Tag: retainer

Is Invisalign Worth it for You? Here’s the Truth

Is Invisalign Worth it for You? Here’s the Truth

Invisalign·

Is Invisalign Worth it – If you want to fix your smile or teeth properly, the idea of ​​wearing metal braces for three or four years seems like a bad choice.

Maybe you should think about using Invisalign. But is Invisalign the equivalent of braces? Will it fix overbites, underbites, and more as well as regular braces?

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign is transparent and removable. It doesn’t have cables or elastic bands, so it’s a better aesthetic choice.

Also Read Difference Between Invisalign and Braces That Should You Know

Is Invisalign worth it to get ?

Your orthodontist or dentistry is the best person to teach you. They will perform a detailed dental examination and let you know if you are a good candidate for Invisalign or not. This decision will be based on the condition of your teeth and your lifestyle goals.

While Invisalign claims to offer the same efficiency as braces with better aesthetics, there are situations where braces have a clear advantage. Also, there is a cost factor involved.

In cases of malocclusion (improper bite), which is a condition in which the teeth are not aligned properly, most dentists recommend using a clear straightener (Invisalign) as this is a good option.

Invisalign show that the following patients respond well to treatment:

  • Patients with small crowding teeth
  • Expansion (lower and upper teeth do not fit when chewing)
  • Intrusion (teeth pushed into gums)
  • Cases that do not require braces and can be managed by an active or passive follower
  • In the above case, both Invisalign and braces will work, although braces are cheaper.
  • Small tooth gap between teeth (less than 4 mm)
  • Minor tooth rotation (bent teeth)
  • Orthodontic recurrence (you had braces in the past, but now your teeth are shifting back to their previous position)

Invisalign does not have a good success rate in individuals with the following conditions:

  • Severe crowding of teeth
  • Bad bite (open bite and deep bite) In this condition, the upper and lower teeth are not in the correct position when the jaw is closed.
  • Facial bone growth problems
  • Severe rotation
  • Tip and torque control (a kind of tooth deformity)
  • Impacted teeth
  • Cases of intercuspation (poor relationship between the upper and lower teeth behind the jaw)

Therefore, you should discuss this with your dentist. Together, you can create the best plan for the management of your dental problems.

Some Other Benefits of Invisalign

While Invisalign seems like the better choice in some ways, there’s a lot more to consider here. The invisible plate (aligner) can be removed for a few hours if you have an important presentation or event or date to visit.

Removing and cleaning the Invisalign tray is also much easier. It’s also handy while you’re eating, or brushing your teeth. You can pull it out and you’re good to go. But, with braces, flossing in and around them can be painful at times.

Invisalign also moves your teeth much more slowly than traditional braces. You will feel less discomfort over time.

The fixed support brackets cause canker sores where they rub against the soft tissues of our mouth, which can be very bothersome for people who wear braces. This is not something Invisalign users need to worry about. Definitely a big plus of it.

Easy oral hygiene

Invisalign can also make it easier for you to maintain oral hygiene. Simply remove your Invisalign aligners before you eat or drink anything other than water.

Brush and thread as usual. You will then need to reattach your straightener to ensure there are no delays with your treatment.

With metal brackets and wires, it can sometimes be difficult to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth. Leaving food particles trapped in your braces can cause plaque and tartar to build up. You can increase your risk of gum disease.

Conclusion

If you’re still asking, is Invisalign worth it, the answer depends on your unique situation. Braces and Invisalign have their advantages and disadvantages. The best thing is to go to the dentistry and get an honest evaluation of your teeth and where you are.

If Invisalign is right for you and your needs, your dentistry can let you know.

References

Difference Between Invisalign and Braces That Should You Know

Difference Between Invisalign and Braces That Should You Know

Braces, Invisalign·

If you wonder what is difference between Invisalign and Braces, actually both of them can treat crooked teeth. But both have some differences. Of course, unevenly arranged teeth make you reluctant to smile and laugh. In fact, they tend to cover their mouths when speaking. Don’t let this discourage you. This is because it can still be overcome with Invisalign and braces.

Invisalign and braces are orthodontic treatments designed to straighten teeth. Teeth that are neatly lined up will definitely make your smile more beautiful and you will be confident.

However, you must know, even though the two treatments do have the same function, the installation method, price, and also the level of comfort of use are different.

Also Read Tips for Choosing The Color of Braces

Invisalign and Braces

Braces are a form of dental care that is commonly used by many people. This tool consists of a metal bracket that is attached to each tooth.

Later the bracket will be connected by a tight wire gradually. This process functions to change the teeth in the desired direction. Braces are quite popular because they are decorated with small rubber bands of various colors. This can add to the uniqueness of the braces users themselves.

Next there is Invisalign, this is a dental treatment made of transparent plastic without wires and brackets. This tool can be easily removed and installed by the user.

Because it is more compact and easy to use, many people also use Invisalign to keep their teeth neat and even.

Difference Between Invisalign and Braces

Although these tools serve to straighten teeth, both Invisalign and braces have their own differences. Therefore, you can consider both of them first before choosing one. General differences between the two :

1. Shape and Color

One of the most common reasons people use Invisalign is that it is clear and transparent. Its invisible form makes many other people not notice that you are wearing it.

While the use of braces or wires, the tool is attached to each tooth and looks like a fence attached to it. This of course makes the braces easier to see when you talk or smile

2. How to Install

Installing braces cannot be done alone and must be done by a dentist. Where in the installation process later, metal brackets will be glued to the teeth, then fastened by wire and rubber bands.

Next, the bracket is given glue using a special light so that it sticks to the teeth and doesn’t come off easily.

In the Invisalign tool, later the doctor will make a tray that looks like your teeth. This tool can be removed and installed by the user himself.

3. How You Clean It

Since the shape of Invisalign and braces is different, the way to clean your teeth will also be different, yes.

In people who use braces or wires, usually he will have difficulty cleaning the remaining food on his teeth. This is because of the many indentations that make food residue trapped in the wire. Usually, these are difficult for a toothbrush to reach.

Worse, if the braces is not immediately cleaned it will trigger other dental health problems. For example, plaque and tartar, which will make teeth look yellower.

Length of Treatment Between Invisalign and Braces

In Invisalign treatment you will need to have the device in place for 20 to 22 hours each day, and it may be removed while sleeping or eating, for example.

Tray replacement needs to be done every 2 weeks, which means you need to make regular visits to the dentist every 4-6 weeks.

Every two weeks, the new tray you use will feel a little different. Because when replaced, the tray will be redesigned to shift and move the teeth to the desired position.

The duration of treatment using the tray is approximately 6-18 months. However, it can vary depending on the dental condition and discipline or not the patient uses Invisalign every day.

Then for braces, generally you don’t have to bother cleaning or removing it every day. This is because the wire will stick to the teeth for 24 hours. For the problem of check-up visits, you need to go to the dentist once a month.

The doctor will change the band attached to the bracket and wire to tighten. As for the length of care using braces , generally it will be done for 2 years to 3 years.

This will also depend on the condition of the teeth and how regularly the patient checks with the dentist.

Ask the Doctor for Advice

It should be noted that we cannot just choose which dental treatment to use. The reason is, the doctor will adjust the condition of the teeth with the treatment that is recommended later.

If your teeth don’t have any major shape problems, for example, only slightly misaligned and crowded teeth, slightly loose teeth, overbite (class II div 2 malocclusion), these can still be treated with Invisalign.

Meanwhile, in more complex or severe dental problems, such as crossbite, very crowded teeth, posterior open bite and other jaw problems, these should be treated with braces.

Conclusion

Whichever treatment option you choose is not just about getting a beautiful smile, it’s also about improving your overall oral health.

Therefore, before choosing between Invisalign or braces, it is best to consult a dentist directly.

References

Is It Necessary to Use a Dental Retainer After Removing Braces?

Is It Necessary to Use a Dental Retainer After Removing Braces?

Braces·

Dental Retainer After Removing Braces? Maybe you or some people will feel uncomfortable because they have to use another tool in their mouth. It’s because you using the braces to deal with messy teeth. After that, you are usually recommended to use a dental retainer after removing braces soon.

Actually, do you really need a dental retainer? Then, what should be considered when choosing this dental retainer?

Also Read Foods That You Can and Can’t Eat After Wearing Braces

Why do you need a dental retainer?

The most common reason why you need to wear a retainer is to maintain the position of the newly repaired tooth.
This applies if you have just finished with braces to keep your teeth in their proper position.

The function of this dental retainer is very important in the process of straightening your teeth. Reporting from the Oral Health Foundation, dental retainers will hold the tooth structure that has been fixed with braces. Then your gums and teeth will begin to adapt.

If you don’t apply this method, your teeth that have been straightened with braces can shift again later. This can make your previous use of braces useless. And later will cause a condition called relapse.

Usually the doctor will determine how long a person should use this dental retainer. Some use it for three months, a year, or maybe more than that. It could also be, some are instructed by the doctor to use a retainer throughout the day or a certain time, depending on the dental problems you are experiencing.

How to choose the right dental retainer for you?

For the problem of the type of retainer that should be used, you should first discuss it with your dentist. Everyone needs a different dental retainer.

This can be from the type, duration of use, and position of use. There are retainers that are used in front, but there are also those that are used behind the teeth so they are not too visible. This what type of dental retainer that can you use depends on the dentist recommendations :

1. Self-detachable retainer

This is the type of retainer that you come across a lot. Because this dental retainer is removable. Dental retainers like this will be easier to clean after you eat. Because, you can remove it first when you want to eat and clean it directly.

However, higher awareness is needed to use this model of dental retainer. Although this can make it easier for you, there are also disadvantages:

  • It can be lost if you don’t store it properly.
  • Easily damaged if left lying carelessly.
  • Causes excessive saliva production or hypersalivation.
  • Bacteria are more prone to grow on it because the retainer will often go in and out of your mouth later.

Although this dental retainer has its drawbacks, it will be easier for you to keep this type of retainer clean than others. The main problem with using this type is that you often forget or don’t use it regularly. Of course it can make teeth that have been trimmed messy again.

2. Permanent dental retainer

This permanent retainer consists of solid wire braided in a curve to conform to the exact shape of your teeth. These retainers are also known as lingual wires or bonded retainers. This type of retainer cannot be removed by yourself except by your dentist.

Dentists say, the potential for teeth to fall apart will be smaller if you use this permanent retainer. Because, this retainer will not be removed by using it too often and is always attached to the teeth to maintain the position of the teeth intact.

Dental retainer materials that you may often seen

You should also recognize the commonly used retainer materials and materials. Consult a dentist or orthodontist to find out the right type according to your condition.

1. Wire retainer

Even though it’s made of wire, this retainer can still be removed. This retainer is made of thin metal wire and has a slight mixture of plastic and acrylic. This wire retainer will be used along the lower teeth as well as the upper teeth.

Benefits:

  • Can be adjusted in more detail or better to the position of the teeth than other types of retainers.
  • More durable.
  • Can last for years if cared for properly.

Weakness:

  • The use of this type of dental retainer slightly affects your ability to speak. That’s because there is a foreign object in the mouth.
  • The wire can irritate your lips and cheeks so proper precautions are necessary.

You can also choose this type of wire dental retainer which is transparent. This applies if you don’t want to use colored ones.

2. Plastic retainer

Plastic retainers include the type that can be removed and installed by yourself as well. These dental retainers are also often referred to as vacuum retainers, or thermoplastic retainers. These retainers are molded to match the new position of your teeth after using braces.

Because of their transparent shape and color, plastic retainers are often confused with Invisalign. However, Invisalign has a function like braces and the material is more flexible than this transparent retainer.

There are three brands of dental retainers that are most widely used by people, namely Vivera, Essix, and Zendura. These plastic retainers have become more popular and are often used compared to wire retainers.

Benefits:

  • Not very visible because the color is transparent.
  • Feels more comfortable than the wire type because the material is not too thick.
  • Doesn’t really affect your speech.

Weakness:

  • If it is damaged, broken, or cracked, it cannot be repaired and must be replaced altogether.
  • Can warp if exposed to hot sun.
  • The more often it is used, the transparent color may change.

Conclusion

To find out which type is good and suitable for you, discuss with your doctor and adjust it to the budget you have. The retainer you choose must be right, because you will be using it for a long time, maybe even years.

In addition, you are also advised to have regular check-ups with the dentist to find out whether the retainer needs to be repaired or made new. If it is damaged or cracked, consult your dentist immediately.

References