BRACES V/S CLEAR ALIGNERS: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

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Deciding to have your teeth straightened is always a good idea! The good thing about orthodontic
dental treatments that use braces or invisible aligners is that they do more than just straighten the
teeth; these are also valuable in diagnosing and correcting bite issues that often require special
attention.

Today’s patient has a choice that patients many years ago didn’t have; and one of those
choices is braces vs clear aligners. Traditional braces, make use of metal wires with an aim of
getting the most ideal movement or position for the teeth; while invisible aligners utilizes a set of
clear plastic trays as a means of achieving ideal tooth position.

Some common factors to consider for braces and clear aligners are as follows:

 

Braces Clear Aligners
Visibility Noticeable Virtually invisible
Removability Fixed Removable
Comfort Less comfortable More comfortable
Hygiene Maintenance Difficult Easier
Diet Avoid hard, sticky, crunchy, chewy food No dietary restrictions

One appliance is not inherently better than another. Regardless of the type of appliance used, some
things are mandatory to all patients. For example, all patients must brush and floss their teeth
regularly and they need to wear retainers as recommended.

Which Option is Best for You?

Your Orthodontist will explain you pros and cons of each option and explain why it is suitable
or not for ‘you’. Once you have all the information, it’s up to you to decide which option suits
your level of commitment & lifestyle.

FLUORIDE TREATMENT

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Demineralization of the enamel adjacent to brackets due to poor oral hygiene is a frequent incidence during Orthodontic treatment. This demineralization causes white spot lesions on the tooth surfaces of most Orthodontic patients which result in an unaesthetic appearance & also jeopardizes the success of Orthodontic treatment. Professionally applied fluorides are in the form of a gel, foam or rinse and are applied by a dental professional during dental visits. These fluorides have a high concentration than the self-applied fluorides.

What is Fluoride Varnish?

Fluoride varnish is a coating of fluoride applied to teeth to strengthen enamel and reduce risk for
tooth decay. It has been proven that varnishes provide high concentration of fluoride. Prime
advantage being they adhere to enamel surface longer than other topical fluoride products.

What to Expect?

Topical fluoride treatment is a painless and quick procedure. Your teeth will be simply dried after
teeth cleaning and a coating of clear fluoride varnish will be applied to your teeth which will be
completely unnoticeable.

How Does it Work?

Once in place, fluoride varnish attracts minerals that strengthen and fortify tooth enamel. Topical
fluoride treatments reduce risk for tooth decay and increase tooth mineral density between office
visits ensuring healthy teeth.

How Frequently do I need Fluoride Treatment?

Varnishes must be reapplied at regular intervals with at least 2 applications per year needed for
sustained benefit.