Are you thinking about straightening your teeth?
Or rather, are you confused about which treatment to opt for? Here’s what you need to know before you make that decision.
A handful of treatments are available for straightening your teeth. Out of these, train tracks and Invisalign are the two most popular or chosen ones. Even so, each of them has a fair share of pros and cons. Before we begin to understand their pros and cons, let us consider what they are.
What are Train Tracks and Invisalign?
On the one hand, the train tracks braces are made up of metal brackets attached to each tooth and connected to each other with the help of wires and rubber bands. On the other hand, Invisalign is made of clear plastic aligner trays that fit right over your teeth.
Train tracks braces vs Invisalign: the contrasting differences
Even though the train tracks braces and Invisalign share their purpose, their contrasting differences make them quite different. Don’t miss out on our YouTube video explaining the differences. Below you will find the list of most of the differences that can help you decide as to which is better and why.
Metal or plastic? Colour or colourless?
Train tracks braces are made up of metal, which is why they are normally silvery in color. However, Invisalign consists of plastic, which is why it is colorless. Colorless does not mean that it is entirely invisible. But, it is undoubtedly much better than the braces that have a quite prominent color.
To suit your style quotient, the braces come in different customizable colors. You can also choose a color that is almost the same shade as your teeth. Some people find it fashionable to change the color of their metal braces rubbers when they come in for the review appointments to see their orthodontist (braces dentist).
Removable or not?
Braces are not removable appliances, while Invisalign is. Generally, people who use Invisalign can remove it before eating or brushing their teeth. But, people who use braces are not that fortunate. They are up against some inconveniences such as the possibility of some gum ulcers appearing on the initial stage of having had the metal brace fitted, or not being able to remove the food particles stuck on the braces. You might even have to give up eating sticky foods. Nevertheless, because metal braces are constantly applying the forces to the their teeth, movements are more accurate, the final teeth position is more predictable.
How long is it going to take?
Regardless of wearing metal braces or Invisalign, the misalignment of the teeth can take about 6 months to 2 years. Although it may seem they take the same amount of time, the Invisible removable brace treatment time totally depends on how long you wear it for in a day. It is recommended to wear them anywhere between 22 to 24 hours a day.
Hygienic or not?
As I have already pointed out with metal braces, you would be up against some quandaries, such as food being stuck on the braces if you opt for them. It can be exasperating to get that tiny particle out…most patients that go for this type of braces just brush their teeth after each meal to feel confortable again without food remains.
You will not have this issue with Invisalign. You can simply remove them while eating, but you will have to ensure that you brush thoroughly before you put them on back. You could also wear them while eating; this won’t be an issue at all.
Which is more effective?
In my opinion, I would have to say that conventional braces are more effective than Invisalign. I’m saying so because braces leave you with no option but to wear them 24 hours a day. On the other hand, with Invisalign, you tend to remove it because of the discomfort it causes in the early days; this is only till you get used to it. Also, for more severe or complex issues requiring more extensive teeth movements higher degree of changes, braces have turned out to be more effective.
A few things to remember
Although they are not an absolute contra-indication, you should avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and chewing gums if you are opting for any of the two options. In the case of Invisalign, these actions may cause staining.
To summarise, Invisalign provides you with a host of benefits: near invisibility, flexibility, shorter durations, and hygiene. But its main setback is its effectiveness, which ultimately depends on you. So, wearing it for 24 hours a day, will ultimately lead to better results. Have you made your choice yet? If not, call us at Maida Smiles Clinic today for some sound advice before you decide. We are just a short walk from Maida Vale tube station and St John’s Wood famous Abbey Road.
