Did you know that over 4 million people in the U.S. wear braces each year and that 25% of them are adults? That means that if you have crooked teeth and are considering orthodontics in Wharton, you’re in good company! Straightening your teeth can greatly increase your confidence in your appearance, which has a ripple effect in your personal and professional life. Not to mention that it’s easier to keep your teeth and gums healthy because they’re so much easier to clean! But what should you consider before making your decision and are there alternatives to braces that can still give you the same result? Keep reading for the answer to both of those questions!
Is There an Alternative To Braces?
Braces were the only option for straightening teeth for many decades. That changed about 20 years ago with the introduction of Invisalign.
Invisalign uses clear, plastic trays called “aligners” to move the teeth, instead of brackets and wires. The aligners are practically invisible and are much more comfortable than having metal in your mouth!
What Should You Consider When Making Your Decision?
- Cost – This is one of the first things people think about when they’re considering orthodontic work. Since it largely depends on your individual case, the best way to get an estimate is to schedule a consultation. The difference in price between braces and Invisalign usually isn’t significant.
- Time – This can vary quite a bit from person to person, but most patients typically spend between 1-3 years in braces, with two years being the average. For Invisalign, the treatment time is generally faster, with the average being 12 months.
- Goals – If you have severe crowding or a large overbite, your dentist may recommend braces. Having said that, Invisalign can work quite well for a wide variety of issues!
- Hygiene – Brushing and flossing is much easier with Invisalign, since you can remove your aligners before your daily hygiene routine. Wearing braces requires much more time and effort to thoroughly clean plaque and food debris from the teeth.
- Diet – If you don’t want to give up certain hard or crunchy foods while in orthodontic treatment, Invisalign would probably be a better choice.
- Commitment – While removable trays can make certain aspects of orthodontic treatment easier, it also requires more commitment. The trays must be worn a minimum of 22 hours a day for your treatment to be completed on schedule.
Being able to invisibly straighten your teeth, especially as an adult, is a wonderful alternative to traditional braces. Now that you know a bit more about your options, you’ll be better prepared to make the best decision for your needs!
About the Author
Dr. David Tripulas is a general, restorative and cosmetic dentist who understands the positive impact a beautiful smile has on someone’s quality of life. With years of experience doing a wide variety of cosmetic procedures, including Invisalign, he can offer outstanding results to patients who want to straighten their smile without the hassle of braces. If you have any questions, he can be reached via his website or at (979) 532-4663.