By: Larissa Fong

Photo by cottonbro studio from Pexels https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-in-latex-gloves-holding-plastic-jaw-6528782/

Dental braces are a prominent orthodontic treatment that allows for the correction of a variety of dental issues such as crooked teeth, crowded teeth, gaps, and malocclusion. Malocclusion is a prevalent dental complication that occurs when upper and lower teeth fail to align when the mouth is closed. Typically, malocclusion is treated with braces; however, surgery may be required in severe cases. Neglecting treatment can lead to significant health concerns, including tooth decay and loss, gum disease, enamel damage, and jaw problems. Within the field of orthodontic treatments, Invisalign and traditional braces project as the foremost choices, offering solutions for individuals seeking effective tooth alignment for both health and cosmetic purposes.

Firstly, Invisalign utilizes clear aligners created from computer-generated images and impressions taken by a dental professional, which are used to develop a series of molds to align teeth over several months by forcing the teeth into their new positions. In contrast, traditional braces make use of fixed wires to ‘pull’ the teeth into alignment. Due to advances in 3D scanning technology and the flexible material involved in making the aligners, the cost of Invisalign can be similar tobraces.

Above all, Invisalign offers a clear invisible look which may be more desirable for several individuals. Additionally, it is significantly easier to brush and floss teeth since the plastic aligner trays can be removed. Before eating, clients remove their retainers and do not have to change what they eat and how they eat. For example, people who have traditional braces may have difficulty eating popcorn since it can get stuck underneath the wires and may be difficult to remove. If something is wedged between the teeth and gums, the gum could become inflamed and swollen. However, there are ‘Hulless Popcorn Kernels’ created to be crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, providing a safe option for popcorn lovers who have traditional braces. Moreover, back-up trays can be used if current trays are cracked or broken. Instead of worrying and rushing to book an emergency orthodontist appointment, Invisalign aligners do not need to be urgently fixed. Furthermore, previously gathered data has shown there are fewer mouth and gum problems with Invisalign since retainers are made of special plastic that are fitted to each patient’s mouth. Unlike traditional braces, there are typically no cuts on the inside cheeks or salt washes to deal with.

Conversely, Invisalign cannot correct complicated orthodontic issues, such as when an impacted tooth remains stuck in gum tissue or bone due to various reasons. Additionally, there is a risk of misplacing or forgetting to wear the aligners. For individuals lacking discipline, reinserting aligners into the mouth after eating and brushing is less than ideal, as the retainers need to be worn for a specific number of hours to ensure effective treatment.

Secondly, traditional braces consist of metal brackets adhered to the teeth and connected by wire. Consequently, there is no risk of misplacing or forgetting to wear the braces. In addition, they require periodic tightening every 4-6 weeks, ensuring the application of steady pressure that will gradually straighten and align the teeth and jaw.

Traditional braces offer a more effective and suitable solution for more complex dental issues such as impacted teeth. However, some individuals find the appearance of traditional braces to be a source of self-consciousness in various social settings. Beyond appearance, the discomfort associated with braces and maintaining oral hygiene are challenging for several individuals. An increase in the risk of plaque and bacteria buildup may lead to tooth decay and stains on teeth once the braces are removed. Moreover, traditional braces come with dietary restrictions, limiting the consumption of hard and sticky foods which could potentially damage the braces. A breakage can significantly prolong the overall duration of treatment plans as the braces will not work until they are repaired.

In conclusion, many patients will attest that dental braces are worth the cost and discomfort because of the many health benefits they provide, including preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw problems. Orthodontic treatment allows for better oral health, easier cleaning, reduced chances of future health complications, enhanced aesthetics, and confidence.

Works Cited

1. Cleveland Clinic medical professional. “Dental Braces: Types, Uses, Care.” Cleveland Clinic, 13 Jan. 2023, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24601-teeth-braces. Accessed January 1st, 2024.

2. Cleveland Clinic medical professional. “Malocclusion: Classes, Definition & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, 8 Nov. 2021, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22010-malocclusion. Accessed January 1st, 2024.

3. Dental Associates. “Traditional Braces.” Dental Associates, 2023, www.dentalassociates.com/our-services/braces-orthodontics/traditional-braces-phase-2#:~:text=Traditional%20braces%20consist%20of%20standard,teeth%20and%20align%20your%20jaw. Accessed January 2nd, 2024.

4. Maple Dental Health. “Invisalign 101 .” Maple Dental Health, 31 Jan. 2019, www.mapledentalhealth.com/blog/invisalign-101-guide/. Accessed January 1st, 2024.

5. Mount Sinai. “Impacted Tooth.” Mount Sinai, 2023, www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/impacted-tooth#:~:text=An%20impacted%20tooth%20remains%20stuck,This%20results%20in%20impacted%20teeth. Accessed January 1st, 2024.

6. Orthodontist Perth. “Invisalign Vs Braces (The Pros and Cons of Each).” Theorthodontists.Com, 28 Nov. 2018, www.theorthodontists.com.au/blog/invisalign-vs-braces-the-pros-and-cons-of-each. Accessed January 1st, 2024.

7. Salaita Orthodontics. “Foods to Avoid with Braces.” Salaita Orthodontics, 22 Nov. 2023, www.westervillebraces.com/patient/foods-to-avoid-with-braces/#:~:text=Popcorn%20hulls%20can%20get%20stuck,safer%20for%20people%20with%20braces. Accessed January 1st, 2024.

8. Walt Orthodontics. “Is Orthodontic Treatment Worth It? – Orthodontist Vaughan: Braces Vaughan: Invisalign Vaughan.” Waltortho, 1 May 2023, www.waltortho.com/is-orthodontic-treatment-worth-it/#:~:text=Many%20patients%20will%20attest%20that,disease%2C%20and%20even%20jaw%20problems. Accessed January 1st, 2024.

9. CornPopper.ca. “Gourmet White Hulless Popcorn Kernels – 2 Lbs.” CornPopper.Ca, 2024, cornpopper.ca/products/flyer-foods-gourmet-white-hulless-popcorn-kernels-2-lbs. Accessed January 1st, 2024.