Invisalign vs Braces: Which Is Best?

Braces and Invisalign are the two most popular forms of orthodontic treatment. There are many pros and cons to both. Here is a brief overview to help you choose the option that is best for you.

Braces

Braces are the more traditional method of orthodontic treatment that’s been used as an effective way to straighten smiles for decades. Nowadays there are plenty of options to choose from that depart from the traditional clunky metal and wire braces of days past. With options for adding personal style through choosing different colors, to less visible options, braces have a completely revamped look. However, braces are still visible, and some patients may find that uncomfortable, especially adults seeking treatment later in life.

Depending on the issues being fixed, braces may offer shorter treatment times when closing gaps between teeth. Braces are also often more ideal for more complex orthodontic issues that need to be fixed. A third benefit of braces is you don’t have to worry about remembering to wear them because they are attached to your teeth.

Braces also depend on a lot of upkeep and can disrupt a patient’s routine at first. With braces, it is important that you brush and floss after every meal since the risk of gum disease and tooth decay increase with this treatment. Because of the hardware, it’s also important that patients avoid crunchy, hard, or overly chewy food to keep from damaging the brackets and wires.

Invisalign

Invisalign straightens teeth with clear aligners made from molds of your mouth. These aligners need to be worn at least 22 hours a day but are virtually invisible to others. Invisalign requires fewer in-office visits, so they are perfect for the busy patient and are ideal for adults seeking orthodontic treatment who don’t want to have their lives interrupted. 

Invisalign is also known to be more comfortable than wearing braces. There is also no need to change your eating habits with Invisalign. You take out your aligners to eat, but it’s important to remember to brush after each meal and put them back in after you finish eating. 

Having to remember to wear the aligners can be a big adjustment for many patients. Being able to take them out also poses the risk of losing your aligners, which can become costly to replace and can interrupt treatment plans. Forgetting to wear aligners can also prolong treatment times.

In the end, every smile is unique, and every option for creating that perfect smile is different. When considering Invisalign vs braces, work with your orthodontist to choose the option that will be best for your lifestyle and for your smile.