Are you thinking about straightening your teeth? Both Invisalign and traditional braces can help you achieve a great smile, but which one is right for you? With over six million people in the U.S. using orthodontic devices, your choice will depend on what fits best with your lifestyle, comfort, and specific orthodontic needs.
Whether you prefer the clear, removable Invisalign aligners or the tried-and-true method of traditional braces, we can help you find the best choice for your smile.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign offers a modern, nearly invisible way to straighten your teeth. Your treatment begins with a 3D scan or impressions, allowing your dentist to create custom aligners that guide your teeth into place step-by-step.
Each set of aligners is worn for about one to two weeks before moving on to the next, gradually shifting your teeth into place. You’ll have periodic checkups to ensure everything is progressing as planned, and the total treatment time varies based on your needs.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign doesn’t use wires or brackets. However, the aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours daily to be effective.
Pros of Invisalign:
- Virtually invisible. Invisalign aligners are made from clear thermoplastic, making them nearly invisible, and an excellent option for adults and teens who are conscious of their smile during treatment.
- Comfort and convenience. The smooth plastic aligners are more comfortable than metal brackets and wires, which can sometimes irritate your mouth. Invisalign aligners are removable, so you can eat, drink, brush, and floss normally.
- Shorter treatment time. Depending on the severity of your case, Invisalign can offer a shorter treatment time than traditional braces. Some patients see results in as little as 12 to 18 months.
- Fewer office visits. Invisalign treatment typically requires fewer orthodontic visits since there are no wires to tighten or brackets to adjust. You’ll usually receive several sets of aligners at once and only need to check in periodically.
Cons of Invisalign:
- Discipline is key. Because Invisalign aligners are removable, they require a high level of commitment. You need to wear them for at least 20-22 hours a day for effective results, which might be challenging for some people.
- Not suitable for complex cases. While Invisalign is effective for mild to moderate crooked teeth, it may not be the best option for more complicated orthodontic issues, such as severe misalignment, jaw problems, or tooth rotation over 20°.
What Are Traditional Braces?
Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires that are fixed to your teeth. Your dentist attaches the brackets with a special adhesive and threads a wire through them, tightening it every few weeks to gradually shift your teeth into the correct position.
This method is highly effective, especially for more complex orthodontic issues like severe misalignment or bite problems. Throughout the treatment, you’ll have regular checkups to adjust the wires, add elastic bands or spacers, and ensure your teeth move as planned. While braces are more visible, they remain a reliable choice for straightening teeth.
Pros of Traditional Braces:
- Effective for all cases. Traditional metal braces are an effective solution for many orthodontic issues, from minor spacing concerns to more severe conditions like overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
- Non-removable. Unlike Invisalign, which can be removed, braces are fixed to your teeth, eliminating the temptation to take them off. This can be an advantage, especially for younger patients who may struggle to remember to wear their aligners consistently.
- Variety of options. Today, you aren’t limited to just metal braces. Options like tooth-colored ceramic braces and lingual braces (braces placed on the back of the teeth) offer less noticeable alternatives.
Cons of Traditional Braces:
- Appearance. The metal brackets and wires are noticeable, which can be a concern for patients who are self-conscious about their appearance.
- Oral hygiene challenges. Brushing and flossing around metal brackets and wires can be more challenging, potentially impacting your oral health if not done correctly.
- Potential discomfort. Metal braces can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially after getting them adjusted. The brackets and wires can rub against the inside of your cheeks or lips, causing irritation, and broken wires can even poke or cut the soft tissues in your mouth.
Invisalign or Braces: Which is Right for You?
Both options have their perks, so it really comes down to what works best for you. Consider your lifestyle, how much maintenance you’re comfortable with, and the specific needs of your smile.
Smile On Dental Salon & Sleep Apnea Center can help you achieve a beautifully straight smile. Schedule a consultation with us today to find the perfect solution for your teeth.