Is Invisalign Better Than Braces?

When it comes to straightening teeth, patients have more options than ever before. Traditional braces may still be the most common treatment, but clear aligners, like Invisalign, are getting more popular each year. So the question is, which one is better?

The Pros and Cons of Braces

Braces are still the most widely used treatment, and with good reason. The biggest benefit of using braces to improve your smile is that they can fix any orthodontic issue. Whether you have numerous crooked teeth, large gaps, or severe crowding, braces can give you the straighter, healthier smile you’ve always wanted. Another advantage of having braces, which is particularly important for younger patients, is  they are permanently attached to your teeth, so you cannot lose or forget to wear them.

Because they are made of brackets and wires, braces can be quite visible, and they can be damaged by eating the wrong foods. The visibility issue can be avoided to a certain extent by opting for ceramic braces, which have clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend in with your teeth. As for damaging them, patients have to commit to avoiding sticky or crunchy foods during their treatment if they don’t want to deal with broken brackets or wires and potential delays in treatment. Braces can also make brushing and flossing a little harder, especially when you first get them, but there are tools you can use to make the process easier.

The Pros and Cons of Invisalign

Although considered a relative newcomer to orthodontics, Invisalign has been used to treat patients for over two decades. Invisalign eliminates the disadvantages of having braces by using removable plastic aligners instead of brackets and wires. Being able to remove your aligners means teeth are easy to clean and there aren’t any food restrictions. The clear aligners are also almost invisible, and some patients find them more comfortable than braces.

There are still some cons to having Invisalign. Because the aligners can be removed, it is up to the patient to commit to wearing them enough for the treatment to be effective. Aligners need to be worn at least 22 hours each day or treatment may be delayed. Aligners can also be lost or damaged when they are taken out during meals or while brushing and flossing. This can be avoided for the most part by storing them in a case when they are not being worn and keeping them away from extreme heat, like a closed car on a summer day in Florida.

When Invisalign was first introduced, it was not able to fix tough orthodontic issues such as severe crowding or a misaligned bite. With the addition of buttons and attachments, Invisalign can now fix more complex problems, but in some cases, braces are still a better option.

Is Invisalign Better Than Braces?

So, is Invisalign better than braces? The answer is, “It depends.” Are you or your teen disciplined enough to wear aligners that are not attached to your teeth? Are you self-conscious and want a discreet treatment? Are you willing to give up certain foods to get an improved smile? In addition to answering these questions, the best way to find out is to schedule an exam with an orthodontist who can diagnose the issues that need correcting and discuss which treatment would be best.