If you’re thinking about orthodontics to get your teeth straight and improve your overall oral health, you’ve probably come across the popular debate of which is better: Invisalign or braces. What you should be asking yourself is, which is the right fit for you? Here is a list of positives and negatives for each treatment to help you decide.
Invisalign
Here are some advantages that Invisalign has when it comes to orthodontic treatment:
- Aesthetics: Many people want to improve their smile but dread how they will look with braces, so it only makes sense that clear aligners like Invisalign would appeal to them. It’s an especially attractive option for teens who are self-conscious about their appearance or adults who feel they’re too old for braces.
- Removable: Keeping your teeth clean during Invisalign treatment is much easier for the simple fact that you can take out your trays before you eat and not have chunks of your lunch stuck in them.
- Length of treatment: Whereas braces typically require two years or more of wearing them to achieve desired results, Invisalign users’ treatment ranges from 6 to 18 months.
- Comfort: Invisalign users don’t have to endure those monthly adjustments that take up time going to the orthodontist. Furthermore, the smooth plastic is much more comfortable than rough brackets and wires that can poke or irritate soft tissues.
Some cons of Invisalign:
- Severe orthodontic issues: If you’ve got major misalignment or gap issues, Invisalign may not be the best treatment for your condition as it’s equipped to handle mild to moderate issues.
- Self-discipline: It requires some discipline to put your aligners back in after eating or brushing and wear them the required 22 hours a day, whereas braces are there 24/7.
- Cost: Though it can range in price, Invisalign is, on average, more expensive than traditional braces. Be sure to get a breakdown of costs before making a decision.
Braces
Here are some pros associated with traditional braces:
- Major issues: Braces are better suited for fixing complex problems like overcrowding, spacing, and a misaligned jaw.
- Colorful options: While some prefer the discretion offered by clear aligners, for teens especially, it can be fun to pick your favorite colors or your favorite team’s colors when it comes to wearing elastics.
- Orthodontist does the work: For those who lack self-discipline, braces are a nice alternative as they are bonded to your teeth, removing the temptation to take them and leave them out. No keeping up with trays and potentially losing them.
- Monthly visits: It’s easier to keep up routines and maintenance knowing you’re going in every 4 weeks for adjustments and checkups.
Braces carry some disadvantages, including:
- Visibility: Braces are often installed during the teen years when individuals are most self-conscious. Having a mouth full of metal can make it difficult for some to smile, which could affect their mood.
- Dietary restrictions: It’s not recommended that you eat hard, sticky, or sugary foods when wearing braces. You also can’t simply remove them to enjoy your favorite foods and drinks.
- Discomfort: Your teeth will be sore for a while after your monthly adjustments, and you may find that the wires or brackets rub your gums and irritate them.
Each of these treatments has benefits and drawbacks; it all comes down to which one best suits your needs. Consult your dentist to see which might work best for you.
About the Practice
Thinking about orthodontic treatment? Wigal Orthodontics offers traditional and ceramic braces as well as Invisalign to give you a straight smile and better oral health! Our knowledgeable, experienced staff of specially trained orthodontists will consult you to offer you the best treatment for your unique needs. For more information or to contact one of our four offices, visit us online or call us at (740) 276-8484.