Braces vs. Invisalign
One of the most common questions we get asked is, "Should I get braces or Invisalign?" Hopefully we can address some of the concerns and questions you may have with this page.
Should I Get Braces or Invisalign?
Let’s discuss some of the differences between straightening your teeth with traditional braces or clear Invisalign aligners. As with anything in life, there are pros and cons with both options. The good news is that both Invisalign and braces are great at aligning your teeth and correcting your bite problems.
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Tell Me Some General Information About Braces and Invisalign
Well, braces are glued to your teeth and an archwire is placed through them. After that, those braces won’t go anywhere! You won’t have to worry about being compliant because you will not be able to remove your braces (even if you want to!). With Invisalign, you will receive 4-6 aligners at adjustment appointments, and you will need to wear your aligners for 22 hours a day. Slow incremental tooth movements are built into each aligner and that is how your teeth get straight.
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Does One Take Longer?
Traditionally, Invisalign has taken longer than braces, but NOW treatment time is about the same between braces and Invisalign!
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How Often Do I Need to Come in for Appointments?
Our standard 6 week adjustment interval is the same for both braces and Invisalign.
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Are They Both Painful?
When you move a tooth, you will experience some dull pain. This happens with braces as well as with Invisalign. The teeth don’t know how they are being moved... whether it is by braces and wires or by plastic. So, the subtle pain with tooth movement is about the same with both treatments. On a side note, Invisalign patients will not experience any irritation from metal braces or pokey wires.
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Which One Will Look Better?
Well, it depends. If you love the idea of fun colored ties around your braces, then braces is what you are looking for. And, we offer clear braces for a more esthetic option. Generally, the advantage goes to Invisalign in the looks category. The Invisalign aligners are hardly noticeable and do not affect speech.
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How Do They Compare in Cost?
Typically, Invisalign is slightly more expensive than braces. This makes sense because the cost for the fabrication of the Invisalign is significantly more expensive than the cost of the braces.
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Which Treatment Requires More Self-Discipline?
Braces require very little when it comes to compliance besides the extra brushing around those brackets and wires. However, with Invisalign, you will be responsible for wearing them as much as possible and switching to the next aligner at the end of each week. This may be tricky because you will need to remove the aligners to eat and brush, and you must remember to put them back in. The aim is to wear your Invisalign aligners for at least 22 hours a day. If they are worn less than that, they won’t straighten your teeth effectively.
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Which One Will Give Me the Better End Result?
Years ago, braces were the gold standard when it comes to overall treatment results. However, Invisalign is an innovative company that is constantly improving its product and treatment. For most cases, Invisalign will render as excellent a result as braces. Some cases and certain movements are still harder with Invisalign treatment. The decision on whether Invisalign treatment is the right option will be made with the patient and Dr. Eric at the new patient exam appointment.
