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Having straight pearly whites is almost everyone’s dream, and modern dentists allows anyone to make it a reality. By having well-aligned teeth, you’re not just maintaining your smile’s beauty but also protecting your mouth against the many problems that come with crowding and crooked teeth. There are many options to correct this misalignment, with traditional metal braces and Invisalign being the most popular choices.
Student-athletes have a unique set of needs—they’re often busy with academics and sports, so which option would be best for them? Metal braces and Invisalign are both viable choices, and they each have their benefits and drawbacks. To find out which one works for you and your lifestyle, here is a quick guide for you:
Invisalign: The Benefits
For relatively minor teeth corrections, many student-athletes favor the convenience of Invisalign. The clear plastic trays offer more protection during sports and strenuous physical activities. Moreover, there are no wires and brackets poking the inner cheeks, so they’re much more comfortable to wear throughout the day. There’s also a reduced chance of injuring the mouth when suffering a blow.
Because the plastic aligners are removable, athletes can remove them during practice, but they can also comfortably leave them on. Invisalign will sit tightly on the teeth, so the wearers do not need to worry about it falling out even during intense physical activity.
Invisalign: The Drawbacks
The main drawback of Invisalign is that it’s not the best type of treatment for everyone. It’s best for mild misalignments and may not be suitable for all conditions. It’s best to consult with your dentist first before getting this treatment.
Another disadvantage is that athletes need to remove Invisalign before eating or drinking non-water beverages, which may be inconvenient for many. Moreover, they’re prone to getting lost.
Braces: The Benefits
Traditional wire braces are time-tested treatments for crooked teeth. They can handle even severely misaligned teeth with enough changing sessions, and they’re also more efficient in their jobs than plastic aligners.
Another significant benefit of wire braces is that they’re relatively permanent, and athletes will not lose them despite their busy schedules. They also do not have to worry about removing anything before eating, which can be convenient for individuals on the go.
Braces: The Drawbacks
Braces have significant disadvantages when it comes to student-athletes, with the most prominent one being that they make it more likely for the wearers to injure their mouths when their faces take a blow. If a person plays full-contact sports, it’s best to wear a dentist mouthguard to minimize the potential damage their braces and mouths may take.
Metal braces are also inconvenient in the sense that they require more thorough cleaning because the wires and brackets may catch leftover food, which can damage the teeth or cause bad breath.
Get Invisalign or Braces in Waterford, MI
Student-athletes must weigh their options according to their lifestyles, sports of choice, and the condition of their teeth to determine the treatment that suits their needs. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, and we hope this guide can help you make a better-informed choice. Of course, you’ll have to check with your dentist as well.
If you’re looking to get Invisalign or braces in Waterford, MI, Dental House MI has you covered. We’ll provide you with a complete range of dental services to keep your smile as healthy and beautiful as it can be. Contact us and make an appointment today!
