Comparison Between Invisalign® and Traditional Braces

Do you dislike the arrangement of your teeth? Dental misalignment is a problem that the majority of the world’s population face. It affects children and adults alike. Fortunately, there are solutions in dentistry that allow patients to achieve the kinds of smiles they desire.

Orthodontic dentistry exists to provide solutions to all patients, regardless of age. Usually, dental realignment procedures are more effective for children and teenagers, even though it works for adults too.

What Are Teeth Aligners?

They are oral appliances used in orthodontic dentistry. Their primary role is to reposition teeth that are ill-positioned in the jaw. The teeth aligners work by applying consistent controlled pressure on teeth to cause a shifting. This process happens gradually over an extended period. Since orthodontics focuses on different kinds of alignment of teeth, the types of teeth aligners used also vary.

What Are Traditional Braces?

They are teeth aligners that have been used over the years to straighten teeth. They feature metal brackets and wires to hold them in place. Metal braces have been very common in pediatric orthodontics, although adults benefit from them too. Traditional metal braces have been proven effective for correcting all types of misalignment, whether simple or complex.

What Are Invisalign® Braces?

They are teeth aligners usually used as alternatives to traditional metal braces. Teeth straightening Invisalign braces do not have metal brackets or wires to straighten teeth. Instead, they are made in a tray-like form, with a transparent, plastic-like material. The aligners are molded to each person’s teeth for perfect teeth. They are very effective for correcting mild and moderate cases of dental misalignment.

Major Differences Between Metal Braces and Invisalign Braces

1. Material – they feature different types of materials. Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires, while Invisalign braces use plastic-like materials.
2. Color – metal braces typically take after the color of the metal used. Given as most metals have a silver-like appearance, traditional braces appear the same when placed over teeth. Some metal braces, however, can have different colors for the sake of aesthetics, especially for children. On the other hand, Invisalign braces have no color. The transparency of the plastic material used to make them allows them to be clear when placed over teeth. It is the reason why they are also called invisible or clear teeth aligners.
3. Removability – once your dentist installs traditional braces on your teeth, you will only take them off when he/she removes them. This is usually once your treatment is complete. With invisible aligners, however, the case is different. They are removable, allowing you the option to remove them every time you want to eat. You can remove them without necessarily soliciting the help of your dentist. However, there is a catch to it. While the clear aligners are removable, you must have them on for up to 20 or 22 hours every day. This allows them to constantly apply the necessary pressure on teeth to shift them.

Important Factors to Consider When Choosing Braces

1. Comfort – from many patient reviews, it is ascertained that invisible braces are more comfortable than traditional metal braces. This has to do with the material used and how soft it is to the gum tissue and the mouth overall.
2. Ease of maintenance – given that clear aligners are removable, they are easy to maintain. They also allow you to properly brush and floss your teeth every day. With metal braces, the case is different. Since they are attached to your teeth, you can only clean around the metal brackets and wires.
3. Cost – if you are working with a strict budget, you may need to learn more about traditional braces over the invisible ones as they are cheaper.
4. Cosmetic benefit – patients highly concerned about their cosmetic appearance tend to choose invisible teeth braces. Since they are transparent, they allow you to flaunt your smile even while undergoing treatment.

Which Is Best for You?

Based on the identifiable benefits of Invisalign in Rutherford, one would understand why many patients prefer clear aligners over traditional ones. However, it boils down to personal preferences and dental goals that you have. Besides, clear teeth aligners are not for everyone. If you have a complex case of malocclusion, your dentist may advise you to get traditional metal braces over the invisible oral aligners. You may also want to consider other factors like budget based on your dental insurance coverage, as well as your commitment to keeping the clear aligners in your mouth for the required periods.