Invisalign and Braces- How to choose between these two alternatives

If you or your child need corrective care for your teeth, in today's modern world, there a more options, than just traditional braces. A very common and popular option today is Invisalign, clear aligners.

What is Invisalign and how does it differ from Braces?

Invisalign are clear tooth aligners, introduced in 1999 by Align Technologies. This process incorporates a series of clear, plastic aligners that fit comfortably over your teeth and are designed to move your teeth gradually into the desired position. Invisalign is one of the leading brands of orthodontic appliances because of the growing popularity of "invisable" braces, instead of the traditional wire and bracket braces.

What is the Invisalign process?

The invisalign method is based on a series of removable aligners that move the teeth, incrementally, to the desired position. The aligners are sent to the orthodontist, who dispenses them to the patient, one at a time, during regular check ups, usually about every four to six weeks, so that the treatment can be properly managed. Each aligner is worn in its specific order for about two weeks, in which the teeth move in small increments of approximately .25 -.33 millimeters. The orthodontist's patient can remove the liners himself for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing, but the aligners must be worn at least 20 hours a day in order to position the teeth correctly and on schedule.

A typical Invisalign treatment requires 20 to 30 aligners for both the upper and lower teeth. Most adults complete their treatment in less than one year. However, treatment time depends on the specific alignment problem. Invisalign vs Traditional Braces

Invisalign may not be appropriate for certain cases of misalignment or complex bite problems. Fixed orthodontic appliances (traditional wire and bracket braces) can be used for complex malocclusions.

Though not as esthetically appealing as clear aligners like Invisalign, today's traditional braces have been improved so they are smaller, less visible and more efficient. These newer wire-and-bracket braces also help to correct misalignment much faster than before.

The best person to determine which treatment option is best for you is your local Charlotte Orthodontist. He can advise you about various orthodontic treatments and the alternatives. Traditional braces are usually used when

• Crowding and spacing greater than five millimeters.
  • Skeletal malocclusions.
  • Discrepancies involving centric-relation/centric-occlusion (how the upper and lower jaw joints and jaw muscles close together).
  • Teeth that are severely rotated.
  • Open bites in the front and back of the mouth that need to be closed.
  • Teeth that are severely tipped.
  • Upper or lower jaws with multiple missing teeth.

Invisalign is currently approved for adults and teenagers with completely erupted permanent teeth who can faithfully follow the directions for treatment. Consult your local Charlotte Orthodontist for your treatment options today.