As a parent, you want nothing but the best for your child’s dental care. And if your child needs braces, you might be wondering which type of orthodontic care, specifically, is the best for them. 

That being said, there are two primary options: traditional wire braces and Invisalign.

Of course, both types serve the same purpose in terms of straightening your child’s teeth and giving them a beautiful, healthy smile. But how do you choose which one is better for your child? In this blog post, we will go through the top five factors that can help you decide.

#1 — Treatment Duration

Traditional wire braces are typically worn for one to three years, according to the American Dental Association (ACA).

Invisalign, on the other hand, can take 12 to 18 months in most cases. If you want your child to get their braces off sooner, Invisalign can be a better option. That being said, it all depends on how complex their treatment will be.

#2 — Appearance

It’s no doubt that Invisalign, with its clear plastic aligners, is often more aesthetically appealing than traditional wire braces. After all, they are almost invisible, making it hard for anyone to notice that your child is wearing them.

That being said, if your child doesn’t care about their braces being visible, then traditional metal wire braces would be just fine.

#3 — Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene can be an issue for children with braces. Traditional wire braces are known to trap food particles easily, making it harder to clean orthodontic appliances.

Invisalign aligners, on the other hand, are removable, which allows kids to clean their teeth easily before putting them back. Additionally, kids can easily remove them while eating, so it is easier to maintain good oral hygiene.

#4 — Cost

There is typically a difference in cost between traditional wire braces and Invisalign, and this generally varies depending on location and treatment complexity.

Generally, Invisalign is more expensive than traditional braces. However, it’s best to discuss the cost with your dental provider so you can evaluate all of the options that are available to your family.

#5 — Treatment Complexity

When it comes to correcting more complex orthodontic issues like severe bite problems, traditional wire braces are often the go-to option.

While Invisalign can treat some crowding, spacing, and bite problems, it may not be the ideal option for more complex cases.

Overall, Invisalign and traditional wire braces both have their pros and cons, so it’s essential to weigh each option carefully before making a decision for your child’s dental care. Factors like treatment duration, appearance, oral hygiene, cost, and complexity of treatment all need to be considered.

However, the best way to determine the optimal choice for your child is by consulting your dentist or orthodontist to assess the severity of your child’s dental issues.

And if you’re looking for the best pediatric dentistry services for your child, Cochran, Soares, and Associates Pediatric Dentistry is here to help! Our award-winning, board-certified pediatric dentists and orthodontists provide compassionate care with exceptional qualifications. Contact our office today at 904-733-7254 to learn more or schedule an appointment.

We look forward to warmly welcoming your family and providing beautiful smiles!