Do you have crooked teeth or a misaligned bite pattern? If so, you have plenty of options to consider for orthodontic treatment. Often, patients think that their only option for straightening their smile is traditional metal braces; however, modern dentistry has advanced enough to allow patients a different option: clear braces. Learn why many patients choose clear braces over metal braces below:
How Metal Braces Work
Metal braces utilize brackets and wires that are firmly secured to your dental structures for the entire duration of your treatment plan. The wires must be routinely tightened by a dental professional to maintain the pressure needed on your teeth to encourage them to shift into a straighter position. This means monthly visits to the orthodontist’s office will need to be factored into your schedule. Outside the dentist’s office, patients with traditional metal braces will need to abide by certain dietary restrictions to avoid damaging their orthodontic hardware. Excessively sticky or crunchy foods can easily damage the orthodontic hardware and prolong your treatment plan. Patients with traditional metal braces are also asked to take additional oral hygiene precautions after each meal to prevent food residue being caught in the orthodontic hardware. Orthodontic treatment of any kind can take several months or even years to complete. If you are unable to abide by these lifestyle adjustments, or if you want a more discreet alternative, clear braces are an excellent option to consider.
How Clear Braces Work
Clear braces utilize plastic aligners, similar to retainers, that are worn over your teeth while in use. The aligners are completely see-through, meaning no one will know that you are undergoing orthodontic treatment unless you remove the aligners in front of them. Patients are not only allowed but encouraged to remove their aligners on a daily basis when they need to eat, drink, or brush their teeth. Clear braces’ removability allows patients to maintain their dietary preferences without any additional oral hygiene hazards. Patients love clear braces because they are also able to remove their orthodontic appliances for special occasions like job interviews, weddings, or first dates. As long as you wear your aligners for an average of 20-22 hours per day, your treatment plan will progress as planned. Additionally, patients are given all of their aligners upfront and instructed on when to change to a new set. This means that you will spend less time in the dental chair with clear braces, leaving more time for after-school and after-work activities.
Invisalign in Denton, TX
Are you looking for Invisalign in Denton, TX? Dr. Samantha Leatherwood provides Invisalign clear braces in her Denton, TX dentist office. Schedule an appointment with Leatherwood Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to learn more about your orthodontic treatment options. We look forward to helping you achieve your dream smile.