Invisalign

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth. The process begins with a consultation with an orthodontist, who creates a customised treatment plan using 3D imaging technology. Based on this plan, a series of clear aligners are custom-made for the patient. Each pair of aligners are worn for a few weeks to gradually move the teeth into the desired position.

To ensure effective treatment, aligners should be worn for at least 20-22 hours per day and only removed when eating, drinking (except plain water), brushing, and flossing. The treatment duration typically ranges from 12 to 18 months for most cases.

Invisalign offers several benefits:

• Enhanced aesthetics due to nearly invisible aligners, providing a more discreet treatment option
• Convenience with easy removal for eating, drinking brushing, and flossing, allowing for better oral hygiene due to no metal bands trapping food and plaque
• Comfort from smooth plastic material
• Reduced incidence of issues as Invisalign aligners do not have metal brackets or wires that cause mouth irritation or breakage

However, it is also important to consider the disadvantages and limitations:

• Reduced effectiveness for severe orthodontic issues or complex tooth movements
• Strict compliance with wearing the aligners for the prescribed amount of time each day, which may be challenging for some patients
• More expensive than traditional braces. Prices will also depend on the complexity of the case and the duration of the treatment
• Discomfort or soreness when wearing new aligners, especially at the beginning of each new stage of treatment

To maintain Invisalign, it is recommended to:

• Ensure proper hygiene by cleaning the aligners regularly to prevent the buildup of plaque and bacteria. Rinse the aligners with lukewarm water and brush them gently with a soft toothbrush. After brushing, rinse the aligners once more with lukewarm water. Avoid using toothpaste, coloured soaps, or harsh chemicals, as they may damage or discolour the aligners.
• Avoiding staining by removing aligners before consuming coloured foods or drinks. Brush your teeth before putting the aligners back in to minimise the risk of transferring food particles or bacteria onto the aligners.
• Store aligners in their case when not wearing to protect them from damage and loss. Avoid exposing them to high temperatures as this can warp the aligners.
• Replace aligners based on the orthodontist’s advice. Usually, individuals will replace their set of aligners with a new pair once every week or two.
• Attend all scheduled check-ups with your orthodontist to monitor progress and address any issues.

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces are orthodontic devices consisting of metal brackets bonded to teeth and connected by archwires, with elastic bands holding the archwires in place. They function by applying continuous pressure to the teeth, facilitating gradual movement into the desired position. This pressure initiates a process wherein the tooth becomes slightly loosened, enabling it to shift in the direction of the applied force. Consequently, the bone surrounding the tooth undergoes reshaping to accommodate its new position.

The treatment duration can vary depending on the severity of the misalignment. Typically, it ranges from 1-3 years. Once the braces are removed, a retainer is often worn to prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original position. Adjustments to the braces are typically made every 4 to 8 weeks.

Braces offers several benefits:

• Suitable for all ages.
• Effective in correcting complex dental issues, including severe misalignment and bite problems.
• Orthodontists can achieve precise adjustments due to the greater control over tooth movement.

However, it is also important to consider the disadvantages and limitations:

• Lack of aesthetics due to the visibility of metal brackets and wires of braces.
• Diet restrictions as certain foods such as sticky or hard foods may need to be avoided to prevent damage to the braces.
• Discomfort after adjustments and during the initial stages of wearing braces.
• Challenges in oral hygiene maintenance as it is difficult to clean around the brackets and wires, leading to an increased risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay.
• Traditional braces entails a long treatment duration as it takes about 2 years for extraction cases and shorter for non-extraction cases. The duration varies based on factors such as treatment complexity, age, root length of teeth, bone density, and rate of bone structure turnover.

To maintain traditional braces, it is recommended to:

• Brush teeth after every meal and floss daily using special orthodontic brushes and floss threaders to remove food particles from difficult-to-reach areas.
• Rinse twice daily with an alcohol-free, antibacterial mouthwash.
• Avoid foods that are sticky, hard, or chewy such as chewing gum, caramel, popcorn, and hard candies as these can get stuck in the braces. Cut hard foods into small pieces.
• Schedule regular dental visits for cleaning, routine dental care, adjustments and monitoring progress.

For patients considering orthodontic treatment, it's advisable to schedule a consultation with an experienced orthodontist to discuss treatment options. During this consultation, the orthodontist will assess and recommend the most suitable treatment plan.

In summary, both Invisalign and traditional braces are effective in straightening teeth and correcting bite issues. While Invisalign offers greater comfort and convenience, traditional braces may be more effective for complex cases. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences, treatment goals, and the orthodontist's recommendation.