is designed. This makes Invisalign most appropriate if the patient's jaw and mouth are fully developed before treatment begins.
Discomfort and Pain Pain and discomfort are somewhat normal and expected for both traditional braces and modern plastic braces treatments, but generally, there's less discomfort overall when plastic aligners are used. Because plastic braces are smooth and custom fit, there's generally less irritation as compared to what may occur with appliances, brackets, and wires.
You may still have discomfort with clear plastic technology, of course, but you won't generally experience the source or cuts that metal braces can give you. Switching aligners can cause some tenderness, of course, but you can generally reduce and manage this discomfort with over-the-counter pain reducers.
Removability and Convenience Plastic aligners also differ from typical braces because they are removable. When you drink, eat, brush your teeth, or have a special occasion where braces are an inconvenience, you can remove plastic aligners. Make sure, however, that you wear the aligners for at least 22 hours a day, for best effect. It should also be noted that aligners can be lost or misplaced because they are removable. If an aligner should need to be replaced, it can cost you more, and it can also slow down treatment.
Advantages Cosmetically Plastic braces can be nearly invisible, and because you have no metal in your mouth, this can be more pleasing aesthetically than traditional braces. This can minimize insecurity that may be caused by having to wear braces, no matter how old you are when you have to wear them.
by: Andrew Harriman.
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