If you are trying to decide between Braces vs Invisalign to straighten your teeth, or your kid’s teeth, you may have lots of questions. Which is more effective? Which looks better? Which is more convenient? and what is the difference between Invisalign and Braces. Making the decision can be difficult, so allow us to help you make the choice by outlining the differences between Braces and Invisalign.
Braces Vs. Invisalign: What is the difference:
Both Braces and Invisalign work towards achieving the same results – Straightening the teeth and improving oral health. However, the big difference lies within the process of how they straighten your teeth. The type of Orthodontic treatment that is suitable for you depends on the type of orthodontic problem you need to have corrected.
Braces: They consist of metal brackets attached to the outside of teeth, connected with wires and small rubber bands. Modern Orthodontics means that there are brackets available in colours to match your enamel, making them less visible, and you can get brackets in different colors to make a fashion statement. There are now different types of braces including ceramic and lingual braces which provide different kind of look to the traditional metal braces.
Invisalign: Invisalign uses aligner trays made of BPA-Plastic to subtly and gradually move your teeth. The plastic is made smooth and comfortable, so wearing the tray is an easy process. The aligner trays are configured using 3-D images of your teeth to ensure it is just the right fit. Unlike traditional braces, the Invisalign treatment has only been around for a little over fifteen years, but that does not lessen its effectiveness.
Benefits of Braces:
We will explore a list of what makes braces a good option depending on your case:
- Efficiency: Braces are extremely efficient at fixing complex Orthodontic problems and they often work faster at closing gaps and aligning teeth.
- Irremovable: Braces are permanently attached to your teeth and will therefore stay in place for the entire duration of your treatment. Which can be a good thing for patients as there is less to worry about.
- Treatment time: Because traditional braces are generally irremovable, the treatment time can often be quicker. Typically, traditional braces stay on from 18 months – 2 years for most patients.
- Number of follow up visits: Generally, you should visit your orthodontist every 4 weeks with traditional braces, but thanks to modern technology, visits can be spread out by about 6 weeks. One thing to note is that brackets can break and your wires can shift out of place if you bite on something too hard and in this case, you will have to make your visit to you orthodontist sooner.
- Cleaning: Cleaning traditional braces is generally easy. Braces require brushing and flossing just like you would without them.
Benefits of Invisalign:
- Removable: This is one of the biggest benefits to having Invisalign. As the trays can be removed, you can eat and drink without food getting stuck to the trays.
- Appearance: Most patients tend to prefer Invisalign because the trays are clear. Many people may not even notice when a patient is wearing them. This is a huge benefit for adults who want to straighten their teeth but have hesitated due to the appearance of metal braces at an older age.
- Number of follow up visits: Much of the Orthodontist’s work happens before you wear your aligners. Therefore, routine follow up visits with your orthodontist should happen just every 4 – 6 weeks.
- Comfort: The Invisalign treatment can be a bit more comfortable than metal braces as there are no brackets that can make you feel uncomfortable.
- Treatment time: Invisalign should be worn about 22-24 hours a day for 6 – 18 months depending on the patient’s needs. However, note that any deviation from this can add time to the process.
What are the downsides od Braces vs Invisalign?
- Braces: Some people do not like the look of traditional braces and they worry that they will feel self conscious about their appearance in social settings. Braces may also not be good for people in contact sports as the metal can damage tissue upon contact.
- Invisalign: Not every patient is suited for the Invisalign treatment. Patient that have bridgework, back tooth bite issues and other complex issues may not be suited for the Invisalign treatment.
The decision for braces or Invisalign really comes down to the patients needs and preferences which is why it is important to consult your orthodontist for clarification.
If you need help in deciding between Braces and Invisalign, get in touch with us at The Orthodontic Centre at Northland for a FREE consultation to help you reach the best possible choice for you or your child’s teeth straightening needs.
We are here to help you find your very best smile.