Which is Better Invisalign or Braces

Invisalign and braces are both options for straightening your teeth. While both procedures provide similar benefits, they are many things that make them different.

Traditional Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most common type of orthodontic device, and they’re also the most affordable for most patients. This style of braces uses brackets and wires to move teeth into proper alignment. With traditional braces, your dentist will tighten your braces at each visit to ensure the teeth are moving properly. Each patient will have a different timeline for how often they’ll have to see their dentist to make adjustments to them. On average, patients will see them about once every four to six weeks. Metal braces are more durable than ceramic braces, which can break more easily when eating certain foods. However, many patients who choose this type also like the clear bands that hold the brackets in place because they blend in well with the natural color of the teeth. The bands and metallic brackets are also much smaller and less noticeable than traditional, large metal brackets.

Invisalign

Invisalign is another type of orthodontic treatment that uses clear plastic trays to gradually move the teeth into place. These aligners are made to fit snugly over the teeth and are made of BPA-free plastic that is clear and practically invisible to the naked eye. Unlike traditional braces that are attached to the teeth with metal bands and brackets, Invisalign aligners can be removed so the patient can eat what they want and clean their teeth normally. Patients with Invisalign should wear their aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day for the treatment to be effective, but they can remove them to eat and brush their teeth. Because the aligners are so clear, they’re a great option for older teens and adults who want to straighten their teeth without the look of metal braces on their teeth. Since aligners are removed while eating, some patients find it difficult to eat chewy foods and sticky sweets that can easily be removed with traditional braces.

How Do I Choose Between Invisalign and Braces?

Both Invisalign and traditional braces work to treat many of the same orthodontic problems. Here, we’ll break down which treatment might work better for you, depending on your unique case.

• Traditional braces are great for minor to moderate alignment issues, including underbite, overbite, crossbite, crowding, and more. But they are also permanent because the brackets are bonded to the teeth.
• On the other hand, Invisalign is discreet and removable for eating and cleaning your teeth. The aligners are also clear and custom-made to fit comfortably over your top and bottom teeth. Over time, the aligners shift the teeth into place gradually.

The dentist can best help determine which orthodontic treatment option is right for you.

For more information about orthodontic treatments, visit Englewood Dentistry at 334 Grand Ave, Englewood 07631, or call (201) 541-8111.