Serving patients of Erwin, Jonesborough, and Greeneville TN
When you want straight teeth, orthodontics often is the route most people take. For decades, traditional metal braces have been the treatment of choice to close gapped teeth or correct an overbite. But nowadays, Invisalign clear aligners are becoming a popular option for straightening teeth. Traditional braces involve adhering metal brackets and bands to teeth, connected by wires that can be tightened every few weeks by your dentist. This slow and consistent pressure shifts teeth into proper alignment. Invisalign, however, uses a series of clear plastic aligners to accomplish the same task in less time. But does Invisalign straighten teeth as good as braces? Today on the blog, Greeneville Invisalign providers at Tusculum Dental Care answer that question.
Both Invisalign and metal braces have advantages and disadvantages. When it comes down to deciding which treatment is better, it depends on your smile needs. Invisalign and braces work similarly by applying gentle force to shift teeth into proper alignment slowly. But each does this differently.
Why patients choose metal braces
Metal braces have been used successfully for many years. They are ideal for patients with severely misaligned teeth or those also requiring jaw alignment, upper palate expansion, or other more complex dental issues not likely to be addressed with clear aligners. There are also add-on treatments that are possible with metal braces such as headgear, rubber bands, palatal expander, jaw repositioning devices, and others. Not all patients require these additional treatments.
The disadvantages of braces are that they tend to be uncomfortable since the wires and brackets rub against the lips and cheeks. Patients also find that keeping their braces clean can be challenging, especially since they remain on the teeth throughout the entire treatment, which could be a couple of years or more. This could result in additional dental health issues such as gum disease or cavities.
How to know when Invisalign is a better option
Invisalign has become a trusted brand among orthodontists in Greeneville. Ideal for patients with minor tooth crookedness, gapped teeth, or slight over or underbites, Invisalign is also available not just for adults, but teens too. Invisalign aligners are removable, which makes oral hygiene a breeze.
Compliance is a significant factor in the success of Invisalign. Aligners should be worn a minimum of 22-24 hours a day. If you forget to wear your aligners, results are likely to be delayed. Invisalign aligners are clear and discreet, which means that they are hardly noticeable. Patients report that wearing Invisalign aligners is comfortable, which can’t be said about braces, although you would eventually get used to having all of that metal in your mouth.
What about the cost?
The cost of orthodontics varies, depending on how long the patient will be under treatment by their orthodontist. Also, with metal braces, add-on appliances or treatments will make the overall cost more expensive. However, the good news is that many dental insurance plans offer orthodontic coverage that also includes Invisalign. If you’re wondering how much Invisalign costs, schedule a consultation with Tusculum Dental Care today!
Invisalign in Greeneville, Erwin, and Jonesborough
Tusculum Dental Care is a licensed Invisalign provider serving the areas of Greeneville, Erwin, and Jonesborough. We welcome you to our practice for a consultation if you’d like to learn more about Invisalign or see if you’re a candidate for clear aligners. Call our office at (423) 639-7575 to schedule your Invisalign consultation.