Braces VS Invisalign: Which One is Better For You?

When it comes to orthodontic problems, you have got plenty of options to choose from. However, the method you choose can significantly impact the result. This is the reason why you should do your research and make a well-informed decision for the same.

Regarding orthodontic problems, braces and Invisalign are quite common procedures that people go through to align their teeth. If you are deciding which one to choose, then you can refer to the guide given below. It will help you weigh down the pros and cons of both methods, which can help you make a decision.

How Do Braces Work?

Traditionally, braces were only composed of metal that dentists used to attach to the outside teeth. Now with advancement, there are two more options available:

• Ceramic Braces: These are transparent braces that are not easily detectable by people. They look far better as compared to the metal ones.
• Lingual Braces: Lingual braces are more of a technique of attaching them to the backside of the teeth. This way, no one will know that you have braces on.

Braces are painful to install, but once they are set, they give the best possible results. They are used so that your teeth can be manipulated to align with each other. Also, dentists use anesthesia to ease the pain and discomfort.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign is a tray that is composed of clear plastic aligners. The dentist customises the tray so that it fits perfectly in your mouth. All this is done with a 3D scan of your mouth. Afterwards, the aligners are made to manipulate and move the teeth to reach the desired position. You must wear it for around 22 hours daily to get the desired results. Results can greatly vary from person to person.

Pros & Cons

To know how comfortable braces vs Invisalign treatments are, you need to weigh down their pros and cons. Only then will you be able to decide what is best suited for your condition. It is also recommended to have proper knowledge from your dentist as well, as they will suggest what’s best for you. The pros and cons of braces and Invisalign are:

Pros And Cons Of Braces

Pros

Perfect Results

Braces are more effective than Invisalign. It is because the force used in braces is more. Also, you can’t take them off at your convenience, which means that you get the desired results fast.

Suitable For Everyone

Invisalign is not effective for anyone. With braces, it doesn’t matter what orthodontic problem you have. It will be solved. Whenever there is an extreme case, dentists prefer braces instead of Invisalign. 

Fast Results

One thing most orthodontic patients have in common is that they want results fast. Since braces use more force to manipulate the position of the teeth, it’s easier for them to achieve the results quickly. So, if you want that, then you should go for braces. They deliver faster and better results than Invisalign.

Variety To Choose From

Now there are not only traditional metal braces to choose from. You can also select the ones that are transparent, commonly known as ceramic, and the lingual ones that are attached behind the teeth. These braces are less noticeable as compared to metal ones.

Cons

Do Not Look Pleasing

The metal braces are quite noticeable and do not look pleasing. The ceramic ones are transparent, but they do give your mouth a slightly different look as if something is there in your mouth. Both these braces do not ok good. However, lingual ones are less noticeable.

Difficulty In Oral Cleaning

Braces make it quite difficult to clean the teeth and mouth thoroughly using a brush and floss. Also, because of braces, it becomes all the more important to wash your mouth and gently brush your teeth every time you eat something. Otherwise, tooth decay can happen.

Restriction On Some Food Items

Sticky foods special those that contain sugar, should be avoided if you have braces. It is because it hard enough to clean the mouth, and if there is a food stick in the teeth, then it will be even harder to get rid of it.

Regular Visits To The Dentist

Compared to Invisalign, you will have to visit dentists more frequently. He might suggest changing the setting of the braces to reposition the teeth perfectly.

Pros And Cons Of Invisalign

Pros

Looks Better

The main reason why most people prefer Invisalign is that they don’t look hideous. Sometimes people even can’t notice that there is something different with your teeth. So, if you are in a profession where you socialise a lot, then transparent Invisalign trays are the best option.

Easier For Oral Cleaning

You can take off the tray whenever you want. So it’s easier to clean your mouth, teeth and the tray easily.

You Can Take Off The Aligners While Eating

One of the major issues with braces is eating. You have to avoid certain foods, and you have to be careful while eating food. With Invisalign aligners, you can take them off whenever you eat and eat whatever you want. However, make sure to clean your teeth and the Invisalign tray before putting them on.

Comfortable To Wear

You have to wear Invisalign for 22 hours a day to achieve results. Whenever you feel discomfort, you can take them off. Also, it is not a painful method like braces. Thus, they are comfortable to wear.

Fewer Visits To The Dentist

Once your tray is set and works for your mouth, you do not have to visit the dentist frequently. A routine checkup to check the progress would be enough.

Cons

Taking The Aligner In And Out Can Be Tiring

Taking the aligner off and then again putting them on after eating could be hectic. Also, you must clean your teeth before putting them on.

Discipline Is Required To Wear Them 22 hours A Day.

If you are not a disciplined person, then this method will not work for you as it requires you to wear them for 22 hours a day.

It Is Not The Best Option For Complicated Cases

If your case is extreme, then Invisalign might not deliver the desired results.

Final Thoughts

So, these are the pros and cons of braces and Invisalign. It’s not easy to select the best procedure for you. It would be better to seek consultation from a professional first. Hopefully, this information helped you to make your decision.