Invisalign vs. Braces

With the new advancements in orthodontic technology, there are more types of braces and orthodontic treatment now than there ever have been before.

Invisalign is the newest addition to orthodontics and is one of the most popular options today. Invented in the 1990s, Invisalign uses aligner technology similar to plastic retainers to straighten teeth over time.

Traditional braces with brackets and wires are still widely used today and have proven that they hardly go out of style. But which option is truly the best? It’s up to you to decide.

Benefits of Invisalign

Invisalign provides the most freedom out of any of the newest orthodontic treatments and it is the closest option to invisible braces on the market today. Invisalign has numerous benefits for orthodontic treatment:

1. Invisibility

From teens to professional working adults, hardly anyone loves the way braces look on their teeth. Invisalign provides the invisibility people want in braces while still maintaining the reliability and results traditional braces give.

2. Eat Whatever You Want

One of the best things about Invisalign is they are removable, so you can take them out whenever you want. This is especially important when it is time to eat. Traditional braces limit what you can and cannot eat because some foods can damage brackets and wires. But with Invisalign, just take your aligners out and you’re free to eat anything you like. Just be sure to brush and floss afterward, and put your aligners back in as soon as possible.

3. Fast Treatment

Invisalign offers many different types of treatment based on your orthodontic need. Minor spacing issues can be solved in less than six months while moderate issues can be corrected in seven to nine months. The standard amount of time needed for Invisalign Full, however is 10 to 24 months, depending on your treatment needs.

4. Fewer Appointments

Invisalign users receive 10-12 aligner trays at each check up so they do not have to come back in for about three months. Invisalign streamlines the orthodontic process as long as you stay on top of your treatment and switch out your trays when necessary.

5. Easy to Use

Since there are less checkups with your orthodontist, Invisalign requires you to be responsible with your trays, but they are extremely easy to manage. Just make sure you store them in a safe, secure place when they are not in your mouth. Cleaning them is also easier than traditional braces: Once you remove them, just brush them with soap and warm water or soak them in a retainer cleaner.

Benefits of Braces

While Invisalign has become more and more popular, traditional braces are still the most popular of the many types of orthodontic treatment. There are still many great reasons to get this classic option:

1. Reliability

Traditional braces have proven to be reliable throughout the years. Every orthodontist knows how to work with them and how to make sure you get the best possible care when using them.

2. Personalization

Some of the newer advancements in classic braces styles is customization. You can personalize each bracket with different color rubber bands that hold the wire in place. These are changed out with every appointment so you can change your style whenever you want.

You can also get a truly personalized fit with custom braces. This advanced technology lets you finish treatment sooner with fewer appointments and gives you better results than ever.

3. Different Types

Instead of just silver brackets, you can now get ceramic to blend in more with the color of your teeth to make them less noticeable. Ceramic braces are the closest option to invisible braces while still going with the traditional brackets and wires on your teeth. They’re barely noticeable but still as strong as the classic silver braces.

4. Smaller Brackets

Back in the day, you would have to use huge brackets and sometimes even headgear during your orthodontic treatment. But today, your brackets and wires are smaller than ever, making it easier to clean and maintain them.

5. Low Price

Classic silver braces are still usually the least expensive option. If the cost is a major influence in your decision, silver braces might be the best way to go for your wallet.

Which One Is Right For You?

While both Invisalign and classic braces definitely have their perks, the final decision of which option to choose is up to you. Not everyone is the best candidate for Invisalign as it usually is used for less severe cases so you will need to talk to your orthodontist to learn what types of braces are best for you.