Invisalign vs Braces: A Comprehensive Comparison
If you have crooked, crowded, or gappy teeth and are considering orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth, you have two main options: Invisalign and braces. Both have their pros and cons, and the decision between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, cost, and the severity of the issue being treated. In this blog, we’ll provide you with some information on the pros and cons of both options so you can make an informed decision about which you think may be best suited to you. Just keep in mind that everyone’s situation is different and needs to be assessed case by case, so if you are interested please come in for a complimentary consult, assessment, and smile simulations.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a type of clear plastic aligner that is worn over the teeth to gradually shift them into their proper position. The aligners are custom-made for each patient and are changed every week to accommodate the shifting of the teeth. Invisalign has been used for over 20 years and has become increasingly popular due to its virtually invisible appearance.
Pros of Invisalign:
- Discreet: One of the main benefits of Invisalign is that it is virtually invisible, making it a great option for those who don’t want to have noticeable braces.
- Removable: Invisalign aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Comfortable: Invisalign aligners are made of a smooth plastic material, which is much more comfortable than the brackets and wires used in braces.
- Effective: Invisalign has been proven to be effective in straightening teeth, and many patients see significant results in just a few months.
Cons of Invisalign:
- Responsibility: Since Invisalign aligners are removable, there is a risk of losing them or not wearing them for the recommended 22 hours per day. This can prolong the treatment time and negatively impact the results.
- Limitations: Invisalign may not be suitable for all cases of misaligned teeth, especially if there are severe bite issues or jaw problems. In such cases, braces may be a better option.
What are Braces?
Braces are a type of orthodontic treatment that uses metal brackets and wires to gradually shift teeth into their proper position. Braces have been used for over 150 years and are a tried-and-true method for straightening teeth.
Pros of Braces:
- Effectiveness: Braces and Invisalign both are effective at moving teeth
- Compliance is not an issue – you can’t take them out so they are good for people who cannot commit to wearing their aligners.
Cons of Braces:
- Noticeable: Braces are more noticeable than Invisalign, with metal brackets glued onto the teeth connected by metal wires.
- Comfort: Braces can be uncomfortable, especially during the initial adjustment period, as the brackets and wires may irritate or cut the gums, lips, and cheeks.
- Oral hygiene: Braces make it harder to maintain good oral hygiene, as food and plaque can get trapped in the wires and brackets, leading to tooth decay and gum disease.
- Lifestyle restrictions: Braces can limit what you can eat, and they may be more difficult to care for than Invisalign aligners.
Both Invisalign and braces are great options for moving your teeth and creating your perfect smile and each has its pros and cons. In my experience, most adult patients choose to have Invisalign treatment due to the discreet nature of Invisalign trays in comparison to braces and also that they can be taken out for eating or important events. Teenagers may also be ideal candidates for Invisalign if they are reliable and responsible enough to wear the Invisalign trays.
If you would like to discuss your situation, know more about Invisalign or braces, or have a look at a simulation of how your teeth could look after orthodontic movement, feel free to book a complimentary consult with our Dentists or Invisalign Coordinators.
SAMPLE CASES OF INVISALIGN
