You are embarking on a difficult decision. The end results are clear, the goal is to get straighter teeth, but decisions, decisions, Invisalign or braces?
You’re already embarking on step one, which is doing research. By doing research you can bring back some questions to ask your orthodontist. This way you can be a bit more informed before you go in without any foundational knowledge or any areas of concern where issues could potentially arise. The internet is not going to have all the answers, which is why we are saying bring your concerns to a medical professional after you have done some research. That way you can get specific.
In the end, it is a personal choice. We can lay out some pros and cons of Invisalign versus braces so you can make an informed decision.
What are braces?
Braces are metal, ceramic, or lingual, attachments to the teeth. The braces we typically see are metal wires with rubber fastened to brackets to move your teeth to the ideal position.
What is Invisalign?
Clear, plastic aligners are customized for each patient with a personalized 3D scan. The aligners are customized along the straightening journey until the teeth are manipulated into the correct position.
Pros of Braces
Greater force: Traditional braces have more force than Invisalign which meanings they can give you a better result. Invisalign has its limitations of how much is can manipulate teeth within a period.
Faster results: Due to the greater force braces deliver over Invisalign you can expect that teeth are aligned faster, and gaps are closed are a faster rate. The effectiveness and speed of the braces differences from patient to patient by typically braces offer a quicker result.
Variety: Braces are not just what you see in the 80’s movies. There is a myriad of choices. You can decide between metal, ceramic, and lingual braces. This choice may make your treatment more discreet if that is what you desire. You can choose different colours and more.
Cons of Braces
Looks: If you’re going to self-conscious about the look of traditional braces, then this a factor worth considering.
Maintenance: Brushing and flossing are essential, and with braces the process can be a little tricker. You will need to follow specific instructions from your orthodontist to ensure you are taking care of your teeth. If not, you may end up with plaque build-up, staining, and possibly decay.
Diet: Your diet may be greatly affected by braces. You can break your braces if you consumer sticky or hard foods. You’ll need assistance from your orthodontist to fix a broken wire or to get some food out of your teeth if they are really lodged in there.
Pros of Invisalign
Looks: The top reason most patients choose Invisalign is because they are more discreet. This treatment option removes a lot of self-conscious feelings patients have. This applies to adults and teens.
Diet: Unlike braces, your diet shouldn’t be affected too much or at all. You can take you Invisalign out when you eat, so you don’t have to worry about breakage due to diet. Though you will have to wear your Invisalign for 20-22 hours a day.
Maintenance: Unlike braces, how you brush and floss your teeth will remain the same. You will not need to buy specialized floss or other things to get your teeth clean. You can pretty much do what you were doing prior to the treatment.
Cons of Invisalign
Discipline: You’ll need to remember to put your Invisalign back in your mouth after you eat. You’ll also need to remember to brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in. Otherwise, you may end up with stains on your aligners and your treatment may not be as effective if you don’t dislodge any food particles stuck between your teeth. The removability of Invisalign is great but you must remember to keep them in your mouth for 20-22 hours a day. Also, since you can remove Invisalign, you may be tempted to take them out when you’re heading out on the town. Which again, means you’ll need to remember to put them back in your mouth.
Cost: This is only here because it is brough up so often. The cost between Invisalign and braces is similar due to the advances in 3D technology. In fact, braces can be the pricier option depending on what your treatment entails.
Conclusion
The final decision is yours to make. We hope these pros and cons gave you some insights and helps you make a more informed decision. If you have any questions or concern, please give our team a call at (905) 634-9115.