Invisalign vs. Standard Braces

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Are you looking to improve your smile? If so, there are several different orthodontic solutions to choose from. Some of the most popular options include Invisalign and standard braces.

To learn more about these trusted orthodontic treatments, call Richards & Associates Orthodontics today! We’re proud to offer both standard braces and Invisalign in Cape Coral, FL.

In this post, we’ll discuss the key differences between standard braces and Invisalign.

Invisalign

Invisalign is the name brand of a popular orthodontic device that moves teeth to the correct position over time. The device utilizes patented SmartTrack thermoplastic aligner material to move teeth.

Unlike regular braces, Invisalign features clear, removable aligner trays that gradually correct your smile. You remove the device when eating and brushing your teeth. The patient must wear one aligner tray for a week or two before switching to the next device in the set. The treatment is finished once all aligner trays have been used.

Standard Braces

Standard braces aim to achieve the same goal as Invisalign, but their methods are much different. For one, regular braces feature metal brackets and wires that are fixed in place. Secondly, you won’t have to worry about switching to a new device; you’ll wear the same oral appliance for the duration of your treatment.

During treatment, your orthodontist will attach brackets to each tooth and then connect a wire to those brackets. Over time, this pressure will work to move teeth to the desired position.

How to Choose?

Deciding on Invisalign or standard braces comes down to personal preference. However, there are also time and cost differences to consider. While Invisalign is usually a shorter treatment period, it’s also more costly.

To get started with one of these reliable treatments, contact Richards & Associates Orthodontics today! We have the leading orthodontist in Cape Coral, FL!

Choose Invisalign in Cape Coral, FL

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When your teenager experiences jaw pain or their permanent teeth are crowded or crooked, it is time to discuss Invisalign. Invisalign in Cape Coral, FL, is a viable and economical solution for dental correction. Rather than metal braces, patients can choose clear aligners made using softer plastic. Learn more about Invisalign for teens and adults to help your family decide if this is the right choice for cosmetic dentistry.

What is Invisalign

Invisalign is a formal system for teenagers and adults who need gentle or minor dental correction. As a form of cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign uses a series of customized clear aligners that fit perfectly onto the patient’s teeth. These aligners slowly shift the teeth and gum tissue for long-term and permanent tooth straightening.

Are Clear Aligners Worth It

We recommend Invisalign at Richards & Associates Orthodontics in Cape Coral, FL, for several reasons. For starters, teens especially may be sensitive about needing cosmetic dentistry using braces. Clear aligners reduce any stigma associated with standing out due to having to wear braces. In addition, these aligners are removable, allowing the patient to maintain clean teeth and proper oral hygiene.

Evaluate Your Teen for Invisalign in Cape Coral or Fort Myers, FL

Call Richards & Associates Orthodontics at 239-936-1808 for our Fort Myers, FL location. If you call 239-458-2002, you will receive the Cape Coral, FL help desk. Let us know the best time and place for your Invisalign for teens and adults. We are currently taking new dental clients for orthodontic care. Whether you are a parent of a teen or an adult with minor dental correction needs, Invisalign is a smart investment. Talk to our assistants about a payment plan to help cover this long-term dental work for you or a child.

When Do I Need Adult Braces vs. Invisalign?

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Your teeth can become misaligned as you age for any number of reasons. Whether you grind your teeth at night, your wisdom teeth crowd the space, or your teeth are just prone to shifting, you can find your smile changing over time. If you want to straighten your teeth when you’re older, we’ll look at when you choose adult braces and when Invisalign is a better option.

Adult Braces Vs. Invisalign 

Adult braces in Cape Coral, FL, are specifically tailored for people who are past childhood and adolescence. They’re typically recommended for people with severe misalignment, as opposed to mild or moderate cases, which can be solved with Invisalign.

Here are a few things to note about the two types of treatment:

  • The visibility of metal braces turns most people off, but invisible options are available even if you’re not eligible for Invisalign. For instance, lingual adult braces are placed behind your teeth so that no one can see them.
  • Depending on your dental plan, adult braces may be more affordable than Invisalign. It’s important to check into the bottom line (e.g., follow-up appointments, etc) of the entire treatment before making your decision.
  • Invisalign is typically more comfortable than braces, as the trays won’t irritate your cheeks or tongue. However, it does require more commitment on the part of the patient, as they’ll need to be removed and replaced regularly while eating and drinking.

See an Orthodontist in Cape Coral

If you have questions about the pros and cons of either option, it’s important to work with a qualifiedorthodontist in Cape Coral, FL, who can answer your questions. At Richards & Associates Orthodontics, our staff can tell you more about how to make the right decision.

Invisalign: What to Expect

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If you were born without straight teeth, choosing braces is a common decision. However, traditional braces involve bulky wires and brackets, which can be uncomfortable and unappealing. This is where Invisalign can help!

In this post, we’ll talk about what to expect with Invisalign treatment.

What’s Invisalign?

Invisalign is a name brand of clear aligners used to straighten teeth. The patient will receive a set of aligners that don’t have any metal brackets or wires. To reach optimal results, you’ll need to change to a new aligner tray every week or two.

Think Invisalign may be right for you? If so, contact Richards & Associates Orthodontics today for outstanding Invisalign treatment in Fort Myers, FL!

How Does Invisalign Work?

Just like standard braces, Invisalign gradually moves teeth over time. However, rather than using metal brackets and wires, Invisalign aligners feature a powerful plastic to straighten teeth. Once your teeth have moved properly, you’ll switch to a new aligner to continue the process. Each new aligner is shaped closer and closer to your desired goal.

What’s the Treatment Process?

Invisalign first starts with a consultation by an Invisalign-trained doctor. This professional will examine your teeth, gums, and bites to determine if you’re a good candidate for the treatment. This step is also used to map out a customized digital treatment plan for your specific needs. This plan even shows a step-by-step transformation of your smile!

Once the plan is approved and your aligners are developed in a lab, you’ll receive them in the mail. Each aligner must be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day, and you’ll change to a new aligner every 1 to 2 weeks. You’ll have routine visits with your orthodontist to check the progress and answer any questions.

If you’re ready to give Invisalign a try, call Richards & Associates Orthodontics today to work with the leading orthodontist in Fort Myers, FL!

5 Benefits of Invisalign Treatment

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Invisalign can do wonders for your smile! This orthodontic treatment involves using clear aligners that move your teeth over time. Made of strong plastic, these aligners are designed to move your teeth in a matter of months. Furthermore, the results are incredible!

In this post, we’ll discuss even more benefits of Invisalign treatment.

Almost invisible

The appearance of Invisalign is loved by many. This is especially true when you compare them to traditional braces. Rather than using bulky metal wires, Invisalign features a clear plastic that’s essentially invisible! This means no one can even tell you’re wearing the device.

Removable

Invisalign is also removable! The device must be removed before eating, brushing, and flossing. If you have ever had standard braces, you know how beneficial this can be. Invisalign allows you to eat and drink like normal without metal wires getting in the way!

Think Invisalign may be right for you? If so, contact Richards & Associates Orthodontics today for our exceptional Invisalign treatment in Fort Myers, FL!

Comfortable

As Invisalign features clear plastic trays that fit over your teeth, they’re very comfortable to wear. You’ll probably feel some pressure at first, but this subsides as you get used to them.

Better dental hygiene

With metal braces, food can easily get trapped between the brackets and wires. Even with the best brushing techniques, removing all of this food can be challenging. This can lead to a buildup of bacteria, potentially causing dental issues. As Invisalign aligners are removed before eating, you don’t have to deal with these complications!

Faster treatment time

Depending on your specific situation, Invisalign treatment could be finished in as little as six months! However, again, it does depend on the complexity of your smile. Invisalign often features a shorter time frame compared to standard braces.

If you’re ready to start Invisalign treatment, choose Richards & Associates Orthodontics today. We have the most trusted orthodontist in Fort Myers, FL!

How to Choose Invisalign Clear or Metal Braces for Teens

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For teens in Cape Coral and Fort Myers, Florida, these are the years when the dentist first introduced braces. Consider Invisalign clear aligners if your teen needs orthodontics to straighten their teeth. Determine whether metal braces or clear plastic aligners are the right option for your teenager at Richards & Associates Orthodontics.

Metal Braces for Teens

Metal braces are the standard type of orthodontics used to straighten teeth for teens. The teen years are the preferred time of life for realigning teeth. This is when a teenager forms their adult bones, including having all their adult teeth.

Metal braces involve cementing metal brackets to the front of teeth. Rubber bands move teeth and separate them as the teen wears the braces. Typically, braces are worn for about two years before they are removed and are only needed once in a person’s lifetime.

Invisalign for Teens

Invisalign for teenagers is an excellent alternative to metal braces for several reasons. Metal braces are permanently affixed to your teen’s teeth, which could cause damage if the brackets are broken off during treatment. Invisalign does not contain any metal that could poke or be abrasive to the inside of your child’s mouth.

Benefits of Clear Aligners for Teens

In addition, Invisalign is a clear retainer that aligns teeth with minimal changes to their appearance. You cannot tell the teen is wearing Invisalign compared to metal braces.

If your teen has confidence issues or wants to avoid being bullied for wearing braces, Invisalign clear aligners are a less noticeable method of straightening teeth.

Take Your Teen to the Orthodontist in FL Today

Now is the ideal time to see if your teen qualifies for orthodontics in Cape Coral or Fort Myers, FL. Contact us at 239-458-2002 to see if your teen is a candidate for orthodontics at Richards & Associates Orthodontics.