Picking the Clear Braces that are Best for You

When it came to straightening teeth, there used to be just one option: traditional metal braces. But these bulky brackets and wires are no longer the single means of straightening – and that makes orthodontic treatment far friendlier, especially for adults. Adult patients aren’t comfortable wearing noticeable braces on their front teeth, especially at work or in social settings. But that doesn’t mean they should miss out on the chance to get gorgeously straight smiles.

With today’s technology, alternative orthodontics have become increasingly popular and accessible. Right here in Dalton, we offer two different types of orthodontic treatment. Patients interested in clear braces can explore either Six Month Smiles or Invisalign as a treatment option. But how can you tell which one will be ideal for your needs? We’ve put together a quick breakdown below that addresses the top pros and cons of each treatment option. While this serves as general advice, there’s no way to know what’s best for your personal teeth until you meet with a professional – schedule a consultation today.

Choosing Between Invisalign and Six Month Smiles

Invisalign Breakdown: When it’s the Right Treatment

Invisalign is the better-known option of the two treatments. It consists of clear plastic trays called aligners. These fit over the teeth and sit snugly in place, allowing your smile to show even during orthodontic treatment. By switching to new trays on a preset schedule, you receive new aligners that gradually shift the teeth. By the end of your treatment (which is an average of 12 months long), you’ll have a straight smile – and you won’t have had to make compromises along the way.

• Invisalign Pros – Invisalign is an extremely subtle orthodontic treatment – the clear aligners can actually be completely unnoticeable. If you’re looking for an option that won’t impact your confidence at work, this is a great choice. Because the aligners are fully removable, you’re also able to maintain your regular diet, and you don’t have to get special tools to be able to brush and floss. Invisalign is also smooth and comfortable in your mouth, so your lips and tongue don’t snack on brackets or wires. Invisalign also has increased control over straightening and can improve more severe malocclusions than Six Month Smiles.
• Invisalign Cons – When comparing Invisalign to Six Month Smiles, the first thing most patients notice is the difference in treatment time. With Six Month Smiles, it’s all in the name – straightening takes just about six months for most patients. Invisalign tends to take about 12 months. Invisalign also tends to be accompanied by a higher price tag than the alternative, since there’s usually more involved in treatment.

Ideal Six Month Smiles Patients

Unlike Invisalign, Six Month Smiles does make use of brackets and wires. But these are clear plastic, and far less noticeable than traditional braces. Six Month Smiles is ideal for patients with cosmetically crooked teeth but a well-aligned bite. The brackets are best at moving the front teeth.

• Six Month Smiles Pros – Treatment is faster than Invisalign, typically completed in six months. It’s also similarly unobtrusive and patient-friendly. Six Month Smiles costs less than Invisalign because there are fewer office visits and fewer adjustments, and a shorter overall treatment time.
• Six Month Smiles Cons – Like traditional braces, Six Month Smiles’ bracket and elastic system is bonded to the teeth and remains in place for the duration of treatment. This means that patients may need to adjust their daily eating regimens and their oral hygiene. Some patients may want a less noticeable treatment option than clear brackets. Six Month Smiles also cannot accomplish as sophisticated straightening as Invisalign

So, which treatment is right for you? If you have strong feelings about either, or are uncertain about which path to take, we’re here to help. Reach out today for a consultation.

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