Getting braces is a big decision. You want your child to have a straight, healthy set of teeth as they grow up, but getting braces and the responsibility that comes with having them can seem like a daunting task. This is why having options is great. Especially when one of the most popular questions is - How long will I have to wear them?
Some prefer traditional metal braces while others like the freedom that comes with Invisalign. They both work well to progressively realign misaligned teeth. But does one really work faster than the other?
How Traditional Braces Work
When you picture someone with braces, you likely envision someone with metal brackets on every tooth and wires connecting them. These are traditional metal braces - and here is how they work.
Metal brackets are glued to the enamel of each tooth. The metal wires are then carefully connected to each bracket. Throughout the length of time these braces are worn, the orthodontist will schedule regular appointments every several weeks to tighten the braces. This is what helps transition your teeth and align them according to the plan.
Traditional braces are not removable. Once they are placed on the enamel, they cannot be taken off until the orthodontist does so.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign works to realign your teeth, but it doesn’t use any hardware except clear aligners. And that’s why most people prefer them. They are discreet, yet they still get the job done.
When an orthodontist examines and creates a model of the teeth, he can then have aligners created that work through the alignment progression. Invisalign doesn’t require regular office visits for wire tightening since there are no wires. Rather, every few weeks or so a new aligner is used. This one is tighter and meant to move your teeth along on their journey. Once it becomes loose, a new aligner goes in. The process continues until the teeth have aligned the way they were meant to - often using many aligners along the way.
Invisalign aligners can be removed at any time, such as when eating and drinking. Which is also one of the enticing aspects of this option.
Traditional Braces vs. Invisalign: Which Works Faster?
So now that we know some of the general key aspects of both traditional braces and Invisalign aligners, does one really work faster than the other?
Obviously, the complexity of any orthodontic issues will come into play. And both types of braces can work to treat the teeth as quickly as possible. For some, metal braces may work faster, for others, Invisalign may be the better choice. Overall, though, Invisalign may work just a little faster than traditional braces.
Here’s the kicker. Are you ready? Invisalign aligners are removable. While it is recommended that they be worn at least 20-22 hours per day, it is ultimately up to the patient how long they are actually worn. But to work, they have to be in your mouth. The less they are worn, the longer the treatment time. In other words, for someone who is not too thrilled about wearing their aligners all the time, it could take years to achieve straight teeth.
Learn More About Braces at Tender Smiles 4 Kids
Making the decision to get braces can lead to a lot of questions. You want to make sure you are making the best choice for your child. With the professional, qualified orthodontists on staff at Tender Smiles 4 Kids you can rest easy knowing that you have access to all the information you need to make an educated decision about your child’s future smile.
Ready to learn more about traditional braces and Invisalign? Contact Tender Smiles 4 Kids at any one of our convenient locations:
North Brunswick Office: 732-249-1010
Schedule your consultation today!