Looking for a discreet and comfortable alternative to braces? Then Invisalign clear aligners may be just what you need. They’re transparent, removable and an effective treatment for straightening misaligned teeth.
If you’re part 55% of Aussies who are not confident about your smile and are exploring alternative solutions to traditional metal braces, we’re happy to help. With in-depth information on the best alternative to braces and how they work, this blog will help you get ready to take the first step towards achieving your new smile. Read on to find out more.
Best alternatives to braces
Orthodontic treatments are needed to correct teeth or jaw misalignment. But traditional metal braces may not appeal to everyone because of their aesthetic appeal. Luckily, there are many alternative orthodontic treatments available that are not as obvious as braces.
Some of them include:
Invisalign
The most popular alternative to braces is Invisalign. It uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to gently guide your teeth to the desired position. The aligners are created in a lab after taking your teeth impressions. Each set is worn for a couple of weeks and discarded after your teeth change position. Towards the end of the treatment, you will be given clear retainers to set your newly straightened teeth into place.
Invisalign aligners must be worn for 22 hours daily to get the desired results. They must be removed to eat or drink anything except water, and the teeth cleaned before putting them back on.
Invisalign treatment time varies from patient to patient, taking anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. Invisalign is not recommended for children whose teeth are still developing, people with multiple dental restorations and complex orthodontic problems such as an overbite. Talk to our qualified dentists about alternative treatment options tailored to your requirements.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces but are made of a transparent or tooth-coloured material. They blend with the colour of your teeth, making them less noticeable than traditional metal braces. While they may not be as discreet as Invisalign, they are less visible and more comfortable than metal braces. On the downside, they are more prone to staining and breakage because of the ceramic material.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are placed on the inside surface (tongue side) of the teeth and are used to correct misaligned teeth in much the same way as traditional braces. Lingual braces use metal brackets, wires and elastics bonded to the back surface of the teeth, making them less visible. These brackets are then connected using archwires and are adjusted over time to gradually move and straighten the teeth. Lingual braces can be more expensive than metal braces because they are custom-made for your teeth.
Retainers
Retainers are custom-made dental appliances used to maintain the position of teeth after orthodontic treatment. They are not an alternative to braces. Instead, retainers are used to keep teeth in place after braces are removed. Retainers are usually made of metal, plastic, or a combination of both materials. They work by applying gentle pressure to the teeth, allowing the teeth to adjust to the new placement and helping to prevent them from shifting back to their original position. Invisalign retainers are clear, while traditional metal braces have metal retainers.
Why is Invisalign one of the best alternatives to braces?
Some of the reasons why Invisalign is a preferred alternative to braces include:
- Aesthetic appeal – Invisalign is made of a clear plastic material which is almost invisible. This means they’re virtually undetectable, and you can go out in social and professional settings without feeling self-conscious
- Comfortable – Invisalign aligners are customised to your teeth, fitting them snugly like a glove, making them easier and more comfortable to wear. No wires rub against your gums causing irritation
- Easier Brushing & Flossing – Invisalign aligners are removable. This makes your oral hygiene care easier as there are no metal brackets and wires to contend with during brushing and flossing
- No dietary restrictions – with Invisalign you can eat and drink whatever you want because it won’t get stuck in the wires or brackets. Just remove your aligners, eat and brush your teeth before putting them back on
- Fewer visits to the dentist – Since aligners are customised to fit your teeth, it doesn’t take long to apply them. There are not as many follow-up visits to get the wires adjusted as your teeth start moving and aligning
- Shorter application time – traditional braces application time is much longer than Invisalign because the brackets must be glued and the wires adjusted for a secure fit. Invisalign on the other hand is made to fit your teeth
Find Your Smile Again with Invisalign!
If you’re interested in getting Invisalign treatment, talk to our qualified dentists at Boon Dental. We’ll examine your teeth, formulating a tailored treatment plan to give you a more beautiful and healthier smile. Book a consultation at our Wentworth Point or Ropes Crossing clinic today.
