Invisalign vs. Braces

In today’s modern world of orthodontics, patients have many options to choose from including invisible type braces such as Invisalign.   No longer do braces have to be associated with a mouth full of metal.  Instead, patients are going for the clear alternatives that allow the entire orthodontic treatment to go unnoticed.   Clear orthodontics have become increasingly popular with adults and teens alike.

Traditional orthodontics consists of placing brackets individually to each tooth.   Once bonded, an arch wire is ran through the brackets and force is applied to allow for movement.    Orthodontist will then have regular adjustments and make tweaks by upgrading the wire, adding bands, etc.   While this form of orthodontics is severely aged, it is still the most common and extremely effective in most situations.   The cost of metal and ceramic braces will also be quite less than that of Invisalign.

The alternative to traditional braces is using clear aligners known as Invisalign.  Patients using Invisalign are given a series of trays known as aligners in which they will wear for a short period of time and then swap out to the next tray.  With the supervision of a dentist or orthodontist Invislaign is an effective procedure to straighten teeth and correct bites.  However, in mild to severe cases orthodontist are still more comfortable using metal or ceramic braces.   If your case is more on the difficult side, some orthodontist will recommend treating you with traditional braces, however many doctors are becoming extremely confident in Invisalign for all their cases.   You can look on the Invisalign for Invisalign Premium providers if your heart is set on this clear alternative.

Invisalign trays are clear and extremely invisible.  You will pay a premium for having this alternative to metal braces, but most patients agree that it is worth the extra cost to avoid wearing metal braces.

With Invislaign you can take our your tray in order to floss and brush.  This is a huge advantage as many patients biggest complaint is flossing with braces.

Invisalign and traditional braces have several concepts in common.    They are both designed to straighten and move teeth.    Invisalign continues to improve and offer advancements in their technology including attachments that work to adjust and correct bites.

If you are shopping for orthodontics, we recommend you get at least two opinions.  In many cases consultations are free, however you will have to pay for your molds.   You can simply bring your molds with you to each consultation.   This will allow you to get a good understanding of your case, as we are all different.

Here are some pro’s to using Invisalign vs Braces:

• Very invisible treatment.
• Goes unnoticed when wearing the trays.
• You may take out the trays to floss and brush.
• The aligners are removable anytime.
• Easier to keep up good hygiene.
• Very comfortable, as no wires to poke.

Pros Of Braces vs Invisalign:

• Usually less expensive.
• Orthodontist may be more confident in the final results.
• Are used in surgery cases and bite correction.
• Can accomplish vertical movements.
• Used in cases where rotation of the tooth is needed with great results.