Invisalign® vs. Braces: Which One Suits You Best?

Are you struggling with a crooked smile? Don’t worry! You are in good company. Millions of people globally are living with orthodontic issues. Some have resolved to live with these dental issues, even though there are a plethora of options that can straighten teeth.

Orthodontic treatment is often assumed to be too expensive and, therefore, out of reach. Also, traditional metal braces weren’t aesthetically pleasing to most adults and seemed more suitable for children.

However, we cannot downplay the significant strides that we have made in dental technology. Now, teeth straightening is within reach and more comfortable. Metal braces are better than ever. And if you want to be discreet, there are invisible aligners, known as Invisalign® in Lexington, MA.

There isn’t a better time to look for our cosmetic dentist in Lexington, MA, than now. We can help you decide between Invisalign treatment and traditional braces. There are various differences like appearance, cost, and effectiveness, which you have to consider.

So, let’s simplify the matter.

Fast Facts About Invisalign and Braces

Invisalign was first introduced into the market in early 2000. They were designed to be sleek and discreet and still able to straighten the teeth. These teeth aligners operate under the same principle as the traditional braces in that they gently apply pressure to the teeth. Since they fit snugly, they gradually shift the teeth to the desired position after some time.

The invisible aligners work by utilizing trays that are switched after every two weeks.

Braces have come a long way, and they are more colorful, and others even use tooth-colored ceramics. Braces have metal brackets, which are fixed to your teeth and connected by wires and tiny rubber bands. Their lack of aesthetic appeal deterred many adults from pursuing orthodontic treatment.

What Issues Do Invisalign and Braces Rectify?

Basically, if you have any alignment issues, you can reap the benefits of using braces or Invisalign treatment. Some of the orthodontic issues include:

• Crowded teeth
• Crooked teeth
• Crossbites
• Underbites
• Overbites
• Poor spacing
• Excess overjet

Even though having orthodontic issues can affect your looks, these issues can affect your oral health and even lead to severe health issues.

Which Option Works Best for You?

What we can all agree on is that Invisalign and braces will straighten your teeth. However, there are clear cut differences that you will need to put into consideration:

• Time of Treatment

Braces are fixed and irremovable. You will need to wear them all day, every day, for approximately two years, depending on your needs. With Invisalign treatment, you have the option of removing the braces for a maximum of 2 hours each day.

For them to work best, you need to wear them at least for 22 hours each day for about six to eighteen months, depending on your needs.

• Maintenance

To keep your braces clean, you will need to brush them regularly with the aid of a water pick. The process is a bit taxing for most people.

With Invisalign, you will need to use an Invisalign cleaning system to ensure that plaque does not form on them.

• Follow-up Visits

When you have braces, you will have to see our family dentist once a month to check the progress.

Invisalign comes with trays that you change every two weeks. Our cosmetic dentist in Lexington, MA, will give you enough trays to last you at least six weeks. You will see our family dentist every six weeks.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Braces and Invisalign?

Pros and Cons of Invisalign

• Pros
• You can eat what you want since they are removable.
• They are easier to clean and maintain since there is no issue of food getting stuck between braces
• You will not experience discomfort from wires or brackets
• Cons
• You need to remove them before eating or drinking anything but water
• You must brush your teeth after every meal to prevent staining the clear aligners

Pros and Cons of Braces

• Pros
• Braces are ideal for more intricate issues
• They are permanently fixed so you cannot be tempted to avoid wearing them on certain days or occasions
• Only regular cleaning is necessary; you do not need extra cleaning steps
• Cons
• You can experience pain or discomfort from the brackets moving your teeth
• Some tooth discoloration might happen
• At times, while eating sticky foods or hard foods, you may experience some difficulty

What’s the Verdict?

It’s a tight race, and your choice will be based on your individual needs and desires. If you are worried about appearances, then Invisalign would be ideal. However, Invisalign is not recommended for everyone.

For this reason, we are here for you. You can call our dentist at Lexington Dental Group to know which options suit your needs.