If you have a bad bite because of misaligned teeth, then your orthodontist might have already told you about Invisalign or even dental braces as a means to correcting the problem. Unfortunately, like most individuals, you may be lost which type of orthodontic treatment you should use. For many adult patients, the Invisalign vs braces debate is something that needs to be resolved.

Understanding the Need for Teeth Alignment

One of the major issues dentists cites why there is a need to maintain teeth in perfect alignment is in the prevention or management of a bad bite. This can grossly interfere with the proper chewing of food. Additionally, and maybe more importantly, a bad bite has been closely associated with a greater risk for the development of dental caries, tooth decay, and gingivitis. These are all signs of a worsening periodontal disease. Furthermore, because the teeth are not in their normal alignment, muscles of the jaws become strained and the unusual stress and strain exerted on teeth can predispose them to break easily.

It is for this reason that teeth realignment must be initiated. Currently, Invisalign and dental braces are the two most preferred methods. But, clearly, which one should you choose?

The Benefits of Invisalign

If you have minor to moderate teeth misalignment, then Invisalign should work for you. These orthodontic devices are made of clear or transparent materials, which should simply come in handy for individuals who don’t want the whole world to know that they are wearing an orthodontic device. The orthodontist or cosmetic dentist will create a digital impression of your bite and from the computer-generated image an orthodontic appliance will be created. This is Invisalign. Ideally, it should be worn 24 hours a day. Dentists often recommend a change-out twice a month. Invisalign does not interfere with speech and is preferred by younger adults aside from its transparent appearance. They are easier to clean and maintain as well.

Unfortunately, if you have back tooth bite problems or have issues in your canines and premolars or simply more complex teeth problems, Invisalign is clearly not for you. For many dentists, Invisalign is only good for people who are very conscious about wearing dental braces. Aside from that it does not help correct major teeth alignment problems.

Why Dental Braces are Better

It is for this reason that dental braces are still preferred by individuals who may have moderate to severe teeth misalignment, bad bites, and diastema. In fact, because dental braces are fixed onto the surface of the teeth, they are more effective in realigning teeth in a significantly shorter time than do Invisalign aligners. The bracket that sits on each tooth and connected by a stainless wire allows minute movements of the teeth that can help in establishing the correct alignment of the teeth. While food particles do have the tendency to get trapped between the brackets and the tooth surface, meticulous care can help improve the braces’ overall functionality.

If you getting dental work for appearance, get the Invisalign. But for optimum functionality and usefulness, adults will still prefer the dental brace.