It's no secret that straight teeth are considered attractive. But what if you're not happy with your smile? Should you choose Invisalign or traditional braces? Both have pros and cons, so it can be tough to decide.
Invisalign has become a popular choice for teens and adults because it's less visible than traditional braces. Traditional metal braces are more affordable and are available at most orthodontists' offices. Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your individual needs.
Invisalign
- What Is It?
Invisalign is a system of clear, removable aligners that gradually move your teeth into the desired position.
- How Does It Work?
You'll get a series of aligners to wear throughout your treatment. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before being replaced by the next in the series. As you progress through the aligners, your teeth will slowly shift into place.
- Pros and Cons
Invisalign is virtually invisible, so people won't be able to tell that you're wearing them. They're also removable so that you can take them out for eating and cleaning. Invisalign is a good option for people who are self-conscious about their appearance and don't want to wear traditional braces.
On the downside, Invisalign can be more expensive than traditional braces. In addition, they require a high level of compliance from patients. You must wear aligners daily for them to be effective. If they're not, treatment will take longer. Invisalign is also not an option for people with more complex dental problems.
- Who Is a Candidate?
Invisalign is a good option for people with mild to moderate teeth misalignment. You can also use Invisalign to treat more complex dental problems, but it may not be as effective as traditional braces in these cases. Invisalign is not recommended for people with severe teeth misalignment or bite problems.
If you're considering Invisalign, the first step is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Firouzi. During the consultation, he will examine your teeth and discuss your treatment options. If Invisalign is right for you, he will develop a treatment plan that meets your needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
Traditional Braces
- What Is It?
Traditional metal braces are the most common device for teeth alignment and have been used for decades. They are made of high-grade stainless steel and attached to the front of your teeth.
- How Does It Work?
Traditional braces work by placing gentle pressure on your teeth over time. This pressure slowly moves your teeth into alignment.
- Pros and Cons
The main advantage of traditional braces is that they are very effective in treating many dental problems. You can also customize them to match the color of your teeth.
However, the disadvantage of traditional braces is that they can be uncomfortable and require more care than other types of braces. They can also be visible when you smile or talk.
- Who Is a Candidate?
Most people who want to improve their smile or the alignment of their teeth are candidates for traditional braces. Traditional braces can be used to treat a wide range of dental problems, including:
- Crooked teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
The treatment process for traditional braces typically takes 18 months to two years. During this time, you will need to see Dr. Firouzi for regular appointments to adjust your braces.
Schedule a Consultation
Dr. Firouzi dedicates himself to providing excellent cosmetic and neuromuscular dentistry services to his patients in the Pittsburgh area. His team provides a wide variety of services, including endodontic treatment. To learn more about Dr. Firouzi and his practice, contact us today at (412) 274-1126.