Will I Need Braces, or Can I Get Invisalign?

When you and yourGurnee, IL, orthodontistare discussing treatment options to straighten your teeth or correct your bite, you might wonder whether traditional braces or Invisalign is the right choice for you. Both methods are designed to align teeth over time, but they do so in different ways and are suited to different types of orthodontic issues. Here’s a brief overview to help you understand which option might suit your situation better.

Traditional Braces

Braces consist of metal brackets that are applied to your teeth and connected by wires. Braces are a robust solution that can handle the most severe crowding, spacing, alignment problems, and complex bite issues such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners, which are nearly invisible, removable trays made of plastic. Invisalign is popular among adults and teenagers who are looking for a less noticeable form of orthodontic treatment. However, Invisalign is best suited for mild to moderate dental misalignments, including crowding, spacing, and bite problems.

Deciding Factors

Ultimately, your orthodontist will make the final decision as to what the best course of treatment for your alignment issues is. The dentist will take into account several factors, including:

Severity of Orthodontic Issues

Traditional braces might be recommended if you have severe crowding, spacing, or complex bite issues due to their robustness and ability to handle intricate adjustments. While effective for a wide range of corrections, Invisalign might not be suitable for more complex orthodontic needs.

Aesthetics

If the visibility of braces is a big concern for you, your dentist might agree to Invisalign, particularly if you are of school age or work in a professional capacity where aesthetics matter a great deal.

Lifestyle

Invisalign requires discipline to wear the aligners for the recommended 22 hours daily. If you think you might forget to wear them or prefer not to be responsible for removing and inserting the aligners throughout the day, traditional braces might be a better fit.

Whether you get Invisalign in Gurnee, IL, or traditional braces, you can be sure that your orthodontist will do everything possible to ensure a positive outcome for your dental health. Contact us today to learn more about your options.