Invisalign vs Braces: Which Teeth Straightening Option Is Right for You?

Imagine flashing a dazzling bright smile whenever and wherever you are. Sounds too good to be true? All thanks to modern orthodontics, a perfect smile is now achievable. Invisalign and braces are two well-known dental care solutions.

Both of them can help straighten your teeth, however, they have their benefits and drawbacks. When Invisalign and braces vying for your attention, it might be a bit confusing to decide which of the two is most ideal. Thus, an orthodontist can clear all your doubts about the appropriate dental treatment.

This article will cover Invisalign vs braces comparison, their pros and cons, treatment time, and cost.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth and improves the alignment of the bite. It works by using transparent and removable aligners made from BPA-free plastic.  

Therefore, Invisalign is now widely used as an alternative to traditional metal braces. 

Every set of aligners is customized to fit your unique smile. These clear aligners will shift your teeth to the ideal spot over time. The repositioning process uses controlled and gentle pressure from aligners.

What are traditional braces?

These are conventional orthodontic appliances made of metal alloys. Traditional braces contain stainless steel or ceramic brackets, elastic bands, and wires. They are very effective for straightening misaligned teeth and providing better jaw alignment.

Advantages of Invisalign

Invisalign aligners have transformed traditional orthodontic care. Now teeth straightening and bite alignment treatments are convenient and painless. Here are some benefits of Invisalign over traditional metal braces:

Aesthetic appeal

For those who are particular about appearance, Invisalign is the ultimate solution. Aligners are virtually invisible, both adults and teens can wear them anywhere, anytime. They help overcome the stigmas often associated with wearing traditional metal braces.

Removable and convenient

Invisalign aligners are convenient and easy to remove. This way you can eat, drink, brush and floss to keep your oral hygiene in good condition. 

Comfortable and pain-free

The BPA-free plastic material of Invisalign is comfortable and will not irritate your mouth or gums. The re-shifting process will be painless, ensuring high-end orthodontic results. 

Faster treatment time

Invisalign treatment duration is usually 6-18 months, which is much faster than conventional metal braces. It will take less time to achieve similar results as compared to other treatments.

Fewer office visits 

Invisalign requires fewer office visits than braces treatment. You may need to visit the orthodontist every 4-6 weeks to monitor the progress and receive new aligners.

No food restrictions

Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners do not have any food restrictions. You can eat your favorite foods and beverages without worrying about damaging your aligners.

Wide range of treatable cases

Invisalign can address mild to moderate dental issues. For example, it can treat overbite, underbite, rotated and gapped teeth efficiently. Thus, you can enjoy a distinctive, radiant smile with Invisalign treatment. 

Invisalign disadvantages

Many people consider Invisalign the best way to straighten teeth, however, it has its fair share of disadvantages. Here are some disadvantages of Invisalign:

Cost

Invisalign treatment is more expensive than traditional braces. The price of Invisalign is typically $3,000 to $8,000. Moreover, the cost also depends on  complexity of the case, location, personal preferences and services.

Removable, but must be worn

Invisalign must be worn for 22 hours daily. Therefore, forgetting or failing to wear aligners for the said amount of hours may extend the treatment period.

Pain or discomfort

When wearing a new set of aligners, many can face pain, irritation and slight discomfort. However, the symptoms are mild and temporary.

Dryness

Invisalign aligners stimulate salivary glands in the oral cavity which increase saliva. High production of saliva can cause frequent dryness in the mouth.

Loss or damage

Invisalign aligners can be damaged, if not handled carefully. Always store them in a case when not in use and do not expose to extreme temperatures or harsh cleaning agents.

Advantages of braces

Braces are the best conventional and inexpensive orthodontic solution. Though many people consider them old-fashioned, they have the following benefits.

Accurate control

Orthodontists can make minute adjustments with traditional braces because they provide accurate control over tooth movement. This high degree of control allows them to achieve the best possible alignment of teeth and correction of the bite.

Effective tooth movement

Braces can move teeth more efficiently than Invisalign, especially in cases where significant tooth movement is required. This is because braces apply continuous pressure to the teeth, whereas Invisalign aligners work through a series of incremental movements.

Cost-effective

Braces are generally cheaper than Invisalign, which means they can be offered to a wide range of patients.

Range of treatment options

For complicated dental cases, metal brackets and wires can function well. In fact, only braces can deliver a good level of control and precision in addressing issues like crooked teeth.

Braces disadvantages

Just like any other dental treatment, braces have their downsides. Here are some of the major disadvantages of braces.

Aesthetics

Traditional braces may be noticeable, which can affect the aesthetic appeal. This is a disadvantage for teenage and adult wearers who are concerned about their looks.

Discomfort

Braces can be painful and cause a lot of discomfort, when first applied or when wire adjustments are done.

Dietary restrictions

The braces traditionally have dietary restrictions. Avoid certain foods that are sticky, hard, or crunchy as they might damage the brackets and the wires.

Oral hygiene challenges

Braces will make it difficult for an individual to achieve good oral hygiene. The food particles and plaque build up and deposit around the brackets and wires.

Time-consuming

Traditional braces will need constant adjustments and frequent orthodontist visits, which is time consuming and frustrating.

Factors to consider when choosing between Invisalign and braces

When selecting between Invisalign and braces, make sure to consider the following factors:

• Misalignment Level: For more complicated and severe dental misalignments, traditional braces are more effective. However, Invisalign is good for mild or moderate misalignment.

• Visibility: Traditional braces come in different colors and styles, while Invisalign aligners are clear and nearly invisible. So, if the metal braces affect your appearance, try Invisalign aligners.

• Convenience: Invisalign aligners are easily removable. Thus, you can eat, drink, and maintain oral health conveniently.

• Treatment Time: Traditional braces require frequent adjustments and the treatment may take 1-3 years. On the other hand, Invisalign span is usually 6-18 months.

• Travel and Scheduling: If you have a tight schedule, study, work and travel frequently, Invisalign is more convenient.

• Results: Both Invisalign and traditional braces give excellent results, but it also depends on the complexity of the issue and wearer compliance.

• Age: Invisalign aligners are good for teenagers and adults, whereas braces are recommended for all age groups. 

Which treatment option is best for straightening your teeth?

Braces and Invisalign both work effectively to straighten the crooked, and gapped teeth. Before selecting between the two, you must visit your dentist. At Smile Dental Riverview, we will assess your dental health, personal preferences, and compliance to devise a suitable treatment plan. 

People who want to maintain aesthetic appeal should choose Invisalign as it is transparent. But, if the orthodontic issue is adverse, traditional metal braces will be a good option.

Final thoughts: Choosing the right method

Invisalign vs braces debate is nothing but to address the underlying orthodontic problem effectively. Both of them have their distinct pros and cons. The best way to make an informed decision is to have all the information and then consult with the orthodontist.