Invisalign or Braces, which is better?

Traditional braces and Invisalign aligners are the two most common orthodontic procedures for correcting misaligned teeth. Most importantly, both are FDA-approved appliances that provide good results. So, choosing which option is better for you is difficult.

When choosing between braces and Invisalign, you should consider all the factors like effectiveness, comfortability, and cost. This article will help you to know everything you need to decide between braces and Invisalign.

Invisalign vs Braces

Generally, braces are made of metal and attached to the exterior of the teeth. In braces, metal wires are connected to the brackets and modify your teeth to fix orthodontic issues.

Invisalign is a brand that makes transparent or clear aligners. These orthodontic appliances fix your misaligned teeth. Invisalign aligners exert pressure on teeth and steer them into the correct position. Clear aligners are a better option than traditional metal braces.

Advantages of Invisalign

• Invisalign aligners look better as Invisalign treatment uses clear plastic aligners. They are custom-made and fit perfectly on your teeth. Furthermore, these aligners look invisible from a distance. Due to this reason, many people choose aligners over braces.
• The process of aligning the teeth is not always comfortable. However, Invisalign provides a more comfortable treatment as they don't cause cuts, unlike braces.
• Invisalign aligners are removable, which means you can remove the tray and brush and floss easily. These aligners do not require lengthy and complicated dental care like braces.

Disadvantages of Invisalign

• You should remove your Invisalign tray while drinking and eating. Food can harm the soft plastic of aligners. Furthermore, the transparent plastic stains easily and distorts when heated. Therefore, you should remove the aligners before consuming hot or colored liquids.
• Invisalign aligners are fully custom-made so they are more expensive than traditional braces.
• Transparent aligners are not suitable for everyone and are best suited to patients who only require minimal straightening.

Advantages of braces

• Suitable for complex corrections. They are a standard treatment for mild to severe cases. Braces are more effective than clear aligners since they adhere directly to each tooth, resulting in a stunning smile in even the most challenging circumstances.
• They do not stain and are heat resistant, so you can drink tea, coffee, or other drinks without having to remove aligners.
• Unlike Invisalign aligners, braces cannot be removed without the assistance of an orthodontist. There is no need to remove braces before eating or keep them in place for at least 20 hours each day. This basic treatment approach is beneficial for children, teenagers, and adults alike.

Disadvantages of braces

• Metal braces are uncomfortable. They are difficult to adjust to and can cause discomfort or cuts inside the mouth.
• Braces, particularly conventional metal braces, are visible to others. While ceramic braces are less visible, they are still more visible than Invisalign on average.
• Braces necessitate regular visits to the orthodontist.

Conclusion

Before getting Invisalign or braces, you should discuss your case with your orthodontist and then make an informed decision. Orthodontic treatment depends on the type of orthodontic problem. Invisalign might not be the best option for certain people. Therefore, it is essential to seek expert guidance from your orthodontist.

Contact your Lafayette dentist, Dr. Massood Darvishzadeh, DDS at Lafayette Dental Group today to learn more about Invisalign or braces.

*This media/content or any other on this website does not prescribe, recommend, or prevent any treatment or procedure. Therefore, we highly recommend that you get the advice of a qualified dentist or other medical practitioners regarding your specific dental condition*