Did you know that the global orthodontics sector had an estimated value of over €1.2 billion in 2016? What’s more, market experts say that this will grow to more than 2.3 billion in 2023!
That’s how massive the teeth straightening industry has become. This is especially true as more adults, including Irish adults, are choosing to get braces, whether that be metal braces, ceramic braces or aligners such as Invisalign.
If you’ve been thinking of doing the same, you will have many options to choose from, but in this article, we will discuss metal braces vs Invisalign. While the benefits of Invisalign are well-chronicled, it’s not for everyone. There are cases where metal braces could be more effective than Invisalign.
Ready to learn more about cases where braces are a better choice? Keep reading then, as that’s what we’ll share in this post.
If You Have a More Complex Case of Malocclusion
Class 1 malocclusion has an average global prevalence rate of 74.7% making it the most common type. It occurs when the upper teeth slightly overlap the lower teeth. This is one of the bite problems that the Invisalign system can easily treat.
Class 2 malocclusion affects only 20% of the world’s population, but it’s more complex than Class 1. This is when the upper teeth fall too far in front of the lower teeth. It’s also referred to as a severe overbite.
Class 3 malocclusion, also known as an underbite, is the least common. This occurs when the lower teeth overlap the upper teeth.
While Invisalign does move the teeth, it may have a limited effect on more severe bite issues. In these cases, the back teeth, or molars, may require significant repositioning. Ceramic or metal braces may be better than Invisalign for these more complex malocclusion cases.
If You’re Suffering from Impacted Canine Teeth
Globally, an estimated 1% to 3% of the population suffers from a condition called impacted canine tooth. This means that the tooth hasn’t properly emerged through the gums.
Left untreated, impacted teeth can cause issues with the eruption of the nearby teeth. It can also lead to cyst formation or even possible infections. Moreover, an impacted tooth can cause negative changes in a person’s jaw.
Invisalign can help correct minor cases of tooth impaction. However, it may not be as effective on a tooth that grows too far from the gumline. In this case, braces are often a better treatment option.
If You Prefer Fewer “Extra” Cleaning Steps
Invisalign, as convenient as it is thanks to its removable feature, still requires more cleaning steps. You’d need to brush and rinse the trays themselves aside from your teeth and gums. You may also have to use more specific cleaning products to keep the aligners stain- and odour-free.
If you don’t want to be bothered by these extra steps, consider getting braces instead. This way, you can keep doing almost the same oral hygiene routine you’ve always had.
If You’re Not Sure That You Can Keep the Aligners on Most of the Time
If you choose dental braces, you may have to wear these permanent teeth straighteners for up to 24 months. This is longer than Invisalign, but Invisalign needs strict patient adherence too.
That’s because to achieve optimal results with Invisalign, you need to wear the trays for 20 to 22 hours a day. Otherwise, the treatment time would take longer than necessary.
That said, metal or ceramic braces may be a better fit for you if you think you’ll have a hard time meeting the 20- to 22-hour requirement.
Metal Braces vs Invisalign: It Still Depends on Your Needs and Preferences
There you have it, a comparison of metal braces vs Invisalign and why the former might be your best option. If you have a severe bite problem, your orthodontist may recommend braces first. For more minor issues, however, you have the option to get Invisalign instead.
Still can’t decide whether to get braces or Invisalign? Then we can help! Please feel free to contact us now so we can discuss your orthodontic treatment options in out Limerick, Roscrea or Castletroy dental clinics . Did you know that we now have an online consultation room?
