Invisalign vs Braces in Hood River for Kids: Which is the Better Choice?
As a parent, dental care is one of the biggest concerns regarding your child’s health. When it’s time for your child to get braces, you may wonder what options are available and which would be most suitable for your child. With advancements in orthodontic technology, traditional metal braces are no longer the only option. Invisalign has become a popular alternative for kids and teens alike. But how do these two compare? Let’s dive into orthodontics and explore the differences between Invisalign and braces for kids in Hood River.
What Is Invisalign?
At A Kidz Dental Zone, Invisalign is a series of clear aligners custom-made to fit your child’s teeth. They are made from a smooth, comfortable, and nearly invisible plastic material. Similar to traditional braces, they gradually shift the teeth into their desired position. The treatment process involves wearing a series of these aligners for about 22 hours each day; each replaced every two weeks until we achieve the desired results.
What Are Braces?
Braces have been around for decades. They consist of metal brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by wires. These wires are tightened periodically to apply pressure, shifting the teeth into place over time. Unlike Invisalign, you cannot remove braces until the treatment is complete.
Appearance
One of the biggest concerns for kids when getting braces is how they will look with them on. Traditional metal braces are very noticeable and can make kids self-conscious about their appearance. On the other hand, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and allow kids to maintain a natural smile while undergoing treatment.
1
Comfort
For some patients, braces can cause discomfort due to the metal brackets and wires rubbing against the inside of the mouth. Invisalign aligners are made from smooth plastic and have no sharp edges, making them more comfortable to wear for extended periods.
2
Maintenance
Braces require frequent visits to the orthodontist for adjustments and wire tightening, which can be time-consuming and may disrupt your child’s daily routine. With Invisalign, minimal maintenance is required, as the aligners can be removed for eating and brushing, making it easier for kids to maintain good oral hygiene.
3
Food Restrictions
Braces have many food restrictions, such as hard, sticky, and crunchy foods that can damage the brackets or get stuck in the wires. This can be frustrating for kids who must constantly watch what they eat. With Invisalign, there are no food restrictions, as patients can remove the aligners while eating, allowing kids to enjoy their favorite foods without worry.
4
Treatment Duration
The duration of treatment varies for each child depending on the severity of their case. However, in general, Invisalign treatment tends to take less time than braces. Braces may take 18-24 months to achieve desired results, while Invisalign treatment ranges from 6-18 months.
5
Cost
Cost is always a factor to consider in any medical treatment. Braces are more affordable than Invisalign, making them a more popular option for many families. However, with advancements in technology and the increased availability of Invisalign, the cost difference between the two options is becoming less significant.
6
Compliance
Compliance is critical for either option to be successful. Kids may find it challenging to keep track of their aligners and wear them for the recommended 22 hours daily with Invisalign. On the other hand, braces are not removable, so there is no need to worry about compliance. Parents should consider their child’s level of responsibility and commitment when deciding between the two options.
