Making the Right Choice for Your Smile
Invisalign vs. Braces
When your treatment objective is a straighter smile, two popular options often come to mind: Invisalign and traditional braces. Both Invisalign and traditional metal braces have their own advantages and disadvantages; in other words, both treatment methods have pros and cons.
Therefore, deciding between the two treatment methods may sometimes be a pretty knotty choice for anyone seeking orthodontic treatment.
In this blog post, we will dive into the differences between Invisalign and braces, and our goal by the end of this blog post is to give you enough information for you to be able to make a knowledgeable decision about which option might be the better option for your very specific needs.
At Shore Side Dentistry in Oakville, Ontario, you will meet with qualified Invisalign dentists who are trained and ready to guide you on your journey to the smile you have always wanted.
Defining Invisalign and Braces
Before we delve into the differences, let’s establish what Invisalign and braces actually are:
Invisalign: Invisalign is a modern dental treatment method for orthodontic issues. The Invisalign process involves using a series of clear, removable aligners designed to help straighten your teeth gradually.
These Invisalign aligners are custom-produced to fit your teeth snugly and are virtually invisible when worn.
Braces: Traditional braces consist of metal or ceramic brackets attached to your teeth.
These brackets are connected by wires and adjusted periodically by an orthodontist to move your teeth into their desired positions.
Braces also include small bands called ligatures that secure the wires to the brackets.
Now that we’ve defined our subjects let’s explore the key differences between Invisalign and braces:
The Key Differences Between
Invisalign and Braces
1. Costs
Invisalign: Invisalign tends to be more expensive than traditional braces. The higher cost is primarily due to the advanced technology involved in creating custom aligners for each patient.
Additionally, Invisalign treatment may require more frequent check-ups.
Braces: Traditional braces are generally more cost-effective. The materials used, such as metal or ceramic, are less expensive than producing custom aligners.
However, the overall cost may vary depending on your case’s complexity and the treatment duration.
2. Comfort During Treatment
Invisalign: Invisalign aligners are known for their comfort. The aligners are made with smooth, clear plastic that minimizes irritation to your cheeks and gums.
Since they are removable, you can easily take them out for eating and cleaning, providing additional comfort and convenience.
Braces: Braces can cause some discomfort initially, as the brackets and wires may irritate the soft tissues in your mouth.
However, most patients adapt to the sensation within a few weeks.
Eating certain foods can be challenging with braces, and maintaining oral hygiene can be more involved due to the fixed nature of the appliances.
3. Number of Appointments Needed
Invisalign: Invisalign typically requires fewer in-office appointments compared to traditional braces.
You’ll receive several sets of aligners at once and change them at home according to your orthodontist’s instructions. Regular check-ups are still necessary but tend to be less frequent.
Braces: You’ll need regular adjustments with braces, which means more frequent visits to your dentist.
These appointments are essential. In these appointments your dentist will tighten wires, and make modifications that may be necessary to your treatment plan.
4. Duration of Treatment
Invisalign: The duration of Invisalign treatment can vary depending on the complexity of your case. Generally, achieving the desired results may take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.
Braces: Traditional braces typically require a longer treatment duration, often 1 to 3 years, depending on the extent of correction needed.
5. Quality of Final Results
Invisalign: Invisalign is known for its ability to achieve precise results, especially for mild to moderate orthodontic issues.
The digital technology used in the planning process allows for a high degree of accuracy.
Braces: Traditional braces are highly effective at correcting many orthodontic problems, including more severe cases.
The hands-on approach of your dentist in making adjustments to your braces will ensures precise control over tooth movement.
6. Discomfort and Pain
Invisalign: While Invisalign is generally more comfortable than braces, some patients might experience discomfort or a sense of pressure when transitioning to a new set of aligners.
This discomfort is usually manageable and subsides quickly.
Braces: Braces can cause soreness and discomfort, particularly after adjustments.
However, you should note that the pain is generally of a mild nature and can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relief options or orthodontic wax, which helps reduce friction.
7. Other Important Differences
Aside from the critical differences mentioned above, there are a few more factors to consider when choosing between Invisalign and braces:
Aesthetics: A big plus for the people who seek to be discreet about the fact that they are straightening their teeth to get a better smile, Invisalign aligners are practically invisible when worn, making the clear aligners a more discreet option.
Traditional braces, on the other hand, are more noticeable due to their metal brackets and wires.
Dietary Restrictions: Invisalign allows you to eat whatever you like since you can remove the aligners during meals.
With braces, you’ll need to avoid certain foods that could damage the brackets and wires.
Oral Hygiene: Another big plus with Invisalign is oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment.
The fact that you can remove the aligners for brushing and flossing your teeth, Invisalign helps you maintain good oral hygiene during treatment. Braces require more diligence to clean around the brackets and wires.
So, Which Treatment Method Is Better?
The choice between Invisalign and braces ultimately depends on your individual needs, preferences, and orthodontic requirements.
Invisalign is generally an excellent treatment option for those people who are seeking a more discreet, comfortable, and convenient treatment method. However, sometimes, it may so happen that Invisalign is the costlier option.
Braces, while more noticeable and initially less comfortable, are highly effective for a wide range of orthodontic issues and are generally more budget-friendly.
It’s crucial to consult with an experienced and Invisalign-trained dentist, like the trained Invisalign dentists at Shore Side Dentistry in Oakville, Ontario, to determine which treatment option best fits your specific case.
Remember that both Invisalign and braces can lead to a beautiful, straight smile that enhances your oral health and self-confidence.
In the end, the “better” option is the one that helps you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
If you want to learn more or find out if Invisalign treatment is right for you then call us at 905-842-2364 to set up an appointment with one of our dentists who are trained on Invisalign.
