Invisalign Vs Braces: Which Is The Right Choice?

This article will lay out the pros and cons of braces and Invisalign to help make an informed decision about how you wish to go about straightening your teeth.

The Difference Between Braces And Invisalign

Before looking at the pros and cons of braces and Invisalign, it is important to understand the difference between the two. Braces are traditionally made out of metal brackets that are glued onto the surface of each tooth connected by a metal wire. The progressive tightening of the wires and the addition of elastic bands help manipulate your teeth into their correct positioning.

Invisalign uses clear, plastic aligners that fit over all of your teeth that can be removed when you are eating. The aligners are customized to each patient and are made to slowly move teeth into their correct position over time. Over the course of Invisalign treatment, patients are given new aligners to continuously move their teeth into their correct position after each stage of movement.

Pros And Cons Of Braces

The Pros:

Suitable For All Types Of Misalignment

Braces can treat a variety of complex issues regarding misaligned teeth as well as jaw problems that require stronger force to achieve with alignment. Invisalign is not suitable for treating complex dental concerns such as overlapping teeth or rotated teeth unlike braces. Braces can correct these issues more accurately and in less time when compared to Invisalign.

More Likely To Achieve A Perfect Result

Braces have more force to move teeth into the desired position. Invisalign is limited in moving teeth into their exact correct position since they cannot put as much force on the teeth as braces.

Faster Results

Generally, braces are faster at achieving results. Speed of treatment can be a big factor as many people wish to have their orthodontic treatment completed as fast as possible.

Cons Of Braces

Aesthetics

One of the downfalls of braces is the aesthetics. Many people do not like the look of traditional braces and can be conscious about their appearance in social settings.

Food Restrictions

Extra care must be taken when it comes to food with braces. That means avoiding hard, sticky foods that can cause the metal brackets or wires on your braces to break off. If you break your brackets and wires, this can prolong your treatment.

Regular Consultations With An Orthodontist

Regular visits to your orthodontist are required to check on the progress and have your braces adjusted. During these appointments you will have different wires put into place, tightened, or be given new elastic bands. These appointments typically cause some discomfort to your teeth as they need time to adjust to the new changes.

Pros And Cons Of Invisalign

The Pros:

The Aesthetics

Invisalign offers the benefit of being nearly invisible. This means that you can straighten your teeth and people may not even notice you have aligners in.

No Food Restrictions

Invisalign aligners can be taken out at your convenience whenever you need to eat. For best results, aligners only need to be worn 20-22 hours per day and offer the benefit of not restricting the types of foods you can eat.

Fewer Trips To The Dentist

Braces require regular adjustments whereas Invisalign does not. You are sent home with sets of aligners that are required to be changed on a weekly or bi-weekly basis depending on your dentists requirements. The packages come with easy to follow instructions to tell you when you are required to change them, therefore eliminating the need to visit your dentist regularly and you don’t need to see an orthodontist regularly either.

The Cons:

You Need To Be Disciplined

Being able to remove your aligners at your convenience can be both good and bad. If you are someone who will easily forget to place your aligners back in your mouth after every meal or wear them for at least 20-22 hours per day, then Invisalign may not be the right solution for you. Forgetting to wear your aligners may prolong the length of  your treatment or give you unsatisfactory results.

Limited Treatment Solutions

Invisalign will not be able to correct complex issues such as rotated or overlapped teeth. They may also not give you the perfect results that braces can offer since they do not put as much force on your teeth to move them. Invisalign may also take longer than braces to straighten your teeth.

Calgary Invisalign Treatments

Making the right choice between Invisalign and braces will ensure you get the best results in the shortest amount of time. Making your decision will be based on your dentist’s recommendations as well as your personal preferences. There is a lot to consider when you are weighing up the options of an orthodontic treatment. Talk to your dentist about your options to help you decide the best fit for you.

Dr. Korol Dental is a leading holistic and biocompatible dental practice in Calgary that offers Invisalign treatments, dental cleanings, emergency dentistry, and more. Dr. Korol has the experience and expertise to evaluate your teeth to help you make the best decision in regards to giving you the best results for aligning your teeth. To learn more about Invisalign treatments and to know if you are a good candidate, contact our clinic by calling 1-403-245-9099, or by filling out our online contact form.

FAQ

Q: How often should I visit the dentist for a dental cleaning?
A:  The Canadian Association of Dentistry recommends patients visit their dentist once every six months.

Q: How long do braces typically take to correct misaligned teeth?
A: This will depend on your condition but braces typically take 18 months to three years to correct dental problems.

Q: How long do Invisalign treatments usually take to correct misaligned teeth?
A: Again, this will largely depend on your individual condition but Invisalign typically corrects misaligned teeth in 1-2 years.