Malocclusion and dental misalignment can be a cause for serious concern. Crooked teeth can impact comfort and speech, as well as pose a potential threat to dental health.
Misalignment, crowding, and gaps are a common problem easily fixed with orthodontic treatment. In fact, roughly half of all people will require orthodontic correction at some point in the lives.
The real question is how to go about the corrective process, as modern dentistry offers more orthodontic solutions than ever. Let’s take a look at the two most popular options for dental alignment correction: traditional metal braces and clear aligners.
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are a cornerstone of orthodontics. The mere mention of the name conjures images of these metal brackets and wires, and old urban legends of dental appliances picking up radio stations.
These traditional orthodontic devices use brackets cemented to the teeth and connected by wires which are tightened over time to guide teeth into proper alignment. Unfortunately, this creates dietary restrictions, as many sticky and viscous foods get caught in the components. Cleaning is also a mild issue, as brushes and floss cannot adequately reach the crevices and contours the braces create.
Teens and young adults generally get metal braces for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, going through a braces phase is viewed almost as a rite of passage for teens. Braces are also more customizable than ever with colorful bands and brackets, allowing people to express themselves. Furthermore, many teens and younger adolescents lack the discipline required to keep up with clear aligner treatment, so traditional braces easily becomes a great option for orthodontics.
Clear Aligner Systems
Clear aligner systems such as Invisalign are the perfect orthodontic alternative for professional adults and those who may not want to make their treatment so apparent.
These clear aligner trays are custom-made to perfectly fit your teeth and are changed out every two weeks. Each set of trays is progressively straighter than the last, gently realigning your smile over time.
The trays are removable, allowing you to eat all of your favorite foods and perform daily oral hygiene routines without extra hassle. Clear aligners are great for mild to moderate misalignment, though severe misalignment may require traditional braces.
Diligence is also an important factor, as the trays must be worn for 22 hours a day.
To find out which orthodontic treatment is right for you, contact Clark Family Dentistry in Hillsboro to consult with our knowledgeable team.