When it comes to straightening teeth, traditional braces and Invisalign are two choices you can make, both having pros and cons. Knowing the differences and similarities can aid your decision on what treatment works for you.
In this blog post, we will identify the important differences between Invisalign in Red Deer and braces to assist you in making a decision for your dental health.
What Are Braces?
Braces are traditional appliances that consist of metal brackets glued on to your teeth. These brackets have wire and small elastic bands connecting them. A Red Deer dentist tightens the wire over a period of time, slowly shifting your teeth to the correct position. Braces have been around for years and are a very effective option for straightening teeth, especially in complicated cases.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a modern, clear way to straighten teeth. It uses a series of custom, clear plastic aligners that fit over your teeth. Invisalign gradually moves your teeth, like braces; however, it is relatively invisible which is a great benefit.
The aligners used here, unlike braces, are removable so the aligners can be removed when eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth.
Invisalign vs Braces
1. Appearance
One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign is the appearance. Braces are visible in the mouth, and a lot of people are self-conscious about how they look with braces on. Invisalign vs braces- which is faster? Many people consciously choose to wear Invisalign over braces, due to being almost invisible. After all, the invisible UI aligners are a lot less visible and intrusive than the bulky metal brackets. Invisalign makes it easier for the person to just smile while being treated, rather than the metallic, boxy feel of braces.
2. Comfort
Braces also can sometimes be uncomfortable. Braces can’t cause sores in the mouth due to the brackets and wires. After each adjustment, you will most likely feel soreness as you adapt to the wire moving your teeth. Aligners will cause pressure when they move your teeth- however, it is nothing like the discomfort that you will endure with braces. So some people simply find invisalign more comfortable than braces.
3. Dietary Restrictions
As far as braces are concerned, there are some problematic foods. Hard, and especially sticky, foods can cause a problem. E.g., popcorn, chewing gum, etc. can cause food to get stuck in the braces, and in some instances, completely loosen them. Crunchy foods also need to be monitored, as they can cause wires and brackets to break.
With Invisalign, you can remove the aligners before eating, which means you don’t have to worry about any dietary restrictions. You can eat whatever you want, and then simply put your aligners back in once you’re done.
4. Dental Hygiene
Brushing and flossing with traditional braces is much more of a hassle. We already know that you need to be brushing 2-3 times a day and flossing daily, so it is crucial that you are keeping your mouth clean during the braces treatment. You cannot use the easy “swipe and go” method of brushing and flossing while you have braces. With Invisalign, you are able to easily brush and floss as you are used to, and without modifying your technique.
5. Treatment Duration
In general, both braces and Invisalign are effective for straightening teeth. The length of treatment will depend on the severity of your dental issues. However, Invisalign vs braces, which is faster?. Invisalign tends to have a faster treatment time for most cases. Some people find that their teeth straighten more quickly with Invisalign because the aligners are changed every two weeks, allowing for gradual but consistent movement.
6. Cost
Cost can be an important factor when choosing between braces and Invisalign. Braces are often more affordable than Invisalign, especially if you’re dealing with complex orthodontic issues that require more extensive treatment. Invisalign can be more expensive, but many people feel the extra cost is worth it for the convenience, comfort, and aesthetics it offers.
Is it better to get Invisalign or braces?
Both Invisalign and traditional braces are effective at straightening teeth, but the choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.
- Invisalign is ideal for those who want a more discreet and comfortable option. It’s perfect for individuals who are self-conscious about wearing braces, as well as those who need a treatment option that fits into their lifestyle without the restrictions that come with traditional braces.
- Braces, on the other hand, may be the better option if you have more severe dental issues. Braces can correct a wider range of problems, such as severe bite issues, and they don’t require as much self-discipline as Invisalign, which needs to be worn for 20-22 hours a day.
Ready to take a step towards a Perfect Smile?
At the end of the day, whether you choose Invisalign or braces depends on your preferences and specific dental needs. If you’re looking for a more discreet and flexible option, Invisalign might be the way to go. If you need a more robust treatment for complex issues, traditional braces could be a better option.
At Saby Dental, our team of experts is ready to help you find the best orthodontic solution for your smile. Whether you’re interested in Invisalign or traditional braces, we’ll work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that suits your lifestyle and goals.
Contact Saby Dental today to schedule your consultation and discover which option is right for you!