Invisalign and braces are two methods used to treat crooked teeth. They offer a straighter, more beautiful smile and can improve overall oral hygiene. The similarities between these methods, though, can make it hard to decide: Invisalign or braces?
Braces are a more traditional approach to straightening a smile. An orthodontist attaches metal brackets to your teeth, each of which is connected with a series of strong wires. The dentist tightens these wires to encourage teeth toward the desired result.
Meanwhile, Invisalign is a relatively new method for fixing crooked teeth. Instead of metal brackets and wires, dentists use clear plastic trays, similar to retainers. With a new tray every two weeks, Invisalign gently encourages teeth into a more desirable alignment.
Are you finally ready to get the straight smile of your dreams? Then you need to know your options. We’re guiding you through the pros and cons of Invisalign and braces next, so check it out.
The Pros and Cons of Invisalign
Invented in the 1990s, Invisalign is a significant step up from traditional metal braces. Yet, Invisalign isn’t for everyone. Invisalign isn’t ideal for:
- People with bridgework
- People whose teeth don’t meet in the back when biting down
- People who need to move teeth up or down
Another thing to consider is that you must be disciplined enough to leave Invisalign in for 22 or more hours every day. If you’re forgetful or tend to travel a lot, removable trays may not be for you.
Still with us? If so, here are the top pros and cons of wearing Invisalign clear aligners over traditional metal braces to help you with your decision.
Invisalign Is Discreet
Because Invisalign trays are clear, it’s hard to tell when someone is wearing them. If you’re concerned about the stigma of wearing braces, Invisalign is the choice for you.
Invisalign Takes Less Time
Compared to traditional metal braces, Invisalign can straighten teeth in less time. Of course, the exact timeline depends on your unique smile needs. Most people only wear clear aligners for 6 to 18 months.
Invisalign Is Foolproof to Clean
Invisalign clear aligner trays come with the proprietary Invisalign cleaning system. If you prefer to DIY it, you can also simply brush and rinse trays in warm water.
Cleaning Invisalign trays is much easier, less time-consuming, and more effective than trying to brush and floss around metal braces. In fact, studies have shown that people at risk of gingivitis are better off with clear aligners than traditional braces.
Invisalign Is Removable
Hate the idea of not seeing your teeth for months as you wait for them to move into place? Then you may prefer Invisalign. Invisalign trays can be removed for up to 2 hours per day to allow your teeth to breathe.
Invisalign Doesn’t Require Painful Tightening
When it’s time to move onto the next step of straightening, your dentist won’t have to tighten any wires. Instead, you just pick up a new sized tray and use it for two weeks.
Invisalign May Not Work for Severe Oral Issues
If you need your teeth to move vertically or have canines or molars that aren’t facing front, Invisalign probably isn’t for you. Invisalign also isn’t for people who need to fix certain kinds of open bites.
The Pros and Cons of Braces
Compared to Invisalign, braces are a tried and true method for straightening teeth. They’ve been around in some form or another since the beginning of the 1900s. In 1970, metal braces became what they are today.
One major draw to traditional braces is that there are almost no limitations to who can wear them. Dentists typically only recommend another method of straightening teeth for people who are prone to dental injuries, such as those who play rough contact sports.
Despite this, traditional braces do come with some pros and cons worth considering before going all-in with this teeth-straightening method. Check them out below.
Braces Aren’t Discreet
Braces are made up of metal brackets, wire, and rubber bands to hold them all together. Some dentists offer more natural color rubber banks these days. Still, even the most natural-looking braces aren’t nearly as discreet as Invisalign clear aligners.
Braces Can Be Less Expensive
Depending on your unique needs, braces can often cost less than Invisalign. Traditional braces can be more than half the price of braces. That’s why traditional metal braces are perfect for someone wanting to straighten their smile on a budget.
Cleaning Braces Is Difficult
Though cleaning braces has fewer steps than cleaning clear trays, it can be infinitely more tedious. You have to ensure you’re brushing your teeth as best as possible while also making sure you’re cleaning the brackets. You may need extra tools like water picks and other devices to keep your teeth clean and free of ulcers and germs.
You’ll Never Forget to Pack Your Braces
The good news about braces is you never have to worry about forgetting to put them on. Braces aren’t removable, which may be perfect for forgetful people or people who are unlikely to wear their Invisalign trays.
Getting Braces Tightened Is Painful
Once per month, you have to visit your orthodontist to get your braces tightened. This procedure can be excruciating and cause headaches. If that sounds like a nightmare, traditional braces are probably not for you.
Braces Can Cause Tooth Discoloration
If a bracket breaks, you wear braces for a longer time, or if you have trouble cleaning your braces, tooth discoloration can result. Unfortunately, the discoloration usually happens around the bracket. That means you’ll have an unsightly white blemish where the bracket was while the tooth around it is darker in color.
Get a Perfect Smile With Invisalign or Braces
When it comes to the question of Invisalign or braces, you’ve got to consider the pros and cons. Only then can you find the method that fits with your smile needs and your lifestyle.
Are you ready to get the smile of your dreams? At Webster Family Dental, we want you to put your best smile forward. Get in touch with us today to find out how we can do it for you!