When it comes to straightening your teeth effectively and discreetly Invisalign is the go-to choice, but do you think that another option would suit you better? Join us as we take a look at the 5 main alternatives to Invisalign and find out why each and every one of them just can’t compare to the convenience and flexibility of Invisalign clear aligners.
1. Traditional Metal Braces
These braces are commonly used across the UK and are probably the first treatment that most people think of when discussing orthodontics, but this does not mean that they are the best choice. Whilst children and teenagers are often seen with visible metal structures around their teeth adults generally prefer a less visible option.
Beyond these cosmetic concerns, the noticeable wires and brackets also come with a risk of discomfort, particularly for the cheeks and gums, which are repeatedly rubbed against the metal. This fixed system also makes brushing your teeth or flossing a challenge, despite the braces easily collecting food particles, and patients are often advised to avoid any foods that could damage the braces.
Does this all sound like a hassle you would like to avoid? Invisalign is a metal-free treatment that is largely undetectable - until it’s time to take it out to brush your teeth or enjoy your favourite foods without any changes in your day-to-day life.
2. Ceramic Braces
Moving on to less visible treatments, we have ceramic braces. These braces are nowhere near as noticeable as metal braces as their wires and brackets are made to match the natural colour of your teeth and blend in.
Sounds good so far - but the materials used in the brackets are prone to staining, especially if not cleaned properly, and their structure can still be seen on your teeth when talking or eating. They are also more brittle than their plastic alternatives and are easily chipped, so if you don’t like the sound of having to avoid certain foods or constantly pause your treatment to have your aligners repaired, keep Invisalign at the top of your list.
3. Self-Ligating Braces
Just like ceramic braces, self-ligating braces remain visible on the teeth and are not particularly discrete, especially if you opt for metal self-ligating options. However, unlike most braces, their use of a sliding mechanism instead of elastic bands reduces friction and exposes the teeth and gums to much less pressure than other treatments.
As well as being a more comfortable option, self-ligating braces also offer much shorter treatment times than their alternatives, but this quick-acting treatment can cause discomfort during the first few weeks whilst your teeth get used to it. They are also much more expensive than conventional braces, despite being just as hard to clean and requiring less adjustments, so why not choose Invisalign for a removable option that comes with no metal, no wires, and no visible components.
4. Lingual Braces
Now we come to the first truly invisible treatment - lingual braces. Whilst most fixed braces are attached to the front of your teeth, this system is instead placed behind them to give you all the benefits of fixed metal braces without affecting your appearance.
Most people won’t even notice that you are having your teeth fixed until they see the end results, but this hidden placement does result in some discomfort. Since the system sits behind the teeth it is easy to rub your tongue against it and many patients notice that this results in a lisp during the early stages of treatment.
Keeping your teeth clean throughout your treatment can also be a challenge due to the specialised design and placement of the aligners, so don’t overpay for these expensive and uncomfortable braces just because you are keen to hide your treatment - opt for Invisalign clear aligners today for a comfortable and invisible option.
5. At-Home Clear Aligners
Patients with minor cosmetic issues often narrow down their final choice to at-home aligners or clear aligners from Invisalign. Both treatments use retainers that fit over your teeth rather than wires, and this absence of any metal or excessive pressure makes both of these options the most comfortable and discrete treatments available.
However, the at-home aligners are only effective when used to treat mild cosmetic issues - for more complex misalignments you will need to opt for Invisalign. The lack of professional supervision offered by the at-home options is also a concern, as the treatment may not progress as planned unless it is regularly checked by your dentist. Even the retainers are made using an impression that you take yourself, which will result in incorrectly fitted aligners and ineffective treatment, whereas the Invisalign treatment process combines at-home treatments with in-person check-ups to guarantee the best results.
Invisalign Clear Aligners in London
All of these options are very different, but one simple feature ties them all together - that they cannot compete with the discretion, comfort, and results offered by Invisalign clear aligners.
From Friday 29th to Saturday 30th November 2024 we are offering all of our patients the opportunity to save £1000 with our latest Invisalign special offer, so find out more by clicking here, or take a look at our Invisalign treatments today.
