Braces Vs Invisalign – Which One’s The Best For You?

Braces Vs Invisalign – Which One’s The Best For You?

Invisalign and braces are both used to redress the placement of teeth. Sometimes they need to be used along with the extraction of extra teeth to make the placement within the jaw correct. Sometimes this change is for purely cosmetic reasons, such as to move crooked teeth that cause the patient feel self-conscious. Other times, the patient needs their bite to be changed for health reasons. Some problems in alignment of the teeth can lead to painful jaw conditions or difficulty with food.

Braces

Braces have been around since the early 1800s. They have come a long way since then and continue to be the most popular orthodontic treatment. They are made of metal wires and brackets that sit on top of the teeth to straighten teeth. A mold will be taken of the mouth to get the correct dimensions and measurements. Every month, the braces are adjusted, and the rubber bands on the brackets are changed. Patients with braces typically have to wear the braces for 18 months to two years, though the treatment can last longer.

Invisalign

Invisalign doesn’t have the history as braces do. Patients first started using the Invisalign treatment technique in 2000. Invisalign consists of two, clear BPA-free, plastic trays that one slips over the teeth. Unlike braces, Invisalign trays are removable. Invisalign trays are fitted using x-rays and 3D digital imaging. The treatment time is significantly shorter. Its popularity comes from its easy maintenance and its clear, transparent appearance. The trays are replaced every two weeks. They also are less painful than braces.

Braces vs Invisalign: Pros and Cons

Both braces and Invisalign have their advantages and disadvantages. Both can be expensive and will require some time and maintenance requirement. Before deciding one is better than the other, consider the pros and cons of both.

Pros

Braces
  • More efficient for complex issues.
  • Less self-discipline is needed for success since you are not tempted to leave them out.
  • No extra cleaning steps required besides regular brushing and flossing. Cleaning between the wires can be difficult, however.
  • Lower price than Invisalign.
  • Can pay extra for a clearer, enamel color to disguise the metal
  • Monthly follow-up visits
Invisalign
  • The are Invisible.
  • They can be removed.
  • No issues with food getting caught.
  • No difficulty eating.
  • No discomfort from wires.
  • Is typically worn for 6-18 months.
  • Brushing and rinsing trays in lukewarm water.

Cons

Braces
  • May have some sores, pain or discomfort from wires, brackets or tooth movement.
  • May cause tooth breakage or discoloration.
  • Causes difficulty when eating sticky or hard foods.
  • Irremovable
  • Worn for an average of 2 years.
Invisalign
  • May cause discomfort during the movement of the tooth.
  • Must be removed before eating or drinking anything but water.
  • Invisalign are brushed after each meal to avoid staining.
  • Requires follow-up visits every two weeks.

Both braces and Invisalign treatment methods may require the ongoing use of a positioner or retainer after treatment to maintain the achieved results.

Braces are ideal for patients with more severe dental alignment problems, including those with bridge work, canines or premolars that need to be rotated, those with back tooth bite issues, need teeth that need to be moved vertically and those with a lack of discipline needed to clean and maintain the Invisalign trays