Claregate Dental is a leading dental clinic based in Wolverhampton. Our dedicated team of professionals are committed to delivering high-quality dental care, with a particular focus on orthodontics. With over a decade of experience, we have successfully treated a wide range of dental issues, helping our patients regain their confidence and smile with pride.

At Claregate Dental, we offer both traditional metal braces and Invisalign, giving our patients the option to choose the one that best suits their needs. Both treatments have their own advantages and disadvantages, which we’ll discuss in detail throughout this article.

Do you need braces?

Before delving into the metal braces vs. Invisalign debate, let’s first understand why one might need braces. The primary reason is to correct malocclusions or bad bites. This could be an overbite (where the upper teeth bite over the lower teeth), underbite (the lower teeth bite over the upper teeth), or crossbite (teeth are closer to either the cheek or the tongue than the corresponding tooth in the upper or lower jaw).

Braces not only improve the aesthetics of your smile, but they also enhance your oral health. Misaligned teeth can lead to numerous dental problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss. They can also cause difficulties in speaking, chewing, and maintaining oral hygiene.

Getting braces is not just about enhancing your smile, it’s about safeguarding your oral health. At Claregate Dental, we believe in educating our patients about their dental health, so they can make informed decisions about their treatments.

What to Consider When Choosing Between Metal Braces and Invisalign

When it comes to orthodontic treatment, there are two main contenders: traditional metal braces and Invisalign. Both have their unique selling points and drawbacks.

Metal Braces

Metal braces have been around for a long time, and they have a proven track record of success. They are made of high-grade stainless steel and use brackets and wires to move the teeth into the desired position. The main advantage of metal braces is that they are typically the most effective at treating extreme overbites, underbites, or other significant dental issues.

However, metal braces are also the most visible type of braces. Some people might feel self-conscious about wearing them, especially adults. They can also be uncomfortable initially, causing sores in the mouth. This discomfort usually subsides after the mouth gets used to the braces.

Invisalign

Invisalign is an innovative orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move your teeth into the correct position. These aligners are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for those who want a more discreet treatment.

Invisalign aligners are also removable, which means you can take them out to eat, drink, brush, and floss. This makes them a convenient option for maintaining your oral hygiene. However, for Invisalign to be effective, you must be disciplined about wearing the aligners for at least 22 hours per day.

Invisalign might not be suitable for treating severe dental issues, and it is typically more expensive than metal braces. However, many patients find the benefits of Invisalign, such as its aesthetics and convenience, worth the additional cost.

Contact our Wolverhampton dental practice

Choosing between metal braces and Invisalign is a personal decision that should be based on your unique needs and circumstances. Both treatments have their own pros and cons, and it’s important to weigh these against your lifestyle, budget, and dental needs.

At Claregate Dental, our experienced orthodontists are here to guide you through this decision-making process. We will examine your teeth, discuss your preferences and concerns, and recommend the most suitable treatment option for you.

Remember, the goal of getting braces is not just to enhance your smile, but to improve your overall oral health. Therefore, choose the treatment that will give you the best results in the long term. After all, a healthy, beautiful smile is an investment in yourself. So to begin your journey to a healthier, brighter smile, contact us today.