Orthodontic Treatments Compared: Retainers Only vs. Braces
Many people assume that, simply because they have orthodontic issues, they will require conventional metal braces or, at the very least, Invisalign® aligners. While it is true that moderate to major cases of malocclusion and misalignment will require such orthodontic procedures, minor cases may not require such treatments at all. Indeed, in some cases, it may be possible to correct minor malocclusion and misalignment using only orthodontic retainers.
At Kellyn Hodges Orthodontics, Dr. Kellyn Hodges carefully evaluates each individual patient in order to determine which treatment or treatments are likely to produce the best possible results. She then advises the patient, honestly and openly, of his or her alternatives and the benefits and risks associated with each. If retainers and braces are both options, she would discuss the issue of retainers only vs. braces during a consultation at her Philadelphia, PA orthodontics practice. She believes that by giving patients as much information as she can about the orthodontic procedures available to them, she is empowering them to make the most confident and educated decisions possible regarding their treatment.
Are you a candidate for retainers-only treatment, or are metal braces better suited to your case? Find out by scheduling your initial consultation with Dr. Hodges today.
Comparing Retainers-only Treatment to Treatment with Metal Braces
First, it is important to note that if Dr. Hodges recommends that you undergo treatment with conventional metal braces, you are almost certainly not a suitable candidate for retainers-only treatment. However, if you are a candidate for retainers-only treatment, you could still choose to undergo treatment with metal braces. However, the question before you would be, why would you want to?
It is true that metal braces are able to straighten teeth and correct faulty bites with an exceptional rate of success. However, if you are able to avoid the expense, discomfort (yes, even modern braces do involve some degree of discomfort), and conspicuous appearance of metal braces, you probably should. Braces would also impose limits on your ability to eat and care for your teeth that retainers would not.
Dr. Hodges is an experienced, highly respected orthodontist with an excellent track record. If she recommends retainers-only orthodontic treatment, you can trust that she believes very strongly that it will be effective in your case. In minor cases of misalignment and malocclusion, an orthodontic retainer can achieve results equal to those possible with metal braces. Dr. Hodges will either cement the retainer behind your teeth until the desired results have been achieved or advise you to wear your removable retainer for at least 20 hours a day, removing it only for brushing, flossing, and eating.
Practically speaking, retainers-only treatment is also much less expensive than treatment with braces, a benefit that qualified candidates will surely enjoy.
Learn More about Retainers-only Treatment vs. Treatment with Braces
To learn more about retainers-only orthodontic treatment vs. orthodontic treatment with braces, please contact Kellyn Hodges Orthodontics today. We would be pleased to answer any questions you have and assist you in scheduling your consultation with Dr. Hodges.