Braces

Braces require a dentist or orthodontist to glue a small bracket to each tooth using dental cement. A wire is then fed through each of the brackets with a tight band placed over the wire to secure it to the bracket beneath. The tension of the wire and the band creates a pressure that slowly moves the tooth into alignment. Every couple of months the braces are tightened to pull the teeth further into position.

Braces are fitted to correct the alignment of the jaw and to move teeth for aesthetic purposes. They can be fitted for anywhere from six months to two years.

There are three common types of braces

  1. Metal – a traditional type of braces
  2. Ceramic – same as a metal type but less noticeable
  3. Lingual – these are attached to the back of the tooth so they are practically invisible. However, they are tougher to keep clean and can irritate the tongue.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a series of clear retainers for the teeth, each slightly changing in shape to make small adjustments to your teeth and correct alignment. Every few weeks a new retainer is used. The dentist or orthodontist creates a series of retainers specific to your requirements.

 

What are the similarities between braces and Invisalign?

  • Both used to straighten teeth
  • Both can be discrete with a barely noticeable appearance
  • Costs can be similar depending on treatment requirements

What are the differences between braces and Invisalign?

  • Invisalign, although recommended to wear at all times, can be removed as required, braces are permanently fixed for the duration of your treatment
  • Both require frequent check-ups at the dentist, braces usually every 4-6 weeks and Invisalign retainers need to be changed almost fortnightly, however, some can be collected in advance
  • Braces are extremely efficient at correcting more complex dental issues, Invisalign is for smaller adjustments
  • Braces can break from time to time and will require an emergency dentist visit

 

Which one is best for you?

Both braces and the Invisalign have benefits, but of course, there are a number of factors that you need to consider to determine which is best for you. Before choosing between the two, make sure you consider the following:

  • Cost – consider the total cost of both, how often payments need to be made and what your health insurance might cover
  • Comfort – braces can be considered more painful as they move the teeth a lot quicker than Invisalign does, however, most patients do achieve quicker and more noticeable results with braces. Invisalign can be removed whenever, but keeping in mind that removing them is slowing down the process even more.
  • Maintenance – Invisalign is arguably less maintenance, particularly as they can be removed for thorough cleaning. Whereas braces need a lot of TLC to keep clean.

Clear Correct Braces Alternative FAQ’s

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions in relation to clear correct braces.

If your question is not there please feel free to call one of our three clinics for an answer to your question.

Clear Correct are clear plastic aligners that patients wear in a series to achieve their desired result.

Each new aligner is designed to move teeth slightly over the course of several months to a couple of years, depending on the level of crookedness or crowding.

Patients will first get an impression of their teeth, and a mold will be made from that impression. Aligners are designed to fit over or “snap-on” to the teeth, much like a custom mouthguard might (except much lighter and thinner!).

ClearCorrect aligners are made from a polyurethane resin that leads its class in stress retention, impact, and cracks resistance, overall clarity, and stain resistance.

In other words, when cared for properly, ClearCorrect aligners are nearly invisible for the length of treatment.

Every patient will have a different treatment time, as everyone’s mouth is different, as well as everyone’s goals are different.

Some minor crowding cases can be finished in 6-8 months, while other patients may need to wear their aligners for up to two years.

This treatment time is consistent with fixed braces (and sometimes faster) and patients always get the best results when they adhere to their treatment plan properly.

For the best results and to finish treatment within the estimated treatment time, patients should wear their aligners at least 22 hours a day. The only times they should be taken out is to play sport, eat and brush their teeth.

Patients typically get a new set of aligners every 2-4 weeks, depending on their treatment schedule.

Whenever something new is in the mouth such as braces, a new mouth guard, retainers like clearcorrect, a dull ache or tenderness during the first day or two wearing a new aligner is not uncommon.

This minor discomfort is normal and shouldn’t last long, usually a few days until you get used to the new position your teeth are moving into.

Patients can take an over-the-counter pain reliever and eat softer foods during this time.

ClearCorrect aligners are easy to clean, and it is important to do this every day.

We advise patients that when they brush their teeth, take a few seconds to also scrub their aligners with cool water, a little non-abrasive toothpaste, and your toothbrush.

This step will help keep your aligners fresh and clear.

Never soak your aligners in hot or warm water as this can warp the plastic and make them fit incorrectly. Which would ruin all your hard work.

If your toothbrush bristles can’t reach a section of your aligner there are brushes you can buy that have longer bristle heads.

Keeping them clean is important for many reasons as they can smell & taste terrible if you don’t keep them clean.

An initial consultation is always necessary when considering ClearCorrect or any orthodontic treatment.

You might be surprised by how well ClearCorrect can work to correct crooked or overcrowded teeth. Talk with your dentist about your concerns to find out if ClearCorrect is right for you.

To learn more about your specific case call one of our three dental clinics to book an appointment with one of our qualified dentists.

If your insurance has an orthodontic benefit, you may be eligible for coverage. If you are in doubt just give us or your private health provider a call to ask. Some providers now have a very quick-to-use chat feature on their websites as well which could speed up the process as well.