Braces vs. Invisalign®
If you are considering orthodontic solutions for you or your teen, you may have noticed there are more options on the market than just traditional metal braces. Traditional metal braces are what most people are familiar with, but at Markham Orthodontics, we also offer ceramic braces and Invisalign®!
To talk to Dr. David Markham about the best option for you or your loved one, contact our office online or call us at (916) 924-8970 today.
What should I know about these options?
We’re glad you asked. The first thing you should know is that each of these options is highly effective for straightening teeth. However, depending on the needs of your teeth, one option may be more effective than the other for you.
Braces
Whether you choose traditional metal braces or ceramic braces, the treatment and results are the same. The average treatment time for braces is two years but could be more or less depending on your needs.
Braces are more equipped to correct conditions like crowding and issues with bottom teeth. Patient compliance is also more likely since this type of appliance is irremovable. For these reasons, braces are often a recommended option for teens.
The most common complaint about braces is that they aren’t discreet like Invisalign®. But with ceramic braces, the brackets match the color of your teeth, making them much less visible. Ceramic braces are a great option for adults with more complex issues than aligners can handle.
Invisalign®
One of the most popular, new creations in orthodontics is Invisalign®. These clear, removable aligners require much more self-control and a little more maintenance than traditional braces, but when worn continuously, will definitely get the job done.
Aligners must be worn at least 22 hours a day, which means they are only taken off when eating and brushing. Along with brushing and flossing your teeth, you will also need to brush and rinse the trays each time you put them back on. Depending on your needs, these will be worn anywhere from 6 to 18 months. Aligner trays will also be replaced every two weeks to keep the teeth moving!
Some other major perks of Invisalign® are that you will have no issues with food getting caught in your brackets or difficulty while eating and there are no brackets to cause irritation and discomfort.
However, it is important to note that many people aren’t eligible for aligners because of certain issues or needs like:
- Bridgework
- Back tooth bite issues
- The need to rotate canines or premolars
- Moving teeth vertically
Although Invisalign® isn’t the best option for everyone, it could be for you! Contact us at (916) 924-8970 or visit our Sacramento, CA office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Markham.
Payment Options
Thinking about the cost of braces or Invisalign® can be overwhelming, but we never want it to be a reason that our patients don’t get the care they need. We believe the benefits of orthodontic care are always a worthwhile investment to improve the lives of our patients. This is why we accept most insurance plans and offer affordable payment plans to our patients.
Don’t let the cost of orthodontic care stop you from achieving a radiant, healthy smile for yourself or your teen. Contact us today to set up an appointment to discuss your orthodontic and financial options with our friendly, experienced staff.