When considering your orthodontic treatment options, one of the most difficult decisions you have to make is choosing between braces vs Invisalign. Both of these teeth straightening methods aim to correct misaligned teeth, improve bite issues, and enhance your smile. The option you go for will depend on a variety of factors, including your lifestyle, the challenges with your teeth alignment, your budget, and personal preferences.
If you’re looking for professional advice about the choice of traditional braces vs Invisalign, our Invisalign clear aligners team can help guide you towards the best solution for your needs. Keep reading as we share the key differences between braces and Invisalign to help you make a decision about the best option to give you the winning smile you’ve always dreamed of.
What Are Traditional Braces?
Traditional braces are a method of aligning teeth that has been used for decades, using metal brackets bonded to each tooth and connected by wires. Regular adjustments by your dentist help move your teeth into the desired position over a period of time based on your unique challenges. As with either option, there are pros and cons of Invisalign vs traditional braces. You’ll want to weigh these up when making your decision to ensure you find the option that will best suit your lifestyle and needs.
Pros of Traditional Braces
Traditional braces are an effective option for complex cases. They are particularly useful for treating severe crowding, large gaps, and significant bite issues. As they are fixed to your teeth, braces work 24/7. There is no need to worry about losing your braces or forgetting to put them back in after eating, as some patients do with Invisalign braces. Many patients also appreciate that they can be customised to include coloured bands and bracket options, making them a good option for teenagers who want to add some fun to this type of dental treatment.
Cons of Traditional Braces
The appearance of metal braces makes them more noticeable, which may affect self-confidence for some wearers. Brushing and flossing to maintain good oral hygiene requires more effort and care to avoid plaque build-up and staining when wearing braces, as they can get in the way of your usual brushing outline. An important thing to keep in mind when wearing metal braces is that you need to maintain a diet that doesn’t contain sticky, hard, or chewy foods so that you don’t end up with the issue of broken braces.
What Is Invisalign?
Continuing our comparison of Invisalign vs. braces, Invisalign clear aligners are a modern alternative to traditional braces. They are made from smooth, transparent plastic, with custom trays that gradually shift your teeth into place and that look nearly invisible when worn. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of this very popular treatment option.
Pros of Invisalign
Invisalign aligners are virtually undetectable, making them ideal for adults or teenagers who prefer a discreet option when choosing braces. Many adults who choose to get braces later on in life choose this option so that it doesn’t impact their appearance in their career. You can take the aligners out when eating, brushing, or for special occasions, which makes them a slightly more flexible option than metal braces. The comfort level is typically much higher for wearers as well. With no metal wires or brackets, clear aligners generally cause less irritation.
Cons of Invisalign
Invisalign aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day at a minimum. Inconsistent use can delay results and lengthen the treatment time. Keep in mind that clear aligners are not suitable for all cases, as severe misalignments may still require braces. Invisalign is often slightly more expensive than traditional options, depending on the case complexity.
Which Option Is Best for You?
The decision between Invisalign and traditional braces comes down to your specific dental concerns, personal preferences, and budget. If you are dealing with a complex orthodontic case, your dentist may be in favour of braces for their precision and strength. However, if your concern is mild to moderate misalignment and you’re looking for a discreet solution, Invisalign clear aligners may be the better choice. To start the process of deciding what type of braces you need, you will want to book a consultation with a dental professional. They can review the alignment of your teeth currently and then suggest the best treatment option to fix your concerns as quickly as possible.
Are you looking to improve your smile this year? Our team are passionate about the benefits of Invisalign clear aligners and has seen amazing results for many of our patients who’ve opted for this treatment. Contact us today for more information about Invisalign or to book an initial consultation with our team to learn more about this treatment option.