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Invisalign™ and braces are two different ways to straighten your teeth. It can be difficult choosing which option is right for you, so the orthodontists at Oahu Dental Care in Pearl City and Honolulu, HI, explain the pros and cons of each to help you make a decision.

Pros & Cons of Invisalign

The biggest advantage Invisalign retainers offer is the appearance. They are almost invisible, so they are a great option if you feel self-conscious about straightening your teeth. They are also very comfortable to wear since they don’t have wires like traditional braces. 

Because Invisalign retainers are removable, they do require more self-discipline. You must wear them for at least 22 hours a day, or you may not see results. But since you remove them to eat, you don’t have to adjust your diet and cleaning your teeth is easy. Keep in mind that they are not good for patients who need extensive work to straighten their teeth.

bracesPros & Cons of Braces

From an orthodontist standpoint, braces are more effective for complex cases, because each tooth can be individually repositioned. Braces are also more low-maintenance with their cleaning—you don’t need to brush and rinse them separately like the Invisalign retainers. And while they’re not invisible, you can choose clear brackets to make them less noticeable.

One of the biggest disadvantages is that braces can be uncomfortable, especially when they are newly tightened. You may also have to deal with sores on the inside of your cheek because of the wires. If you play contact sports, then traditional braces may not be an ideal solution for you.

Are you looking to get your teeth straightened? Talk to the staff at the Oahu Dental Care center to see if Invisalign or braces make more sense for your specific situation. You can make an appointment by calling (808) 456-5005 for the Pearl City location and (808) 732-2821 for the Honolulu location. Visit their website to get directions to their office and view their hours.

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