When your teeth are crooked, the desire to make them look straighter can be strong. This often makes people want instant results, which are not possible no matter which style of braces is used. Nonetheless, questions often arise as to which type of braces to get. Does one style really work better or do they offer the same kind of results for patients with crooked teeth? Should a patient choose Invisalign® or traditional metal braces when their teeth are really crooked?
Invisalign® or Traditional Metal Braces: Severe Misalignment
Quite often, traditional metal braces are recommended when a patient has severely misaligned teeth that cause all sorts of problems, including severe bite issues. While clear braces can correct the problem, it might take longer than using traditional styles. Therefore, when deciding whether or not a patient should get Invisalign® or traditional metal braces, the dentist usually looks at the overall picture, particularly the level of crookedness involved.
Invisalign® or Traditional Metal Braces: Vertical Issues
When some of the teeth appear to be higher than others, Invisalign® usually does not work well to correct the problem. The aligners cannot change the existing height of the teeth sufficiently in order to correct differences that take away from the beauty of the smile. Therefore, patients who are deciding whether or not to choose Invisalign® or traditional metal braces to improve the appearance of teeth needing to be shifted up or down do better to get traditional braces.
Invisalign® or Traditional Metal Braces: Rotational Adjustments
For patients who have severe issues related to teeth that need to undergo rotation in order to correct poor teeth alignment, the decision to select Invisalign® or traditional metal braces is one that is not as clear cut. Both types of braces can be used to correct rotational problems. Typically, this process takes anywhere from 18 to 24 months no matter which style is chosen.
Invisalign® or Traditional Metal Braces: Appearance
Patients, who are concerned about the appearance of their teeth while wearing braces, often choose clear aligner trays. Choosing Invisalign® or traditional metal braces becomes a matter of personal preference rather than functionality.