Invisalign treatment has many advantages, that’s why it’s become such a popular treatment option for people looking to transform their smiles all over the world. Invisalign is the discreet and comfortable alternative to braces that uses aligners to straighten your teeth. Both Braces and Invisalign are effective methods for straightening your teeth and there are benefits of both treatments. If you’re wondering if Invisalign is the best option for you, explore our comparison below to find out more.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign works to straighten your teeth by using a series of clear, comfortable and removable aligners which move your teeth gradually into the desired position. Each aligner is custom made to suit your specific needs. Unlike braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for adults and teens who want a more discreet option to straighten their teeth.
Invisalign aligners are removable, which means you can take them out while eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth. Invisalign uses advanced 3D software, to allow you to see the end results of treatment before you even start and is as effective as traditional braces for treating a wide variety of orthodontic issues.
What Are Braces?
Braces have been around for thousands of years. They are used to correct problems with your teeth and help improve overall oral health.
Braces have evolved dramatically since they were first invented however they’ve always been an effective way to correct crooked and crowded teeth and help people get a healthier, straighter smile. Braces can help with a variety of oral health problems including crooked teeth, gaps in the teeth, overbites, underbites and misaligned jaws.
Pros and Cons of Invisalign
Pros:
- Invisalign aligners are almost invisible—most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them!
- They’re removable; you take them out to eat and drink.
- Invisalign is comfortable and less likely to cause irritation than braces.
- Invisalign treatment normally requires fewer visits to your dentist or orthodontist.
Cons:
- Invisalign treatment requires discipline, as it needs to be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day.
- Not always suitable for severe orthodontic issues.
Pros and Cons of Braces
Pros:
- Braces are great for treating complex orthodontic issues such as difficult bite problems or severe crowding.
- Ideal for younger patients and teenagers, as braces don’t require as much compliance.
- No removable parts.
Cons:
- Braces are noticeable due to the brackets and wires.
- They’re not as comfortable.
- It’s more difficult to brush and floss with braces.
- Eating is more difficult with braces, and you need to avoid some foods.
- Braces are noticeable due to the brackets and wires.
- They’re not as comfortable.
- It’s more difficult to brush and floss with braces.
- Eating is more difficult with braces, and you need to avoid some foods.
Invisalign vs. Braces: Comparison Factors
Invisalign |
Braces |
|
Clear and discreet |
Metal brackets and wires |
|
Comfortable smooth design |
Can cause irritation or discomfort |
|
Need to remove to eat, drink and clean |
Fixed on permanently until the end of your treatment |
|
Treatment length generally from 6 to 24 months |
Treatment length generally between 1 to 3 years |
|
May not be a good treatment option for treating severe problems |
Can help treat a range of problems including more complex issues |
Who Should Choose Invisalign and Who Should Choose Braces?
Invisalign is a good option if you’re looking for a discreet treatment option that provides more comfort while addressing mild to moderate orthodontic concerns. Invisalign is a flexible treatment option that fits well into a busy lifestyle. Most adult patients prefer Invisalign since it’s almost invisible and can be difficult for people to tell that you’re wearing Invisalign aligners.
Braces is the most popular option for children and teenage patients as it requites less compliance - you don’t need to worry about removing them to eat and drink. Braces are normally recommended over Invisalign if you have more complex or severe orthodontic issues such as bite problems or difficult crowding.
FAQs Section
Which is more effective, braces or Invisalign?
Invisalign and braces are both effective methods for straightening your teeth. They each have their unique benefits—Invisalign is more comfortable, discreet, and can offer a shorter treatment length than braces. However, for more complex dental issues, braces are often more effective than Invisalign.
What are the cons of having Invisalign?
There are more pros than cons to Invisalign treatment. The main cons are that Invisalign requires compliance with your treatment plan, as aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. Aligners must also be cleaned regularly, and Invisalign is not always suitable for more severe orthodontic problems.
Do braces or Invisalign last longer?
Depending on your treatment plan and type, Invisalign treatment can take from 6 to 24 months. Braces usually require a longer treatment period, typically between 1 to 3 years. Your treatment length with both options depends on your individual circumstances. We recommend discussing this with your orthodontist or dentist during your consultation appointment.
Is Invisalign cheaper than braces?
Invisalign is not necessarily cheaper than braces. The cost of Invisalign treatment depends on your specific treatment plan and individual requirements. Some Invisalign types, such as Invisalign Lite or Express, can be less expensive than braces. However, full Invisalign treatment pricing is generally similar to full braces treatment.
Should I get braces or Invisalign?
For more complex alignment and bite issues, braces may be the best treatment option for you. If you're looking for a more comfortable and discreet treatment, Invisalign could be a better fit. We recommend discussing your options with an orthodontist to determine the best treatment for your individual needs.
Which One Is Right for You?
It can be difficult to determine whether Invisalign or Braces would be the best treatment option for straightening your teeth. The decision should be made based on your unique requirements, which your orthodontist will be able to assist you with. If you’re after a virtually invisible and more comfortable treatment option than Invisalign would be a great option. If you have a more severe orthodontic issue than Braces would be more suitable for you.
We recommend talking to an orthodontist to get guidance on the best treatment option for you.
Remember, consulting with an orthodontist is the best way to determine which option will give you the best results.
Book a consultation with Lumino today to determine whether Invisalign or braces is the best option for you!