If you ask anyone who has worn traditional braces how they feel about their treatment, they will probably say that they are glad it is over. Traditional metal braces are irremovable and clearly visible appliances that require intricate hygiene practices and many dietary restrictions to be successful, which has proven to be a major bummer on many occasions. Here’s how Invisalign allows patients many freedoms that traditional orthodontic methods cannot match.
The Freedom to Enjoy All Sorts of Foods
With traditional braces, you are restricted from eating anything hard, crunchy, chewy, sticky, sugary, or acidic. This is quite a tall order that few patients adhere to completely. After all, this prohibits many favorites like crusty bread, meat on the bone, popcorn, hard candy, taffy, chewing gum, and soda pop without any exceptions for celebrations and holidays.
Invisalign clear aligners, on the other hand, are completely removable, allowing the patient to enjoy whatever they like. However, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean your teeth before putting your aligners back in, as plaque or food residue trapped between them and your teeth will be sheltered from the mouth’s natural cleaning process. This allows harmful oral bacteria to breed and cause tooth decay and dental stains. Just remember to wait at least thirty minutes after eating before brushing your teeth so your enamel can recover.
The Freedom from Visible Orthodontic Appliances
When people think of braces, they typically think of awkward teenagers. For better or worse, it’s a lot harder to look cool or suave when you have these irremovable metal contraptions attached to your teeth. Thankfully, Invisalign clear aligners are virtually invisible, ensuring that casual observers won’t even notice them. This can make it a lot easier to smile confidently in work situations or social events so you can make that great first impression.
The Freedom from Discomfort
If there’s one thing that former traditional orthodontic patients can agree on, it’s that braces aren’t always comfortable. Many patients who wore braces as teenagers and Invisalign as adults report that clear aligners are much easier to wear. Since Invisalign clear aligners are made of thin and smooth plastic, they don’t involve any wires or other metal edges that can poke or otherwise irritate the soft tissues in your mouth. While you can expect to feel some pressure when you start wearing a new set of Invisalign trays, this will fade over the first day and is unlikely to result in pain.
Invisalign can be a much more convenient and comfortable treatment than traditional braces. Consulting with your orthodontist can determine if Invisalign is right for you.
About the Practice
Sweet Smiles Dental Design offers compassionate and comprehensive dental care to the people of Castle Rock, CO. Led by Drs. Alison Fitzgerald, Jay Lopez, and Kate Urie, the staff ensures that each patient receives effective and courteous treatment in a calming and welcoming office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as Invisalign clear aligners. To schedule an orthodontic consultation, contact the office online or dial (303) 688-9519.