Invisalign Vs Braces: Which is Right for Me?

Whether you are an adult or a teenager, having a great smile is something that can give you confidence and make it easier to interact with the world around you. Teeth straightening techniques have come a long way in recent years, and there are now two main options for those looking for straighter teeth, so you may be wondering, Invisalign vs braces, which is for me? 

You should do plenty of research, ask any questions you may have, and, along with your orthodontist, then make the decision you are comfortable with. The choice you make will also depend on the particular orthodontic problem that you need to get corrected. Invisalign is not always the best choice for people with more severe cases of orthodontic issues. This is why it is so important to get the advice early on from an orthodontist you can trust.

Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so how do you choose between Invisalign or braces? Keep reading.

What is Invisalign, and How Does it Work?

Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners which fit neatly over your teeth. These trays are designed to move your teeth into alignment gradually over time. This treatment usually takes around one year, although this may vary depending on the severity of the misalignment.

What are the Benefits of Invisalign?

One of the main advantages of Invisalign is its discretion: as the trays are virtually invisible, many people choose Invisalign in order to maintain their appearance during treatment. Invisalign is also more comfortable than braces, as no metal brackets and wires irritate your mouth. Finally, Invisalign aligners are removable, so it is easy to eat and brush your teeth as normal.

Invisalign Looks Better

One of the biggest advantages to Invisalign is that it is virtually invisible in most situations.You do not have to worry about feeling self-conscious for wearing them. You can also take them out in any public situation (though your orthodontist will tell you that the more you wear them, the faster the treatment works).

It is Easier to Brush Your Teeth

As mentioned above, since you can easily remove Invisalign, it makes it much easier to brush and floss your teeth. This makes it more likely that you will continue good oral hygiene during the treatment phase.

Eating Your Favorite Foods is Easier With Invisalign

Since you can remove Invisalign, you can continue eating all of your favorite foods during the treatment. We are often asked “do you have to wear Invisalign all the time?” In most cases, it is recommended that you wear your Invisalign for 22 hours a day, which gives you plenty of time to eat the meal of your choice (and brush afterwards, of course).

Less Uncomfortable to Wear

One of the first questions we normally get is “are braces or invisalign more painful?” While both can be, at times, moderately uncomfortable, most people experience less discomfort with Invisalign. Since the retainers are made of plastic, and can be removed, most patients find that they are less uncomfortable than metal braces.

Less Office Visits Required

Due to the Invisalign process, much of the work by the orthodontist is done before you ever put in your first retainer. Your retainers are all made using a 3-D scan of your mouth, and as your treatment progresses, you simply change retainers. Therefore, there is less need for frequent office visits unless you experience issues that you need assistance with.

What are Braces, and How Do They Work?

Braces use metal or ceramic brackets which are attached to the teeth. These brackets are connected with a wire, which is adjusted over time in order to move the teeth into alignment. 

Depending on the severity of the misalignment, this process can take anywhere from one year to several years to complete. Braces require more maintenance than Invisalign—regular check-ups at your orthodontist and adjustments will be necessary throughout treatment. However, braces may be better suited for those with severely misaligned teeth who need more aggressive movement to achieve the desired effects.

The Benefits of Braces

The main benefit of braces is that they can provide more control over the movements of your teeth, which can be useful for those with severely misaligned teeth. The metal or ceramic brackets also make it easier to clean around the teeth and remove plaque build-up, although this will still require regular brushing and flossing. Braces are also less expensive than Invisalign in some cases.

Braces Are Suitable for All Treatments

Especially for more severe cases, braces are much better at providing a satisfactory outcome. Since braces use anchors and wires to pull teeth into alignment, they can work much more effectively in moving teeth into position.

Choose Your Type of Braces

There are now more options than the traditional style of braces offered by most orthodontists. Patients can choose ceramic braces in most cases if they feel they might be self-conscious about the traditional metal braces look.

Treatment Time Can Be Faster

Which is faster, braces or Invisalign? One thing to consider is that generally, straightening teeth and closing gaps can be done faster with braces vs Invisalign treatments. If you want to get your treatment results done as soon as possible, braces may be the choice for you. Keep in mind also that the skill of the orthodontist will affect the treatment time as well.

Invisalign or Braces: Which is Right for Me?

The decision between Invisalign or braces really depends on your individual needs and goals. Consider the severity of your misalignment, as well as your lifestyle and preferences, when making this decision. Talk to an orthodontist about both treatments in order to make an informed decision that is best suited to you. They will be able to provide advice and guidance on whether Invisalign or braces will be most beneficial in achieving the results you are striving for.

Conclusion: Invisalign or braces?

Regardless of which treatment you choose, it’s important to remember that Invisalign or braces have their benefits, so either one can help you get a beautiful smile! And again, please speak with your orthodontist to get personalized advice that is tailored to your individual needs. Good luck on your journey to a straighter smile!

If you’re in the Stafford, VA, area, no need to look any further for the best orthodontist in town. Dr. James Lupi is a top orthodontist and Diamond Invisalign provider. When you’re ready, schedule your smile assessment here or give us a call at (540) 720-4178.