Everything You Need To Know About Invisalign Vs Braces

When it comes to straightening your teeth, braces have always been the go-to choice for patients. It’s time-tested to correct misalignment. But more and more people are also trying out Invisalign aligners because they’re removable and less noticeable. Both can do the job of straightening your teeth, but what should you choose between Invisalign and braces? To help you make an informed decision, below are some valuable information on both. Read on.

What Is Invisalign

Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment that uses custom-made clear aligners to straighten teeth. Unlike conventional braces, it doesn’t use metal. Instead, the aligners cover your teeth and gently push them into the proper position. This treatment will usually take 12 to 18 months, but this will depend on your teeth’s condition. Like braces, you also need to wear retainers to prevent teeth from going back to their original position. Invisalign aligners can be taken on and off, but you need to wear them all day except when you need to eat, drink colored beverages, brush, and floss. You must remember to wear them for at least 22 hours a day and keep them in an invisalign case during removals because they could easily get lost. The aligners are meant to be changed every two weeks.

Advantages Of Invisalign

Invisalign treatment comes with its own set of advantages, which is primarily due to the removable nature of the aligners.

Less noticeable

Invisalign aligners are made from a clear plastic material, so they’re more discreet to wear. The aligners don't appear obvious and are nearly invisible from a distance.

Comfortable to wear

For most people, Invisalign trays are more comfortable than metal braces. There can still be discomfort, but it usually happens during the first week. There’s also a minimal risk of cuts inside the cheeks because there’s no metal used.

Easy to clean

Because they’re removable, Invisalign aligners are easier to clean than braces. You can simply rinse and brush your aligners every night to keep them clean.

Ease of brushing and flossing

You can remove the clear aligners and clean your teeth as you normally would. There’s no need for special dental tools.

You can eat your favorite food

With Invisalign, you don’t have to avoid your favorite foods — even tough, sticky, or chewy ones. The only thing to remember is to remove them before eating and avoid drinking hot beverages with the aligners on.

Fewer dental visits are required

You will be given a set of Invisalign aligners that you need to change every two weeks. Because the aligners can be changed at home, you will only need to visit your dentist every few months.

What Are Braces

Braces have been the go-to orthodontic treatment for a long time. These dental devices are made of metal or ceramic wires that are fixed by brackets on each of your teeth. The wires are connected to the brackets using o-rings, which are tiny elastics. The wire is adjusted regularly, and the elastics are switched out to facilitate the movement of your teeth in the correct place. There are a few types of braces available. Aside from traditional braces that consist of an archwire, brackets, and elastics, there are also self-ligating braces. Also known as Damon braces, these don’t need o-rings.

Advantages Of Braces

Braces are known for their time-tested reliability because they’ve been used for a long time. Here are the advantages of the treatment.

Works for all cases

Braces are the best option when it comes to complex cases, even if you have multiple dental issues and severely crooked teeth. This is because braces can provide constant pressure and more force that can move teeth into the desired position.

Permanent bonding

With braces, there’s no risk of loss because the dental appliance is fixed on the teeth. Removing a mouthpiece isn't necessary prior to meals.

Fast treatment time

Since braces can’t be removed by the patient, they offer consistent progress.

Heat-resistant

Although you have to avoid certain food while wearing braces, you can drink hot beverages like tea and coffee without any problems, unlike with clear aligners.

Key Takeaway

Both Invisalign and braces are effective in straightening teeth, but each one has its advantages and benefits. Invisalign is suitable for people who prefer wearing a discreet dental implement and don’t have time for frequent dental visits. On the other hand, if you have severe misalignment or feel like you would easily lose your aligners, braces are the way to go. If you have additional questions about Invisalign vs braces, you can send us a message here at Elevate Dental. We have dental specialists trained and experienced in both treatments, so you can get the best dental care you need. You can schedule an appointment in one of our modern and comfortable clinics to know which option best suits your needs. Our team can answer your questions and help you make an informed decision.