Braces vs Invisalign

Orthodontic treatments that involve either Invisalign or traditional braces are just a few of many methods used to straighten teeth. Teeth are straightened for multiple reasons, such as moving them to a better position, promoting good function, and enhancing their appearance. Traditional braces typically utilize metal wires with the goal of achieving optimal tooth position. Invisalign, on the other hand, makes use of clear plastic customized trays to straighten teeth discreetly.

Invisalign and braces don’t just straighten out teeth, they also help correct bite problems that generally call for special diagnosis combined with treatment. While both braces and Invisalign are effective, there are pros and cons to both when determining which one is best for you.

Dental Braces Benefits

Dental braces have brackets that run along a metal wire. The metal braces are attached to your teeth and manipulated in small increments by our medical team each visit. The brackets and wire that form the braces are closely pressed against the teeth of the patient, working together to straighten teeth. Dental braces have the ability to correct even the most complex dental issues when it comes to aligning teeth.

Invisalign Benefits

Invisalign is an uncomplicated, straightforward approach for shifting the teeth over time. Your orthodontist will provide you with a customized, clear set of computer-generated trays that are typically worn 24/7 with change-outs occurring every few weeks. Certain trays can last as long as six months to a year. However, this method will require some kind of maintenance in order to prevent the teeth from moving back.

One of the key advantages of Invisalign trays is that they’re virtually invisible. Some people, especially older individuals, sometimes don’t want other people to know they’re even wearing braces, which makes Invisalign the ideal orthodontic device to wear in diverse social situations and still feel comfortable. Invisalign wearers claim that the trays are comfortable to wear and don’t affect their overall speech as well. Invisalign treatment is a better approach if the patient is more concerned about aesthetics rather than the functionality of improving their teeth. For this reason, patients with complex problems often prefer traditional braces to Invisalign.

Traditional Dental Braces are Better Suited for More Difficult Cases

There is a variety of reasons why a person might choose conventional dental braces over Invisalign. Braces are affixed to the front surface of the teeth and primarily consist of either resin brackets or colored metal. In addition, braces come with a metal wire that runs through the bracket and works to shift the teeth in a different position. Another advantage of traditional dental braces versus Invisalign is that they’re fixed and cannot be lost. Any damage that occurs to traditional braces is easily fixed, whereas a new Invisalign tray may need to be made if damage is caused, setting back treatment time.

Invisalign treatment is very convenient when it comes to aesthetics and less complicated dental issues, whereas traditional dental braces are more functional in nature and work effectively for addressing any complex issues with teeth. Braces also work much faster at aligning teeth and closing gaps than Invisalign.

At Grace and Bowman Orthodontics, our medical team will help you decide which treatment is better based on your needs, the severity of your case, and how you feel about wearing braces in general. We can provide a full oral assessment and recommend the most appropriate treatment options for your needs. Contact Grace and Bowman Orthodontics today to schedule your consultation.

 

 

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