Invisalign VS Braces
Which is Better for Your Teen?
Many teens require pediatric orthodontic care to improve the alignment of their adult teeth. And as a parent, you face the difficult decision — choosing between Invisalign vs braces. Neither option is better than the other, but each has advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before making a decision. Read on to learn more about these orthodontic treatments in Dallas, Texas, and determine which option is best for your teen.
What are Metal Braces?
Let’s start with the basics! Metal braces are brackets that an orthodontist or dentist will cement onto the teeth. These brackets connect by a wire that applies pressure and gradually guides their teeth into proper alignment. Your teen may also require additional components like springs or rubber bands, depending on their starting point. The treatment duration differs for each patient, but most fall within the range of 1-3 years.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a retainer that is not permanent. Patients will place this clear aligner over their teeth and remove it as needed. Teens will receive new Invisalign retainers every 1-2 weeks, and each time they get a new set, the patient moves closer to achieving the desired teeth alignment. Similar to braces, the duration of Invisalign treatment varies for each individual. However, many people achieve straight teeth in as little as 6-12 months!
Level of Involvement
Braces may be the best option if your teen tends to be forgetful or is not ready for highly-involved orthodontic care. Since braces will remain in their mouth until the treatment ends, they don’t have to worry about putting anything back on after eating or drinking. As long as they maintain good dental hygiene, they can begin this orthodontic treatment in Dallas, Texas, without any issues.
With Invisalign, teenagers have the flexibility to remove the aligners at their convenience. However, it’s important to keep in mind that forgetting to wear them as recommended can disrupt the treatment progress. Despite this, some teens prefer this option as it allows them to eat comfortably and take them out for photos. These benefits of Invisalign make them an excellent orthodontic treatment in Dallas, Texas (As long as your teen remembers to wear them for at least 20-22 hours daily)!
Dietary Restrictions
When considering the choice between Invisalign vs braces it is important to consider how each will affect their diets. If your teen wears braces, they may need to adjust their diet to avoid damaging the wires and brackets. Candies, popcorn, corn on the cob, and other foods can cause harm and require unwanted repairs and expenses. However, with Invisalign, there are no dietary restrictions. Since you need to remove the aligners when eating, there is no need to worry about anything being too hard or sticky. Your teen can eat whatever they like, as long as they brush and floss as needed!
Customization Options
Invisalign retainers are nearly invisible. In fact, many friends and family may not even realize your teen is receiving orthodontic care in Dallas, Texas, until their teeth begin to straighten over time! This feature makes Invisalign excellent for those who don’t want to draw too much attention to their treatment.
On the other hand, not everyone wants a sleek, discreet look, and your teen can show off their style with braces! The bands come in various colors, so whether they have a big school event coming up or a holiday they love celebrating, they can customize their braces to make them look bold and bright.
Comfort
Teens may experience minor discomfort when wearing braces, especially after an adjustment or if a wire shifts out of place. In fact, many people need to build up calluses and use orthodontic wax after they get braces so they can get used to them. And since braces are hard metal, you teen should always wear a mouthguard when playing sports to prevent oral injuries.
On the other hand, teens don’t need to worry about cutting themselves on the Invisalign aligners (but we still encourage them to wear a custom mouthguard during contact sports!) Their smooth finish ensures nothing is poking the inside of their mouth between orthodontic visits, which makes it easier for many people to adjust.
However, teens will still experience some discomfort when they receive a new aligner, as it will be tighter than the previous one. Some may want to remove their aligners to relieve the pain, but doing so will slow down their treatment. Therefore, it’s crucial to be responsible and follow the rules precisely, which may be easy for some teens but challenging for others.
Orthodontic Treatments in Dallas, Texas
Searching for professional orthodontic care in Dallas, Texas? Look no further than Texas Tiny Teeth! With nine convenient locations across the Metroplex, our team can help your teen achieve a straighter smile. We offer both Invisalign and braces and will provide detailed information on each option to help you select the best treatment plan. Click the button below to get your name on our books!