If you want straighter teeth, you’ve probably heard about both braces and Invisalign. Which is right for you?
Invisalign® and traditional braces straighten misaligned bites to enhance the appearance of your smile and make it as easy as possible to care for your teeth.
Invisalign is a discreet, convenient alternative to metal braces. However, patients with severe misalignment or jaw-related issues may be better suited to braces.
The most obvious difference is in how each treatment works…
Braces move teeth with the force of brackets, wires, and rubber bands that are tightened periodically. Invisalign uses removable plastic trays.
What does this mean for me, as a patient?
While ceramic braces blend in with the teeth to an extent, metal braces are hard to miss. In contrast, most people don’t even realize patients are wearing transparent Invisalign trays.
Because traditional braces are much more powerful, dentists usually recommend them for severe misalignment. Invisalign is a more viable option for mild to moderate cases.
While metal braces remain attached to the teeth throughout treatment, patients can remove Invisalign when necessary. As a result, flossing and brushing are easier and patients can still enjoy all their favorite foods.
The treatments share more similarities than differences, though…
While the time investment, cost, and aesthetics may differ, both braces and Invisalign offer the same outcome: a noticeably straighter smile.
To maintain results, patients may need to wear a retainer for at least the same amount of time as their orthodontic treatment. Over time, you will only need to wear the retainer at night.
Regardless of which treatment you choose, the results make brushing and flossing more effective. When your teeth are straight, it is easier to clean your smile and prevent decay.
Aren’t orthodontics usually for teenagers?
From 2012 to 2014, adults seeking treatment from orthodontists in the United States and Canada increased significantly.
So what are the benefits and risks of each?
| Braces | Invisalign | |
|---|---|---|
| Straighter smile | X | X |
| Inconspicuous treatment | X | |
| Good for severe misalignment | X | |
| Removable | X |
| Braces | Invisalign | |
|---|---|---|
| Discomfort | X | |
| Retainer needed to avoid re-treatment | X | X |
| Longer timeline | X | |
| Greater cost | X |
Most orthodontic options require a considerable time investment. If you prefer more immediate results, your doctor may recommend porcelain veneers or dental crowns. While these restorations cannot correct underlying misalignment, they can quickly improve the appearance of your smile in two appointments or less.
When deciding whether braces or Invisalign is right for you, ask yourself:
This last point is especially important. If you forget to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours a day, you may prolong your treatment timeline. Your doctor can recommend which option is best suited to your aesthetic and oral health needs during an in-depth consultation.
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