Invisalign treatment showing dental scan.

Fixed Braces vs Clear Aligners/Invisalign

At Wadebridge Dental we are able to offer our patients a choice of fixed orthodontic or removable clear Aligner/Invisalign treatment to achieve a perfect smile. 

As Cornwalls experienced Diamond Invisalign providers with over 10 years of experience and additional diploma qualifications achieved by our dentists you are in the best hands even for the most complex of cases.

We are able to treat teenagers and adults with Teeth Straightening and offer free consultations, you do not need to be registered 

Fixed Braces

Fixed braces, often called metal braces or “train-tracks”, consist of metal brackets stuck to each tooth and connected by wires and elastic bands. Adjustments are made periodically to gradually move the teeth into the desired position.

Advantages:

  • Effective for complex cases: Fixed braces are highly effective for treating severe misalignments, overcrowding, and bite issues.
  • Predictable outcomes: Since they are fixed, the progress is continuously controlled by the orthodontist, ensuring precise results.
  • Variety of types: Options include traditional metal braces, ceramic braces (which are less noticeable), and lingual braces (attached to the back of the teeth).

Considerations:

  • Visibility: Fixed braces are more noticeable compared to clear aligners.
  • Comfort: They can cause discomfort, especially after adjustments.
  • Hygiene: They require meticulous oral hygiene to prevent plaque buildup and decay.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners/Invisalign, are a more recent addition to fixed braces. These bespoke-made, transparent plastic trays fit snugly over the teeth. A digital plan is created that will show you how your teeth move from their current to the desired final point. The plan is separated into stages, each stage consisting of one aligner. Each aligner is worn for 7-10 days, depending on the complexity of the movements.

Advantages:

  • Aesthetics: Clear aligners are nearly invisible, making them a popular choice for adults and teens concerned about appearance.
  • Removable: They can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, allowing for better oral hygiene and no dietary restrictions.
  • Comfort: Smooth plastic aligners are generally more comfortable and less likely to cause irritation than metal braces.

Considerations:

  • Discipline required: Patients must wear aligners for 22 hours a day for effective treatment, requiring a high level of compliance.

The choice between the systems depends on the type of tooth movements required, aesthetic preferences, and lifestyle considerations.

Recent Awards

Google Reviews

Always professional and friendly and gentle. Liz Bartlett
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind comments and 5* review and we look forward to seeing you at your next visit
Always excellent dentistry at Wadebridge Dental with kind friendly staff and receptionists putting you at ease!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Kim, for this great review. It means so much to the whole team when patients point out how kind and friendly everyone is from the admin team to the clinical team
Made me feel at ease and gave really good teeth cleaning and dental advice. Thank you 😃
Response from the owner:Thank you for taking time to place a 5* review. We are delighted to hear that you had such a pleasant experience with our hygiene/ therapist and that she was able to impart such helpful advice.
As always excellent friendly, caring and professional staff who put themselves out to help you. A first first class service all round and highly recommended.
Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to write such a lovely review of our practice and team, we are delighted that you were so happy with the care you received.
Excellent service
Response from the owner:Thank you for your 5* review, its much appreciated by the whole team
Just had my 12 month check up at Wadebridge practice. The hygienist was unwell so the dentist did my check up and scale and polish. What a lovely young girl she was, so friendly and helpful and made the experience really pleasant.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your lovely review , we are delighted that you had such a positive experience
Such an amazing experience. James was so informative and so gentle. Highly recommend James and the practice.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind recommendation and of our dentist Dr James Bryman. We are delighted that your experience was so positive
Very satisfied - as usual. Andrew did a check-up, then he explained the options, I asked questions about costs, etc ...and we decided to leave things for a year - but of course I'll be back if anything changes. A pleasant experience and a good use of my time.
Response from the owner:Thank you, John, for sharing your positive experience of your consultation with our principal dentist Dr Andrew Taylor and for the 5* review

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