Invisalign vs. Braces — Benefits Comparison

People of all ages, even into their senior years, elect to get braces to straighten their teeth. In recent years, different types of braces have become available, so there are a variety of options for achieving straight teeth with an Orthodontist in Friendswood, TX. 

Two of the most popular choices are Invisalign and braces. But when it comes to Invisalign vs Braces, what is the right choice for you? What are the benefits and drawbacks of both? 

In this article, you'll read more about Invisalign and braces with an Orthodontist Friendswood TX.

What Are Braces?

Traditional braces consist of brackets and wires. Each bracket bonds to each tooth held together with a metal wire. Your orthodontist adjusts these wires at your visits, which shifts the teeth into a straighter position. 

Metal braces have been the choice for patients for many years. They're a tried and true method and you get results. Metal braces work for nearly every kind of dental misalignment. 

What Is Invisalign? 

Invisalign also works to straighten teeth, but there's no metal required. Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners to move teeth with gentle pressure. Because the aligners are clear plastic, they're almost unnoticeable. 

In the past Invisalign could only treat specific cases. However, with advances in technology and the addition of attachments, many patients use Invisalign to treat dental problems like overbites, crowding, or gaps in their teeth. 

Invisalign vs Braces Pros and Cons

Both Invisalign and braces have their pros and cons. Knowing these helps you make your decision about which orthodontic treatment is right for you. Here are some pros and cons of braces.

Pros and Cons of Braces

Metal braces have a strong history of working well. This is why they're offered at nearly all orthodontics offices including your Orthodontist in Friendswood TX. With metal braces, you won't have to wonder if your treatment will work. 

There are actually different kinds of braces. If you're not a fan of metal, you can choose ceramic braces which are somewhat less noticeable and more comfortable than metal. Lingual braces, or inside braces, work to correct your smile but they're bonded to the back of your teeth instead of the front.

If you have a complicated or severe case, braces can typically take care of it. There's rarely a case that traditional braces can't fix.

Both children and adults are eligible for braces. While you may need to help children brush and care for their teeth with braces, in some cases, braces for children are the preferred method. Braces stay on your teeth so there's no fear of losing them. 

Braces can look great. Your orthodontist may provide different colors for your brackets so you can express yourself. 

Even though there are great reasons to choose braces, there are some drawbacks to be aware of. 

Metal brackets can rub up against the inside of your cheek and cause irritation. Your orthodontist may give you some wax to cover up these areas for comfort. 

You will need to be cautious about food choices. Hard or sticky foods like certain candy or popcorn may lodge in between your brackets causing tooth problems. You may also break a bracket and need an impromptu trip to the orthodontist. 

Depending on your case, you may have to wear braces for a long period of time, sometimes over two years.

Pros and Cons of Invisalign

Metal braces can be a wonderful choice to straighten your teeth, especially if you have a complicated case. However, Invisalign is another choice as well. Here are some pros and cons of Invisalign.

Invisalign aligners are removable. Unlike traditional braces, they're not bonded to your teeth, so you can remove them for activities like eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth. Because of this, you can maintain good oral hygiene throughout your treatment. 

The typical timeline for Invisalign treatment is between six months to two years, but this depends largely on your case. 

Invisalign can be more comfortable because there are no brackets or wires rubbing up against your cheek. There may be some slight discomfort when you get your new aligners, but it should subside after a few weeks. 

Because Invisalign is removable there are no real food restrictions. You can eat whatever you want but brush your teeth afterward to avoid bacteria buildup. 

For adults and teenagers, the upside to Invisalign is transparency. Many adults and teenagers wish to keep their dental treatment less noticeable opt for Invisalign. 

Even though Invisalign seems like a perfect choice for many people, it also has some cons as well. 

Responsibility is the key to success with Invisalign. You must wear your aligners 22 hours per day, clean them well to diminish bacteria, and keep them safe in a tray when they're not in use. This is why children do better with braces because they're not quite responsible enough. 

Even with all the advancements for Invisalign, there are still cases in which traditional braces work best. Your orthodontist in Friendswood TX can discuss this with you. 

Invisalign vs Braces Cost

Even though there are pros and cons of both Invisalign and braces, one determining factor is cost. Which dental treatment costs more, Invisalign or braces?

Generally speaking, Invisalign costs slightly more, but it really depends on the case. If you have a severe case that needs more time, that factors into the cost as well. Your orthodontist in Friendswood TX can give you the best estimate and work out payment plans with you.


Invisalign vs Braces With an Orthodontist Friendswood, TX

When it comes to Invisalign vs braces, there's much debate. But the deciding factor is which one works best for your specific situation. Your Orthodontist in Friendswood TX can determine if Invisalign or braces will give you the smile you're looking for. 

Are you ready to begin your orthodontic treatment? Contact our Orthodontist in Friendswood, TX to get your first appointment scheduled. 

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According to Child Stats, it is estimated that three million kids go to the emergency room for injuries yearly. Dental injuries, in particular, are common in children, especially those who are active in sports, playground activities, or simply exploring their surroundings. Knowing what to do and how to respond to a dental emergency can be hectic if you do not know what to do. But if you act fast and have a plan, you can prevent complications, minimize pain, and even save a tooth. Understanding first aid for dental injuries can help parents and your local family dentist provide immediate care before seeking professional treatment at a trusted pediatric dentist in Pearland . Common Types of Dental Injuries in Kids Children can experience various dental injuries, ranging from minor chips to severe trauma that requires emergency dental care. One of the most frequent injuries is a chipped or broken tooth. This is often caused by falls but can also be due to bike accidents or biting into hard objects. While minor chips may not cause immediate pain, more extensive fractures can expose nerves and lead to significant discomfort. Another serious dental injury is a knocked-out tooth, also known as an avulsed tooth. When a permanent tooth is completely dislodged from the mouth, immediate action is crucial to improve the chances of saving it. In contrast, if a baby tooth is knocked out prematurely, attempting to reinsert it can cause damage to the developing permanent tooth underneath. A loose or displaced tooth is another common issue that can occur due to blunt force trauma. While some cases resolve independently, others require professional dental evaluation to ensure the surrounding structures remain intact. If your child experiences a dental emergency, learning about common pediatric dental emergencies can help you take the proper steps. Tooth intrusion occurs when a tooth is pushed further into the gums due to an impact. This type of injury is more common in younger children whose jawbones are still developing. Tooth intrusion can lead to complications, such as damage to the underlying permanent teeth, making it essential to visit an emergency pediatric dentist in Friendswood for proper assessment. Lastly, injuries to the lips, tongue, or gums often accompany dental trauma. These soft tissue injuries can cause significant bleeding and pain, increasing the risk of infection if not properly treated. Immediate First Aid Steps for Dental Injuries Providing immediate comprehensive oral care for dental injuries can significantly improve the outcome. For a chipped or broken tooth, it is essential to rinse the child's mouth with warm water to remove debris. Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. If possible, collect any broken fragments and bring them to a dentist. If a permanent tooth is knocked out, locate it and handle it only by the crown, avoiding contact with the root. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with water, but do not scrub or remove any attached tissue. If possible, reinsert the tooth into the socket and have the child bite on a clean cloth to hold it in place. If reinsertion is not feasible, store the tooth in milk or the child's saliva and seek emergency dental care immediately. For a step-by-step guide on managing a knocked-out tooth, check out this helpful resource on handling pediatric dental emergencies . Stabilizing a loose or displaced tooth by having the child bite down gently on a piece of gauze is essential. Avoid repositioning the tooth forcefully, as this could cause additional damage. A child-friendly dentist should assess the injury as soon as possible. Tooth intrusion should be treated with caution. Attempting to reposition the tooth at home is not recommended. Instead, apply a cold compress if the tooth is swelling and schedule an emergency dental visit. Seeking care from a pediatric emergency dentist in Friendswood can ensure the injury is managed appropriately. For soft tissue injuries, such as cuts to the lips, tongue, or gums, applying gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze can help control bleeding. A cold compress can reduce swelling, and rinsing with salt water may help prevent infection. When to Seek Professional Dental Care While minor dental injuries may not require immediate attention from a family dentistry practice, certain signs indicate the need for urgent dental care. Severe pain, swelling, excessive bleeding, or a knocked-out permanent tooth warrant an emergency visit to a dentist. Additionally, any signs of infection, such as: Pus Fever Red streaks near the injury site These should not be ignored. Understanding when to seek professional care can help prevent long-term complications. Parents can find more information on common pediatric dental emergencies . Prevention Tips to Reduce Dental Injuries While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, certain precautions can help minimize the risk of dental injuries in children. Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard during sports and recreational activities provides essential protection against impacts. Childproofing the home by securing furniture edges and installing safety gates can prevent falls that lead to dental trauma. Encouraging children to avoid chewing hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy can also reduce the likelihood of chipped or broken teeth. Teaching good dental hygiene habits , including brushing and flossing regularly, strengthens teeth and enhances their resilience against injury. Additionally, parents should be prepared for unexpected dental emergencies while traveling. Knowing where to find emergency dental care can be invaluable in an unfamiliar location. If your child experiences a dental emergency away from home, reviewing these tips for handling dental emergencies while traveling can be beneficial. Need a Local Family Dentist? Contact Dentistry 4 Children Understanding first aid for dental injuries in children can make a significant difference in preserving their oral health. By acting quickly and getting affordable dental services, parents and caregivers can reduce pain, prevent complications, and increase the chances of saving an injured tooth. Here at Dentistry 4 Children, we know how scary these accidents can be for children. That is why we do everything possible to provide a safe and supportive local family dentist environment. So contact us today to get your child the help they need.
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