Braces are an effective way to fix any alignment issue a patient may have, from overbites to underbites and everything in between. Braces have been straightening teeth for centuries, dating back to the early 19th century. Technology has changed a lot over the years, but the impact of braces has remained the same. At Exeter Orthodontics, we offer two types of braces: fixed traditional braces and removable Invisalign aligners. When it comes to fixed vs. removable braces, what are the differences? And what benefits can patients look forward to?

The Benefits of Fixed Braces

Fixed, traditional braces are the braces you most commonly see. They use metal wires and brackets, affixed to the teeth, to gradually align your smile. The wires exert pressure on your teeth to move them into proper alignment, while the brackets hold them steady. You may feel minor discomfort following your adjustments, but fixed braces aren’t severely painful.

Because fixed braces are attached to the teeth, patients cannot remove them, lose them, or forget to wear them. Fixed braces also give orthodontists more control over the progress of your treatment.

Finally, fixed braces can straighten nearly all smiles, no matter how severe the misalignment is. Braces use more force than removable options and can bridge wider gaps between teeth. Patients will start to see a brand-new smile in as little as nine to 24 months.

Reasons for Removable Aligners

In the battle of fixed vs. removable braces, removable Invisalign is gaining ground. Invisalign is a great alternative to traditional braces. These removable aligners are made from clear plastic, so they’re often considered more comfortable and convenient for patients.

Benefits of removable braces include:

  • They’re easier to clean. Simple brush your aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush and liquid soap to clear away debris. Do this every day. Also brush your teeth after eating so that food does not get trapped in the aligners.
  • You can eat your favorite foods. Traditional braces have a whole list of foods patients should stay away from. But Invisalign can be removed during meals, so you can still eat your favorite foods and snacks during your treatment.
  • They are discreet. Invisalign is transparent, so it will be difficult for others to tell that you’re wearing these aligners. This is the main reason adults often choose Invisalign.

One important note: patients with Invisalign should wear their aligners for 22 hours a day to see their desired results. This responsibility is sometimes why children, prone to removing or losing their aligners, may be better suited for fixed braces.

Fixed vs. Removable Braces: What’s Best for You?

Just as every patient is different, so is every smile! Fixed braces may be a better orthodontic option for one patient, while removable braces like Invisalign may be better suited for someone else. The only way to know whether fixed or removable braces are the right choice for you is to schedule a free consultation with our team!

At Exeter Orthodontics, patients can find traditional braces for only $3,995. This price includes x-rays, retainers, adjustments, retainers, and repairs. No hidden fees mean you can focus on keeping your smile healthy and happy and not the steep budgets that sometimes come with it!

To learn more, request a free consultation. We have offices in Allentown, Exton, Springfield, Harrisburg, Reading, and Millersville.