Over your lifetime, you’ll likely be faced with many important decisions: surf or turf, car or truck, and in some cases, braces or Invisalign. But while many choices are no-brainers, it can often be difficult to decide which is the best way to straighten your smile. Here are some key differences between these two orthodontic options to help you determine which method is right for you!
Invisalign vs. Braces: Discretion Advised
One of the main reasons patients love Invisalign is their discreet appearance. Because your trays are transparent, they are much less obvious than braces, making them ideal for patients who want to maintain a professional appearance or who don’t want to draw attention to their mouth during treatment.
Invisalign vs. Braces: Cleaning Cues
Another way Invisalign often has braces beat is the ease of cleaning your aligners. Because trays are smooth plastic that is removed for meals and any beverages besides water, they naturally stay cleaner than braces. They’re also easier to care for and can be kept looking great by simply brushing with a soft-bristled brush and mild hand soap. Be aware, however, that you must brush and floss every time you eat before you put them back on.
Conversely, though braces may be more difficult to keep clean than Invisalign, you do not need to brush each time you eat or drink unless you want to (though given the nature of how food sticks to braces, you’ll probably want to clean them after each meal anyway).
Invisalign vs. Braces: Dietary Decisions
If the thought of having to temporarily give up your favorite foods during your orthodontic treatment is too much to bear, Invisalign may be a great choice for you. That’s because with aligners, you won’t need to give up anything, no matter how sticky, chewy, or crunchy. As long as you brush and floss your teeth after each meal or non-water beverage, your dietary options are endless!
Invisalign vs. Braces: Comfort and Joy
Because there are no wires or brackets potentially poking your soft tissues, Invisalign is often considered much more comfortable than traditional braces. In fact, most people only experience soreness on the first day or so after switching to their next set of trays. With braces, discomfort from new wires can last for days or longer, and jutting equipment can cause irritation that may require dental wax or a return visit to your dentist for adjustments.
Invisalign vs. Braces: Fast and Fun
Finally, the average Invisalign treatment is between nine and eighteen months, while most traditional braces treatments can take between 18 to 24 months. If you’re looking to complete your treatment faster, Invisalign is often “clearly” the better option!
Remember, Invisalign treatment is an excellent choice for patients who want a more discreet, comfortable, and faster treatment; however, not all smiles will qualify. Though Invisalign can correct a variety of bite issues, in some cases braces may still be a better option. To learn more about which method is best for you, speak to your dentist today.
About Our Practice
At South Jersey Center for Dental Medicine, Dr. Vidya and Dr. Sandberg are proud to offer a wide range of dental treatments to leave you smiling! If you’d like to straighten your bite faster and more comfortably than with traditional braces, you may be an excellent candidate for Invisalign. To learn more about your orthodontic options, please visit our website to schedule a consultation, or call us today at 856-596-4333.