Invisalign® Vs. Traditional Braces: What Suits Your Smile?
Things to Consider
We’ll break down the differences between the two options so you have a better idea of which one will work best for you and help you achieve your goals.Appearance
One of the most significant differences between Invisalign and traditional braces is how they look.- Invisalign: Invisalign is made from a clear, flexible, medical-grade plastic, allowing it to appear virtually invisible.
- Traditional Braces: Braces consist of metal brackets and wires that are more noticeable. However, modern braces offer more subtle options, such as tooth-coloured or clear brackets, but they are still more visible than Invisalign aligners.
Comfort
Comfort plays a big role in orthodontic treatment and the experiences between these two methods can vary.- Invisalign: The smooth plastic aligners are custom-made for your teeth, so there are no sharp edges or protruding parts that might irritate your mouth. While some discomfort is expected when switching to a new aligner (due to the movement of teeth), many patients find Invisalign to be more comfortable overall.
- Traditional Braces: The metal brackets and wires can sometimes cause irritation to the inner cheeks and lips or even cause scarring. Adjustments to the wires may cause soreness after tightening, but this discomfort typically fades after a few days.
Convenience
Both options require commitment, but Invisalign offers more flexibility.- Invisalign: One of Invisalign's biggest advantages is that the aligners are removable. This means you can take them out while eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. However, for the treatment to be effective, you need to wear the aligners for up to 22 hours per day. The freedom to remove them also requires discipline to avoid delaying progress.
- Traditional Braces: Braces are fixed to your teeth, meaning they can't be removed until the end of the treatment. This can make eating certain foods more challenging. Maintaining oral hygiene also requires extra care to ensure food particles don’t get trapped around the brackets. However, you don’t have to worry about losing them or forgetting to put them in!
Effectiveness & Treatment Time
Both Invisalign and traditional braces are effective, but their approach to correcting orthodontic issues differs slightly.- Invisalign: Ideal for mild to moderate alignment issues, Invisalign can correct overcrowding, gaps, and some bite problems. For more complex cases, Invisalign may take longer or may not be the best option. On average, Invisalign treatment takes around 12-18 months.
- Traditional Braces: Braces can treat a wider range of complex dental issues, including severe misalignment, rotated teeth, and significant bite problems. Depending on the complexity of the case, treatment with traditional braces can take anywhere from 18 months to 3 years.
Ease of Maintenance
Taking care of your teeth during orthodontic treatment is important to ensure your smile not only looks great but also remains healthy.- Invisalign: Aligners need to be cleaned regularly to prevent staining and odour. It’s also recommended to brush your teeth after each meal before putting the aligners back in to prevent staining.
- Traditional Braces: Oral hygiene can be more challenging with braces as food can get stuck in the brackets and wires. Brushing and flossing take longer, and you may need special tools like a water flosser or interdental brushes to clean between the brackets.
Follow-Up Visits
Both treatments require regular follow-up visits, but the frequency and type of adjustments vary.- Invisalign: Typically, patients need to visit their orthodontist every 6 - 8 weeks to receive new sets of aligners and check progress. There are no wire adjustments, making visits quicker and less invasive.
- Traditional Braces: You will need to visit your orthodontist approximately every 4-6 weeks for adjustments. These visits involve tightening the wires and making any necessary changes to the brackets.
Both Options are Effective & Have Their Pros & Cons
When deciding between Invisalign and traditional braces, consider your lifestyle and the severity of your dental issues. Invisalign offers a more discreet, flexible, and comfortable option for mild to moderate orthodontic issues, while traditional braces are more effective for complex cases. Ultimately, your orthodontist and dentist can help guide you toward the treatment that will give you the best results. Tooth Buds Dentistry in Orangeville is a provider of Invisalign, come in for a consultation and start your journey to a straighter smile!
Dr. Prabhdeep Kaur, a General Dentist, has been enriching the field of dentistry with her expertise for over 13 years, having obtained her license in Canada in 2015. A holder of a BDS degree, Dr. Kaur’s proficiency spans a wide array of dental services, including General and Cosmetic Dentistry, Wisdom Teeth Extractions, Invisalign, and more. Her commitment to her craft is further evidenced by her memberships in prestigious organizations like the Ontario Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario.
Renowned for her patient-focused approach, Dr. Kaur emphasizes the importance of listening and customizing treatments to meet individual needs, viewing dentistry not only as a science but also as an art form dedicated to enhancing and restoring smiles. Her dedication to ongoing education ensures she remains at the cutting edge of dental advancements.
Outside her professional life, Dr. Kaur enjoys family time, travel, and cinema, adding a relatable and approachable dimension to her persona. She is passionate about delivering professional and quality dental care, driven by her desire to connect with people and address their dental needs effectively.
Dr. Kaur’s journey in dentistry serves as an inspiration for aspiring dental professionals, advocating determination, motivation, and enjoyment in their work. Follow her journey and professional updates on Instagram @drprabh84, where she continues to inspire both her patients and peers in the dental community.
