What’s Better – Invisalign in Heath, OH or Traditional Braces?

You’re looking for the best way to correct your malocclusion (improper bite) and wondering which will be better – Invisalign in Heath, OH or traditional braces. Thankfully, your local orthodontic expert has the answers you need. As you read on, he’ll explain the factors that determine which route is the best for you.

What is the Invisalign Method?

Many people are familiar with the notion of traditional braces being the standard for correcting malocclusion. Being that it’s one of the more recent methods developed, you may not be familiar with an alternative – the Invisalign process.

It involves the use of clear, plastic trays that are custom-made to fit your teeth comfortably at the various phases of your treatment. The process starts with your dentist taking several X-rays and measurements, which he’ll use to determine whether you’re a good candidate for the procedure.

After the ‘green light’ is given for you to move forward, your dentist will use special technology to pre-plan your entire treatment process. Thus, he’ll know how many trays you’ll need and how long the process will take to fully correct your teeth.

When Traditional Braces are the Better Option

If your orthodontic needs can’t be met with the Invisalign method, then your dentist in Heath, OH may recommend traditional braces. Here are some of the benefits of the taking this route:

• Metal braces are the better choice for fixing complex problems like crowding or a severe bite issue.
• Although the treatment process can be a little longer, people who wear braces tend to feel encouraged when they go in to get their wire tightened, because it symbolizes progress to them.
• Another advantage of wearing metal braces is that you won’t have the temptation of removing them for too long, thus compromising your treatment process. Instead, you’ll be assured to stay on schedule.

Again, when attempting to determine which process is better than the other, it will come down your specific needs and desires. They are both very effective means of correcting your bite.

What Happens When Your Treatment is Done?

Whether you and your dentist choose to go with the Invisalign or traditional braces method, you will need to wear a set of retainers after the treatment process is done. This is because your teeth will still be unstable while the bone underneath your gums forms and settles into the new position.

Typically, you’ll follow these guidelines for wearing your retainers:

• Wear them 12 to 22 hours a day for the first 3 to 6 months after your treatment.
• You’ll also need to wear them at night for the first 6 to 12 months, and maybe beyond.
• Then, after a year of time has passed, you’ll only need to wear your retainers 3 to 5 times a week.

To schedule reach out to your local dentist today!

About the Author

For nearly a decade, Dr. Timothy G. Wigal has been providing expert care to his patients. Still, this graduate of the West Virginia University School of Dentistry works hard to expand his knowledge by taking continuing education courses annually. Additionally, Dr. Wigal maintains memberships with several professional organizations to stay abreast of the latest advancements in the field. He practices at Wigal Orthodontics and can be reached for more information through his website.