Invisalign vs. Braces
Invisalign and traditional braces serve the same purpose, to straighten your teeth and improve your oral health. There are pros and cons to both options and ultimately you have to decide which will be the best fit for you or your child based on many factors.
Invisalign
Invisalign was first introduced in 2000 and designed to be an “invisible” way to straighten your teeth. This orthodontic treatment is comprised of removable aligners that are custom-fit to your teeth. It is recommended that the aligners are worn for at least 20 hours a day and only removed to eat, brush teeth and floss. Depending on the needs of the patient, treatment typically takes anywhere from 6 - 18 months. While invisalign is often referred to as a less invasive way to straighten teeth, it should be noted that this option is more limited in treating serious orthodontic issues than traditional braces.
Invisalign Pros
- Removable
- Less noticeable than traditional braces
- No wires or brackets
- Do not have to worry about food getting caught
- Protection Against Teeth Grinding
Invisalign Cons
- Patient is responsible for complying and wearing aligners for the appropriate amount of time each day
- Only available for teens and adults
- Must remove to eat or drink anything other than water
- Not an effective treatment for all dental issues
Braces
Traditional braces consist of brackets that are bonded to the teeth and connected with metal wires. There are a variety of color options to choose from, which allows them to be as vibrant or discrete as the patient desires. Application typically takes 1 to 2 hours and regular appointments are required to make adjustments. Treatment time varies, but in general it takes an average of two years to correct dental issues with braces. Traditional braces are more effective at treating complex issues. Compared to Invisalign, braces require less discipline, as they are not removable and therefore do not have the temptation to leave them out.
Braces Pros
- More effective at treating complex dental problems
- Require less discipline than Invisalign
- Less cleaning steps
Braces Cons
- Wires and brackets can be painful and cause sores
- Can cause difficulty eating certain foods
- Possibility of tooth discoloration
If you have any questions or need help deciding whether braces or Invisalign are the right fit for you, contact us to set up an appointment!