November 2022 - Bay Area Orthodontics

Options for Teeth Straightening

Straightening teeth is a popular treatment for a variety of reasons. Whether you’re looking for a brighter smile, to chew your food more easily, or to decrease the risk of tooth decay and other issues, straightened teeth can provide many benefits. At Bay Area Orthodontics, we offer three popular treatment options for straightening teeth: traditional braces, Invisalign®️, and clear braces.

Each of these treatment options has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consult with your orthodontist to find out which one is right for you.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a treatment that involves wearing a series of clear, custom-made aligners that gradually shift teeth into the desired position. Because they are nearly invisible, Invisalign aligners are much less noticeable than traditional braces. They are also removable, so they won’t interfere with your eating or oral hygiene routines. In addition, the smooth plastic material used for Invisalign aligners won’t irritate gums or cheeks, and there are no wires or brackets to tighten, so you’ll spend less time in the dentist’s chair for adjustments.

Invisalign is a great option for both adults and teens who want to straighten their teeth without metal wires and brackets. It’s best for those who have mild to moderate cases of misalignment, as more complex cases may require traditional braces.

Traditional Braces

Traditional metal braces are still one of the most popular options for straightening teeth today. While they may not be as invisible as clear aligners or ceramic braces, they are often more affordable and just as effective. Metal braces work by using brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into the correct position. The brackets are bonded to the front of the teeth, and the wires are attached to the brackets using tiny rubber bands. As the wires are tightened, they apply gentle pressure to the teeth, moving them into alignment over time.

There are two main types of traditional braces:

Metal braces: Metal braces are made of high-grade stainless steel and are bonded to the front of the teeth.
Ceramic braces: These types of braces are made of tooth-colored or clear ceramic. This makes them less obvious than metal braces.

Traditional braces are very strong and can handle more complex cases, perfect for those who require severe misalignment correction or kids who can’t seem to wear their retainers.

Clear Braces

Over the past few years, clear braces have become an increasingly popular option for people looking to straighten their teeth. They are made of clear, durable plastic that is virtually invisible when worn. They work by gradually shifting teeth into the correct position over time. Since clear braces are less noticeable than metal braces, they are perfect for adults who want to straighten their teeth without drawing attention to their treatment.

In addition, clear braces are often more comfortable and require less frequent adjustments than metal braces. They are a great option for treating a wide range of orthodontic issues, including crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and overjets. Clear braces are also ideal for teenage patients when their teeth and jaw are still growing and changing. One disadvantage of clear braces is that they may be more expensive and can vary depending on the severity of the orthodontic issue being treated.

Ready for Straight Teeth?

Straightening your teeth is a big decision that can have a big impact on your smile and your overall oral health. It can be a significant investment of time and money, and it’s not always clear what the best course of action is. However, with the right guidance, straightening teeth can be a big success.

There are a number of different ways to straighten teeth, and the best method will vary depending on your individual needs. Each person’s mouth is different, so it’s important to consult with an orthodontist or dentist to determine which treatment is right for you. They will be able to assess your individual needs and recommend the best course of action.

So, what are your options to achieve a perfect smile? If you’re looking for a quick and easy fix, Invisalign may be the best option for you. For more comprehensive treatment, traditional braces may be the better choice. However, there are many other treatments available as well. If you’re not sure which treatment is right for you, consult with our orthodontist to discuss your options in detail.

At Bay Area Orthodontics, we offer a wide range of teeth straightening options to suit every patient’s needs. Our goal is to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that you can be proud of. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about your options for teeth straightening.

Can My Child Get Invisalign?

Invisalign has become a popular treatment option for straightening teeth and correcting bite issues — some people even say that it is better and more manageable compared to traditional braces.

It’s not surprising that many parents are starting to explore this option to improve the dental health of their children. Our experts from Bay Area Orthodontics are here to answer parents’ and guardians’ most pressing questions about Invisalign for children.

What’s the Difference Between Invisalign and Braces?

While braces and Invisalign both straighten teeth, there are significant differences between them. The most obvious is their appearance; traditional braces are made of very noticeable metal. Invisalign is made of clear plastic, making it a more discreet option.

They also differ in permanence. Invisalign is an aligner, so it can be put on and removed at will. Braces, on the other hand, need to be professionally applied and removed.

Invisalign is typically considered more comfortable than traditional braces, too. Since it doesn’t have brackets or wires, there is no worry about those rubbing against your child’s cheeks or lips and causing sore spots in their mouth.

At What Age Can Your Child Wear Invisalign?

As long as a child has some permanent teeth, it is possible for them to get Invisalign. For some kids, this could be anywhere between the ages of 7 to 14. However, some dental professionals will recommend waiting until all your child’s baby teeth have fallen out, which typically happens by the time that they’re around 12 years old.

Take note that this is a case-to-case basis, which is why it’s important to consult with a dentist or orthodontist to determine whether Invisalign is a viable option for your child’s current situation.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Invisalign for Kids?

Due to its many benefits, Invisalign has become a popular treatment for both adults and kids. Here are some of its advantages:

It can be removed when necessary. When eating or brushing their teeth, your child would be able to remove their Invisalign aligners. This allows them to live life comfortably, as they normally would.
It is less noticeable. Since it’s made of clear plastic, Invisalign is not that noticeable. This is important for some children, as they may become self-conscious when they have visible wires or brackets in their mouths.
You’ll have fewer dental emergencies. Unlike braces, you don’t have to worry about broken wires or brackets necessitating an emergency visit to your kid’s orthodontist.

While Invisalign may seem like a good treatment for your child, there are also disadvantages that you should keep in mind, including:

It requires discipline and constant surveillance. Using Invisalign requires the discipline to keep it in whenever possible. Since you’re considering this for your child, it’s important to consider how disciplined your child is. If they are not concerned with dental health, you’ll need to constantly check whether they’re actually using their Invisalign.
It could be lost. Since it’s removable, there’s a possibility that your child could lose their Invisalign while it’s out, or that it could fall out in an accident and be lost.
It’s less effective for complex issues. Invisalign isn’t as effective as braces for some complex dental issues. This is why it’s important to consult with a trusted dental professional to decide whether Invisalign is the best treatment for your child.

What Can You Expect During a Kids’ Invisalign Treatment?

The only way to determine whether Invisalign will be a great treatment option is by visiting an orthodontic office. That way, an orthodontist can assess your kid’s teeth and create a treatment plan for them.

If the dental professional determines that Invisalign is a viable option, they will take x-rays, photographs, and impressions of your child’s teeth to create an aligner that will fit properly. After a few weeks, your child’s Invisalign aligners will arrive.

Follow the orthodontist’s instructions and make sure that your child is wearing the right Invisalign aligners for about 20 – 22 hours per day. On average, a general Invisalign treatment can last anywhere between 12 – 18 months.

Consult an Orthodontist in the Bay Area

Invisalign can do wonders for kids. However, getting Invisalign isn’t always the best option; it’ll depend on your child’s preferences and unique dental situation.

To see whether Invisalign is a good option for your child, schedule a consultation with us at Bay Area Orthodontics. Our professional and friendly doctors will assess your child’s dental health and determine the best course of action for straightening your child’s teeth.

Reach out through our contact form or call us at (408) 709-7896 to get your child a complimentary consultation.