Archive for February 2020

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Braces vs. Invisalign: Everything You Need to Know About Choosing the Right Treatment

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February 12, 2020

As an adult I have always wanted braces, but didn't know where to start or if I was too late. (Hint: it's never too late!) I was told I needed braces around middle school, but at the time my family was about to move to Australia. The closest orthodontist was 7 hours away from where we were about to live. We were in a really unique, but tough place. Braces need adjusting and Invisalign wasn't an option at the time, so my parents made the decision to skip a treatment plan. At the time I didn't really mind, I learned to love my smile the way it was.

By my mid 20's I was really interested in receiving treatment and so my journey with Red Dirt Orthodontics began in October 2019. I am going to talk a little bit more about the pros/ cons of braces and Invisalign, so that if you are considering a treatment plan this list may help make up your mind. But really, the major PRO is that both treatments help you achieve the smile you want! This pros/ cons list is from personal experience, so please contact Dr. Erickson for your FREE smile consultation. (Use code CHELSEA for a discount on your braces or Invisalign treatment.)

Everyone's journey is different and a professional opinion is necessary in deciding the right treatment for you!

Invisalign Pros
  • No adjustments at the orthodontist.
  • Cosmetic, they're invisible!
  • Amazing oral health since you need to brush your teeth after every meal and you can eat as normal.
Invisalign Cons
  • Misplacing or losing a tray could be bad. (Which is easier to do than you might think!)
  • Brushing after every meal may not be suitable for your lifestyle.
  • Don't forget to wear them for 20-22 hours a day, preferably 22 hours!
Braces Pros
  • Brush normally!
  • No need to remember to wear your trays or worry about losing them. 
  • You may be able to get "invisible" braces which are placed behind the teeth, instead of in front.
Braces Cons
  • Cosmetic, they're not invisible however you can get clear bands!
  • No eating foods that will stick in your brackets easily.
  • Adjustments at the orthodontist, frequency will depend on your treatment plan.
Invisalign and braces typically cost about the same.
Payment plans and discounts are available at Red Dirt Orthodontics.

As you can tell, braces and Invisalign are the same treatment and it comes down to personal preference at the end of the day. Depending what your lifestyle looks like, one may be more beneficial than the other. Dr. Erickson and his team did a phenomenal job of walking me through this process and allowing me to decide which would work best. I simply chose Invisalign because of how often I am in front of the camera, but braces/ invisible braces would've been 100% okay with me too! 

After choosing Invisalign Dr. Erickson came up with my treatment plan & showed me how my teeth would move over the next several months. Which was super cool to me!

A frequent question I get asked is "does it hurt?" No matter your treatment plan, your teeth/ mouth may be slightly sore. The soreness does not bother me and never lasts for more than a day! I know friends and family have said the same thing about braces, but definitely tolerable no matter which treatment you decide to do.

Now that you know a little bit more about treatment options, schedule a complimentary smile consultation with Dr. Erickson and his team at Red Dirt Orthodontics! Even if you're unsure, a consultation is the perfect time to educate yourself about your options and possible treatment plans. You won't regret it!


xo Chels