Invisalign vs. Braces: How Do They Compare, Pros and Cons
When you want to straighten your teeth, it can be hard to choose which is suitable between Invisalign and braces. Both of these orthodontic treatments work to reposition the teeth and correct misalignment. However, they have a few differences between them, and it important to know about them before you choose either traditional braces or Invisalign near you.
1. Attachment or Design
The Invisalign aligners are made of a thermoplastic material that can be easily customized to fit your teeth and gums. They are removable and invisible braces that can easily adapt to your lifestyle.
The metal braces, on the other hand, are made of metal wires that are attached to the teeth. Since they are permanent, the braces are fixed at the dental office. The wires can be a bit inconvenient because they are visible.
2. Treatment Process
These invisible and traditional braces follow a different treatment process. Getting Invisalign braces involves three phases, and the process begins with a 3D scan. The dentist will take a 3D digital scan of your jaw and teeth to create the set of aligners you need. The digital scan also helps the dentist to determine the pressure needs, and the time it will take to move the teeth.
You will receive a set of aligners, and you are to wear them for 22 hours, 14 days a set. The treatment is often done at home, but you will need to visit the dentist every couple of weeks to have your progress assessed.
For the traditional braces, the process will begin with consultation and assessment. Our dentist in New Westminster will then take a cast of your teeth to create the first mockup of the braces. The teeth are conditioned to cement the brackets, and then the wires are fixed.
Invisalign braces take around 6 to 18 months to correct your teeth, while it can take up to 24 months to have the traditional braces taken out. After the completion of both treatments, the dentist will give you a retainer to hold the teeth in position.
3. Maintenance
Maintaining the Invisalign aligners is easier than the traditional braces as they are removable. You are advised to remove the aligners when eating, drinking, or brushing. This makes it hard for the aligners to accumulate any plaques or stains.
Since the metal braces are fixed on the teeth, it can be hard to clean them properly. This means that they can stain and increase the risk of decay.
Pros and Cons of Invisalign
Invisalign braces come with benefits and some disadvantages.
Pros
- Looks better
The clear material used to make the aligners takes on the color of the teeth, and this makes them invisible, meaning they won’t be noticeable.
- Easy to maintain and convenient
The aligners do not change your lifestyle or diet. You can eat what you want, as long as you remove them before doing so.
The material used is also gentle on the gums, meaning you will not have any discomfort when using them.
Cons
- Requires high standards of discipline
For the Invisalign treatment to be successful, you need to have high standards of hygiene and discipline. That is probably the reason why the aligners are ideal for adults and teenagers.
- Effectiveness
These invisible aligners are not ideal for most orthodontic problems. Our dentist in V3M 5T5 can recommend Invisalign if you have moderate dental alignment problems. For severe malocclusion, the traditional braces are the most ideal.
Pros and Cons of Braces
Pros
- Ideal for multiple bite problems
You can get the traditional braces regardless of the severity of the problem you have. The dentist will fix the braces in a way that addresses the different bite problems.
- Different options
You can choose either the conventional braces that are fixed on the front part of the teeth or lingual. These are braces that are fixed on the inside part of the teeth.
Cons
- They have poor aesthetics
- It affects your diet as you will have to avoid sticky and chewy foods that can stick on the wires.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Asante Dental Centre in New Westminster for more information about Invisalign and braces.