INVISALIGN VS BRACES, which is better for you?
For centuries, metal braces were the only option for patients seeking orthodontic treatment. Now, however, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Innovations in orthodontics have allowed us more choice than ever when it comes to selecting our preferred treatments.
But with all that choice comes uncertainty. Which is why we’re here to break down some of your options for you. Namely: Invisalign vs traditional metal braces, which is better for you?
| INVISALIGN | BRACES | |
|---|---|---|
| Invisalign treatment uses clear, plastic aligners. The aligners are customized for each patient by making a 3d scan of their mouth. Customized aligners are then made to move the teeth in small steps until the correct position is reached. | APPEARANCE | Braces are traditionally made of metal and attached to the outside of the teeth. Metal wires and rubber bands are attached to the brackets to manipulate your teeth to correct orthodontic problems. |
| Invisalign treatment uses clear, plastic aligners. The aligners are customized for each patient by making a 3d scan of their mouth. Customized aligners are then made to move the teeth in small steps until the correct position is reached. | Wearing time | Braces stay in 24×7 and it comes with dietary restrictions. With braces people find some types of foods difficult or uncomfortable to eat. Hard and sticky foods can cause the wire to break or a bracket to dislodge from a tooth. Once this happens, the braces won’t work until you have the breakage repaired. Multiple breakages can prolong your treatment time. |
| As well as when eating and drinking, you’ll also remove your Invisalign retainers to brush your teeth. you would continue brushing as you would normally | ORAL – HYGEINE | Brushing and flossing your teeth is little more difficult with braces. If you don’t clean your teeth properly, you risk having plaque build up around the braces which can lead to staining and decay. Patients need to follow the instructions of their orthodontist on how to correctly brush and floss while your braces are on. |
| Short Appointment time With Invisalign, much of the orthodontist’s work happens before you wear your aligners. A 3D scan of your teeth is used for making all the customized retainers in a laboratory. | APPOINTMENTS | Appointment time would last 30 min or longer on an average |
| More comfortable with fewer mouth and gum problems. Typically no cuts on the inside cheeks and No picky wires! | COMFORT | Over time people get used to either braces or Invisalign and find that they can be relatively comfortable. |
| If you aren’t someone who is disciplined about putting your aligners back in your mouth after eating or brushing, you aren’t going to wear them the required 22 hours per day. Your treatment may not produce the best results if the aligners aren’t worn as long. The major reason for Invisalign treatment failing primarily relates to lack of patient compliance with wearing the aligners. | RESULTS | Braces can achieve a better result than Invisalign. Braces have more force to move teeth into the desired position. Invisalign is limited in terms of how much teeth can be moved at a time. |
| Due to advances in the 3D scanning technology and the flexible material involved in making the aligners, the cost of Invisalign can be higher to braces. Invisalign costs will vary depending on how many trays are required. | COST | Traditional braces are usually the more affordable option |
| .Discreet, nearly-invisible look .Removable aligners easy to care for .No food restrictions .Professional look for working adults .Comfortable and easy to wear .Whiten teeth during treatment. |
Benefits of Treatment Type | .Effective for very severe or complex cases .Less expensive .Permanent bonding means consistent progress .Colorful rubber bands .Multiple braces types .Time-tested reliability |
| .Must remember to wear aligners 22 hours a day .More expensive .Must remove before eating/drinking anything but water .Aligners can stain or discolor .More easily broken, damaged, or lost .May require supplemental braces treatment for complex cases |
Downsides of Treatment | .Noticeable metal appliance .Food restrictions .Can trap bacteria .Can be uncomfortable/cause irritation in mouth .May be difficult to clean |
| Adults or responsible teenagers, working professionals | Ideal Treatment For | Kids and teenagers; budget consumers |
Certain things to keep in mind
Invisalign Looks Better: Appearance
The biggest benefit of Invisalign is that the retainers are virtually invisible. Invisalign trays are made from a clear plastic material whereas braces are metal.
Adult patients and self -conscious teens love that other students, colleagues and clients can’t see they are undergoing orthodontic treatment.
With Invisalign you don’t go through a period of people commenting on your new braces. You won’t be worried about your smile in photos . Invisalign is virtually undetectable while typical metal braces are more noticeable.
Some kids enjoy picking out different colored bands for metal braces, but for the most part children and adults alike prefer the appearance of Invisalign.
If you are someone that wants your teeth alignment to be discreet, Invisalign is the superior choice.
CONS
Taking your Aligners In and Out Can be Inconvenient
Aligners need to be removed before eating and drinking anything other than water. When you are out in public, you need to remove your aligners discreetly and not lose them. Before replacing your aligners, you need to brush your teeth. Food particles can stop your teeth from moving and can stain your aligners. You are also at increased risk of cavities and bad breath.
Invisalign Effectiveness vs Braces
Invisalign is not always the best treatment method. It’s typically not recommended for more complex orthodontic cases. Before deciding on which treatment you should use, ask your orthodontist if you can expect the same result from all methods. This will allow you to make an informed decision on which type of treatment is right for you. An experienced and ethical orthodontist will advise you on the best treatment options for your own specific situation.
Faster Treatment Time
One thing for you to keep in mind is: which is faster, braces or invisalign? Generally, when closing gaps and aligning teeth the treatment time can be faster with braces vs Invisalign. Speed of treatment can be a big factor as many people like to get their orthodontic treatment finished as fast as possible. The skill and experience of the specialist Orthodontist can also contribute to consistently faster treatment times.
Invisalign vs Braces: The Verdict
The fact of the matter is that in the debate between Invisalign vs braces it all comes down to personal choice. So, to make the decision that is best for you or your child, you should weigh the categories above.
It is also critical that you consult an orthodontist to determine whether you can get Invisalign. Certain scenarios may preclude you from this kind of treatment.
Don’t wait to change your smile and start feeling more confident today. Whatever you choose, practice good oral hygiene and stay in communication with your orthodontist if you have questions.
