I'm sure you're familiar with fixed braces. They have been with us since time immemorial and are considered a traditional method of orthodontic treatment. However, it's not always the most comfortable or the most aesthetically pleasing. Many patients have different experiences with them - come read on! See what fixed braces patients like most and what they don't.
We have devoted a separate, detailed article to the description of what fixed braces are, how much they cost and what their advantages and disadvantages are.
The application of the fixed braces itself is painless and takes approximately one to two hours.
The orthodontist first cleans the teeth, applies a special adhesive and attaches the brackets, which are connected with a wire. Once fitted, the patient may feel pressure or slight discomfort, which usually subsides within a few days.
Each tightening of the braces means renewed pressure and pain until the teeth get used to it again.
Patient Jan's experience with fixed braces: 'The fitting itself didn't hurt, but the first week was uncomfortable. I had trouble biting and the braces irritated the inside of my mouth. But after a few weeks I got used to it."
S Invisalign invisible braces the process is much more comfortable. Instead of braces that are with you 24/7 for at least 2 years, you get a set of removable splints that gradually move your teeth into position without painful tightening.
Fixed braces can cause pain, especially after putting them on and after each tightening. Many patients complain of:
Patient Lucie's experience with fixed braces: 'After each tightening of the braces I could not eat properly for several days. The worst was when the wire injured the inside of my cheek."
Reading tip: How to relieve tooth pain when wearing braces?
With Invisalign, this problem is minimal. The aligners are smooth, without sharp edges and do not cause abrasions on the inside of the mouth. Plus, you can take them off for a while if you feel uncomfortable pressure.
With fixed braces, you need to adjust the diet. Hard and sticky foods can damage the brackets or wires, which means unexpected visits to the orthodontist.
Patient Peter's experience with fixed braces: 'What bothered me the most was that I couldn't eat nuts, crispy pastries and my favourite sweets. I was constantly afraid I would break something off."
There are no restrictions with Invisalign. Because you can take the splints off when you eat, you can eat whatever you want. You don't have to give up your favorite foods or worry about getting something caught in your braces - and causing mischief.
Cleaning teeth with fixed braces is much more challenging. Food gets caught between the brackets, which increases the risk of tooth decay and gingivitis. This requires the use of special brushes and interdental appliances.
Patient Klára's experience with fixed braces: 'It took me twice as long as usual to brush my teeth. Even though I was using special brushes, I still had the feeling that something was left behind."
With Invisalign, hygiene is much easier. Simply remove the aligners before cleaning and brush your teeth as usual. You don't have to worry about deposits or odour, which is a common problem with fixed braces.
Reading tip: Dental care: how to get healthy, beautiful and straight teeth
The treatment period for fixed braces ranges from 1.5 to 3 years, depending on the complexity of the defect. After removal, retention splints must be worn to prevent the teeth from returning to their original crooked position.
Patient Filip's experience with fixed braces: 'I wore braces for almost three years. Towards the end I couldn't wait to get them off. The result was worth it, but it was a long journey."
Invisalign invisible braces often make treatment faster and more comfortable. The length of treatment depends on the individual case, but thanks to modern technology, results are visible faster than with fixed braces.
Reading tip: Comparing teeth is not just about aesthetics
Fixed braces are effective, but they bring a number of disadvantages - pain, aesthetic limitations, complicated hygiene and dietary restrictions. Invisalign offers a solution that is more comfortable, discreet and flexible.
The main advantages of Invisalign over fixed braces:
If you have an orthodontic problem and are considering braces but want to avoid the inconvenience of fixed braces, book a free consultation. At Braces World, we can help you find out if Invisalign is the right choice for you.
