Find out what makes invisible braces so unique from other kinds.

You are ready to straighten your smile and you know that getting braces from your Naples dentists Drs. Richard and Maria Linden is the right choice for you. But what orthodontic option will you get? Are traditional braces going to give you the results you want or can you get that straighter smile with a more revolutionary approach like Invisalign? Which is the ideal treatment for you?

Braces vs. Invisalign

When you hear your Naples, FL orthodontists talk about braces more often then not you imagine the metal brackets and wires. However, things have changed for the better when it comes to regular braces. Now patients can get brackets and wires that more closely match the shade of your teeth so they are more subtle and discreet than regular metal. Also, some types like lingual braces can even be cemented to the back of your teeth so they are even less obvious.

Invisalign is created with full discreetness in mind, as it is practically invisible. These clear, plastic aligners are custom-made to fit over your teeth to shift them into the proper position. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks, after which you replace it with the next set in your treatment.

So which one is right for you?

Here are some factors to consider before talking to your dentists in Naples about braces:

Wearing your Braces

Traditional braces are cemented to the front of your teeth (and sometimes the back) so they have to be worn at all times. Invisalign, on the other hand, can be removed to brush and floss your teeth and before mealtimes.

Length of treatment

You will wear your traditional braces all day everyday for an average of 2 years. Of course, this treatment time may be longer or shorter depending on the severity of your condition. Invisalign should be worn for at least a minimum of 22 hours each day and the length of treatment fluctuates between 6 to 18 months.

Cleaning

You will continue to brush and floss normally regardless of the type of braces you opt for. It can be more challenging to clean your teeth with traditional braces and you’ll want to be gentle so you don’t damage anything. Invisalign can be removed prior to brushing and flossing so nothing in your oral care routine needs to change.

Seeing your dentist in Naples, FL

You will see us about every month while wearing traditional braces and about every four to six weeks with Invisalign.

After treatment

For both Invisalign and traditional braces you’ll need to wear a retainer afterwards to maintain your new smile. After a few months you may only need to wear your retainer at night.

If you are ready to find out which orthodontic option is right for your dental needs then turn to Linden Dental, the smile experts in Naples, FL.