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Crooked teeth can affect your overall well-being, causing you to hesitate before smiling or laughing. Fortunately, orthodontic treatment can help you to smile proudly once again. At Esparza Dentistry, we offer traditional metal braces and Invisalign® clear aligners as part of our comprehensive orthodontic services. When it comes to choosing the right orthodontic treatment, understanding the differences between metal braces vs. Invisalign is crucial for achieving a healthy, beautiful smile.
Let our experienced team, led by Dr. Oscar Esparza and Dr. Blanca Esparza, help you determine the best option for you!
Understanding the Structural Differences of Braces and Clear Aligners
Metal braces and Invisalign® are both effective orthodontic treatments, but they differ significantly in structure and function.
Metal braces consist of high-grade stainless steel brackets that we bond to the front of your teeth. An archwire connects the brackets and applies pressure to gradually move the teeth into their ideal positions. The brackets are fixed in place and work continuously to adjust the teeth, which is particularly advantageous for treating complex dental issues. Rubber bands or metal ties are often used to secure the archwire to the brackets, adding additional pressure to facilitate movement.
In contrast, Invisalign® uses a series of clear custom trays that fit over the teeth. These aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing, providing greater flexibility and convenience. With this system, you wear eat set of aligner trays for a set period of time before replacing them with the next trays in the series. This approach shifts the teeth into place gradually. Invisalign is often preferred for its discreet appearance and comfort, as the smooth plastic aligners are less likely to irritate the gums and cheeks compared to metal brackets. However, Invisalign may not be suitable for more severe orthodontic cases.
Metal Braces vs. Invisalign Benefits
Braces are designed to deliver precise and reliable results. Here are the benefits they offer:
- Reliable results: Traditional braces don’t rely on compliance the way Invisalign does. Since braces are fixed to the teeth, they work around the clock, providing consistent results without the patient having to remember to wear them.
- Effective for complex cases: Traditional metal braces are highly effective, even for complex orthodontic cases. They can address issues like crowding, spacing, and misalignment with precision.
- Customizable look: Metal braces can be tailored to fit your style preferences. Clear brackets are available for a less noticeable appearance, and colored bands can be chosen to add a fun and personal touch to your braces.
- Cost-effective treatment: Metal braces are made from stainless steel, making them exceptionally durable and capable of withstanding the pressures of daily activities. This strength ensures they remain effective throughout the entire treatment period.
Invisalign® can align a smile without brackets and wires. The advantages of Invisalign include:
- Invisibility: Invisalign is known for its virtually invisible appearance. The aligners are made of clear, medical-grade plastic and are custom-fitted to your teeth. This makes them discreet to wear.
- Removability: They are removable, so you can enjoy your favorite foods and maintain your regular oral hygiene routine without the restrictions of traditional braces.
- Comfort: The smooth plastic aligners are known for their comfort. They have no wires or brackets that can irritate your cheeks and gums.
- Easy maintenance: Invisalign aligners are easy to clean and make maintaining your oral hygiene simple. You can remove them to brush and floss your teeth, ensuring optimal oral hygiene throughout your treatment.
Talk to Us Today About Metal Braces vs. Invisalign!
When enhancing your smile, it’s essential to make informed choices that align with your personal preferences and specific needs. Metal braces are effective, durable, and reliable. We help customers every day find the right solution for their smile problems. Reach out to Esparza Dentistry today to book a free consultation and explore your options for a straight and confident smile.
