Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces: Choosing the Right Orthodontic Treatment
There are a number of reasons you might find yourself in need of orthodontic work. When this time comes, many people find themselves torn between traditional braces and aligners like Invisalign. With costs in both time and money, it’s only natural (and important) to evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of each option. Both treatments are designed to give you a beautiful, straight smile, but they work in different ways and offer unique advantages.
As a significant decision for your dental health, it’s important to do your homework, ask the right questions, and work closely with your orthodontist to make the best choice for your specific needs. The right treatment for you will depend on the nature of your orthodontic issues, for example, aligners may not be suitable for everyone, which is why professional guidance is crucial.
In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of aligners like invisalign and braces, giving you the information you need to make an informed decision about your orthodontic treatment.
What Are Aligners?
Aligners are clear, removable mouthpieces that fit snugly over your teeth. They’re custom-made for your mouth, and are designed to gradually move your teeth into the desired position over time.
While the term Invisalign is often used interchangeably for aligners, they are in fact only one of many brands that offer clear aligners or ‘invisible braces’. You’ll find other brands like ClearCorrect offer the same great service often at a lesser cost.
How do they work?
The process starts with a digital scan or physical impression of your teeth. This information is used to create a series of clear aligners that will be worn over your teeth. Each aligner is slightly different from the last, applying gentle pressure on your teeth to move them little by little into alignment. Every week or two, you’ll switch to the next set of aligners, continuing the process until your teeth are perfectly straight.
The Benefits of Aligners
- Discreet Appearance: One of the biggest advantages of aligners is that they’re nearly invisible (hence invisalign). Unlike traditional braces, which use metal brackets and wires, aligners are clear and blend in with your teeth. This makes them a popular choice for adults and teens who want to straighten their teeth without drawing attention.
- Comfort: Aligners are made of smooth plastic, which means they’re less likely to cause irritation to your gums and/or the inside of your cheeks. Traditional braces, on the other hand, can sometimes cause discomfort with their metal components.
- Removability: Aligners are removable, which means you can take them out when eating, drinking (anything other than water), brushing, and flossing. This allows you to maintain your normal oral hygiene routine without having to work around brackets and wires.
- Fewer Office Visits: With aligners, you typically don’t need to visit the orthodontist as frequently as you would with braces. After receiving your aligners, you can manage much of the treatment on your own by switching to the next set of trays according to your orthodontist’s instructions.
The Drawbacks of Aligners Like Invisalign
- Discipline Required: For aligners to be effective, you need to wear them for 20-22 hours a day. This means you’ll need to be disciplined about keeping them in your mouth, even when it might be tempting to take them out for a social event or just because they’re a bit uncomfortable.
- Limited Suitability: Aligners like Invisalign often aren’t suitable for more complex orthodontic issues. If your teeth are severely misaligned or you have significant bite problems, traditional braces might be a better option.
- Cost: Aligners can be more expensive than traditional braces. The cost will vary depending on your location, the complexity of your case, and the length of treatment, but it’s something to keep in mind when making your decision.
- Possible Speech Impact: Some people find that aligners temporarily affect their speech, particularly when they first start wearing them. This usually improves as you get used to the aligners, but it’s something to consider if you’re concerned about this impact.
What Are Traditional Braces?
Traditional braces have been used for decades to straighten teeth and resolve bit issues. They consist of metal brackets that are attached to the front of your teeth and connected by wires.
How do they work?
After the brackets are glued to your teeth, a wire is threaded through them. The orthodontist tightens this wire periodically, which applies pressure to your teeth, moving them into place over time. The process usually takes between one to three years, depending on the severity of your dental issues.
The Benefits of Traditional Braces
- Effective for All Cases: Braces are highly effective at treating a wide range of dental issues, from mild misalignments to severe cases. They’re often the best option for complex issues, such as major bite problems or significant gaps between teeth.
- No Need for Self-Discipline: Unlike aligners, braces work 24/7. No effort required. Once they’re on, you don’t have to worry about remembering to wear them, which can be a big relief for some.
- Predictable Results: Braces have been used for many years, and their results are well-documented. You can trust that they’ll get the job done, no matter how challenging your dental issues might be.
- Cost: In many cases, traditional braces can be more affordable than aligners, making them a good option if you’re looking to keep costs down.
The Drawbacks of Traditional Braces
- Aesthetic Concerns: One of the most significant drawbacks of braces is their appearance. The metal brackets and wires are visible, which can make some people feel self-conscious.
- Comfort Issues: Braces can cause discomfort, particularly after adjustments. The metal components can also irritate the inside of your mouth, leading to sore spots or cuts on your gums and cheeks.
- Food Restrictions: With braces, you’ll need to avoid certain foods that could damage the brackets or get stuck in the wires. Sticky or hard foods, such as caramel or nuts, are typically off-limits.
- Oral Hygiene Challenges: Brushing and flossing with braces can be tricky, as food particles can easily get trapped around the brackets and wires. You’ll need to spend extra time on your oral hygiene routine to keep your teeth and gums healthy during treatment.
Breaking Down the Differences: Traditional Braces vs Invisalign
Category | Aligners (e.g., Invisalign) | Traditional Braces |
Aesthetics | Nearly invisible, ideal if appearance is a concern. | Noticeable. |
Comfort | Generally more comfortable, made of smooth plastic. | Can cause irritation, especially after adjustments. |
Convenience | Removable, allowing you to eat freely and maintain regular oral hygiene. However, this requires discipline. | Less convenient due to food restrictions and cleaning. However, there’s no need to remember to wear them. |
Effectiveness | Effective for straightening teeth but may not be suitable for severe cases. | Effective for straightening teeth and treating more complex dental issues. |
Cost | Often more expensive. Cost varies, so a detailed estimate is important. | Generally less expensive, but varies case by case. |
Speed | Can work faster for minor adjustments but speed depends on the specific case. | More predictable results and faster for complex issues. |
Should I Get Braces or Invisalign?
The braces vs Invisalign battle will ultimately depend on your unique needs and preferences. Here are some final considerations to help you decide:
- If you value discretion: Aligners like Invisalign are the way to go. They’re virtually invisible and won’t affect your appearance during treatment.
- If you need to correct complex issues: Braces might be the better option, as they’re more effective for treating severe misalignments or bite problems.
- If you’re concerned about cost: Braces are generally more affordable, but it’s important to weigh this against the other factors that matter to you.
- If convenience is your top priority: Aligners offer more flexibility, but you’ll need to be diligent about wearing them for the recommended amount of time each day.
Choosing between aligners and braces can be challenging, but taking the time to research and understand the pros and cons will help you make an informed decision. Whether you opt for the subtlety and convenience of aligners or the tried-and-true effectiveness of braces, the most important thing is that you’re taking steps toward a healthier, more confident smile.
If you’re still unsure, discuss your options with Totally Smiles’ friendly dentists in your next check up and clean or book an appointment with our orthodontic professionals for personalised advice based on your specific needs and preferences.
Visit our braces and aligners pages for more information, or contact your local clinic today.