There are two popular treatments when it comes to braces for your teeth: Invisalign clear braces, and traditional metal braces. Both are highly effective, and both have helped millions of patients smile with enthusiasm. Are you torn between Invisalign clear braces and traditional metal ones? Don’t worry, you are not alone. Fortunately, there is a clear answer.
Comments by Dr. Ted Herrmann:
Believe it or not, humans have been fascinated with straightening teeth since as early as 500 B.C. Greek philosopher Aristotle, for example, was fascinated with teeth and often wrote of ways to realign them (i). It was not until the late 1800s that medical professionals began to create devices to straighten crooked teeth. The most recognizable of these devices uses a series of metal brackets and wires to gradually shift tooth alignment over time.
Invisalign vs. Braces
Traditional metal braces are still common today. Using strategically placed brackets and wires, Orthodontic professionals are able to shift the teeth of a patient into neat and parallel rows over the course of several months. Unfortunately, metal braces have a bad stigma among young children and adults alike. They can be quite uncomfortable, as the metal brackets must be cemented onto the patient’s teeth for the duration of the treatment. Many feel embarrassed to have so much metal and wiring permanently fixed to their teeth, adding to the discomfort.
Invisalign: A Clear and Comfortable Solution
Invisalign braces entered the offices of dental professionals nationwide at the beginning of the 21st century. The revolutionary new system became instantly popular, addressing the biggest downfall of traditional metal braces: comfort. Patients suffered physical discomfort with metal in their mouths, and they were uncomfortable with being seen wearing metal braces. Invisalign, however, changed everything.
Invisalign Clear Braces
Invisalign may be considered clear braces, but they are not actually braces at all. Invisalign braces are custom made aligners. Each is modeled to fit the patient’s teeth exactly, but with one catch: they are slightly more straight. As the patient wears their Invisalign aligners, their teeth are gradually moved into parallel alignment. The aligners are made of high grade plastics– not metal—and offer superior comfort. Patients may remove the aligners before eating, brushing, and flossing, making Invisalign an extremely convenient way to create the near perfect smile you’ve always desired.
Still considering Invisalign vs. Braces? Assure a Smile is offering $1,000 off new Miami Invisalign treatments until January 1st of 2011. The smile of your dreams has never been more affordable!
(i) http://www.ada.org/public/resources/history/timeline_ancient.asp
