Your Brights Grove Dentist Breaks Down the Differences Between Braces and Invisalign

If you want to straighten your teeth, you can consider both braces and Invisalign, but you have to speak to your dentist to determine which option is best for your smile. Your dentist will discuss your dental goals to ensure you achieve a beautiful smile and will break down the differences between braces and Invisalign to help you make the right choice.

Both methods are effective at straightening teeth, but you have to consider the details to ensure you select the right treatment for your smile.

Which Option is Faster at Straightening Your Teeth?

Many patients will want to know which method yields faster results because they will want a new and improved smile fast. Invisalign treatments do take less time than braces, however and the average treatment duration is roughly 6 months because Invisalign uses a series of transparent aligners that gradually shift teeth into their desired positions. 

Braces, on the other hand, require periodic adjustments because they consist of wires and brackets, and this can prolong the duration of your treatment. 

In addition to treatment time, you must consider the following:

• Case complexity. 

Invisalign aligners are more suitable for misalignment issues and are ideal for patients with dental misalignments. Invisalign is suitable for minor issues, but complex cases will require braces because they offer more force and are able to treat complicated dental issues. Braces can address a broader range of dental problems, including severe misalignments.

• Patient commitment. 

Patient compliance is a must because Invisalign aligners are removable, and patients can take them out whenever they want. This is why commitment is required, and aligners must be worn for 22 hours a day to be effective. Failure to do this will extend treatment time, and you will not achieve the results you want. 

Braces are very different, however because they are fixed to the teeth, and patients wearing braces will not have the option to remove them. 

Pros and Cons of Traditional Braces

Pros

• They are effective. Braces can address complex dental issues, including large gaps in your teeth, crooked teeth, bite problems and overcrowding. 
• They are affordable. Braces are more affordable than other orthodontic treatments, which makes them accessible to a broader range of individuals who want to achieve a perfect smile. 

Cons

• It is noticeable. There’s no way to hide braces because the look of metal wires and brackets is very noticeable. This can cause some people to feel self-conscious, and it may lower your self-esteem. This is why many teenagers and adults gravitate towards Invisalign because it is a discreet way of straightening teeth.
• It can cause discomfort and sensitivity. The metal wires and brackets can irritate the mouth’s soft tissues, which can cause sores or ulcers. Additionally, you may experience some soreness or discomfort as your teeth shift into their correct positions. 

Pros and Cons of Invisalign

Pros

• Discreet appearance. This treatment consists of clear aligners, which means they are hardly noticeable. This is why this treatment is very popular amongst teenagers because Invisalign is barely noticeable, and you will not feel self-conscious about your appearance. 
• They are removable. Invisalign trays are removable, which allows for better oral hygiene because you can brush and floss as you normally would. Traditional braces can be challenging to clean around, and you will need specialty tools to clean around the metal brackets and wires. This is not the case with Invisalign, and you will be able to maintain a proper oral hygiene routine. 

Cons

• Cost. Invisalign is more expensive because of the advanced technology and additional laboratory work that is required.
• Mild soreness. Aligners can exert pressure on the teeth to align them gradually, and this can result in discomfort, especially during the first few days of each new aligner set. 

Which option is better?

In addition to considering the factors above, you must consider personal preferences, dental issues and financial considerations. The discreet appearance of Invisalign and its removability makes it a very attractive option, whereas braces are more affordable and ideal for severe dental problems. 

Conclusion

Are you looking for a dentist in Brights Grove? Lakeside Family Dental will provide you with more information regarding braces and Invisalign, and our dentist will help you make the right choice. 

Contact us today to schedule your next appointment!