Braces vs Invisalign

It’s extremely uncomfortable to have crooked teeth or an overbite, so you might be wondering about the best treatment options. If you’re trying to decide
between Invisalign and braces, we’re here to break down the differences.

The main difference between braces vs Invisalign is that braces are made of metal wires and brackets, while Invisalign is made of plastic or polyurethane resins. At Totalcare Dental and Dermal, we want you to choose the perfect orthodontic solution. Let’s weigh up Invisalign versus braces to help you make up your mind!

Key Takeaways

• Braces are for complex dental problems, while Invisalign works well for mild to moderate cases.
• Invisalign is more aesthetically pleasing than braces but requires more discipline for effective treatment.
• Braces are more affordable than Invisalign.
• Invisalign has no dietary restrictions and offers improved oral hygiene, whereas braces limit which foods you can eat and cannot be removed for teeth cleaning.

Understanding Orthodontic Treatments

Orthodontics covers the treatment of abnormalities in your teeth or jaw. The purpose of orthodontic treatment is to correctly align your teeth and restore your perfect smile. There are a variety of ways to do this, with braces and Invisalign being two of the most popular treatment options.

Overview of Braces

Traditional metal braces are one of the most common treatment methods for irregular teeth. They are made of brackets, wires, and bands. The brackets are attached to each tooth with an adhesive and are connected by wires. The wires are held in place with small elastic metal bands that wrap around your molars. There are various types of braces, including ceramic braces and lingual braces, both of which are less noticeable.

Braces slowly shift, straighten, and move your teeth into the right position with consistent pressure over time. The wires of your brackets must be regularly adjusted by your dentist or orthodontist.

Braces may take 18 to 36 months to straighten teeth, depending on how severe your case is. The average cost of braces is between $4,500 and $8,000, but many private dental insurance plans can help you cover the cost. Let’s get into the pros and cons of braces.

Pros of Braces

• Complex Problems: Braces are better for complicated issues. If you have extreme crowding, overbites, or underbites, braces use enough force to straighten your teeth.
• Consistent Treatment: Braces are the better option in terms of consistency. Braces move the teeth while staying fixed in place. If you’re wearing braces, they cannot be removed. This ensures that you progress on schedule without the risk of missing time wearing your dental braces.
• More Control: Traditional braces may offer more precise control of your tooth movement. This is because an orthodontist regularly needs to adjust the braces.

Cons of Braces

• Extremely Visible: Braces are less aesthetically pleasing than aligners. Braces are metal, which is extremely visible in your mouth. This is especially a huge drawback for teenagers.
• Dietary Restrictions: You cannot wear braces without adjusting your diet. With braces, you can no longer eat sticky food, popcorn, or hard nuts. These foods can damage your braces or get stuck in the brackets.
• Pain and Discomfort: Braces’ disadvantages include higher pain levels, particularly after adjustments when your teeth and gums are under pressure. Some people even experience mouth and cheek irritation due to the friction of the brackets and wires.
  Oral Hygiene Difficulties: It is a lot harder to maintain your oral hygiene if you have braces. Food can get stuck around the brackets, which is difficult to clean. Additionally, braces require diligent brushing and flossing to prevent plaque build-up and gum disease.
• Frequent Adjustments: While braces straighten teeth and help you stick to a consistent treatment plan, you’ll also have to visit the dentist or orthodontist a lot more regularly. This can be incredibly time-consuming, painful, and frustrating.

Overview of Invisalign

Before you make your decision between braces vs Invisalign, let’s get into the details of what Invisalign aligners are and how they can help you.

Invisalign is one of the more modern orthodontic treatments. Clear aligners, like Invisalign, help to straighten your teeth. Unlike braces, Invisalign clear aligners are made from a smooth, clear plastic that is custom-fitted to your teeth. Over time, these Invisalign braces (or trays) move your teeth into a more suitable position.

Each aligner is used for 22 hours a day and must be removed for eating, brushing and flossing. If you’re wearing Invisalign, your aligners must be changed every 1 to 2 weeks. Treatment is much faster than braces and usually lasts between 6 and 18 months, depending on how complicated your orthodontic issue is.

Since Invisalign aligners are tailored to your mouth, your orthodontist will use 3D imaging technology to create a digital model of your teeth and jaws. Based on that model, a detailed treatment plan will be put into place.

At our Bondi Junction clinic, the average cost of Invisalign treatment is typically between $7,500 and $11,000, although your dentist will give you an accurate quote after your evaluation. Let’s talk about the pros and cons of Invisalign.

Pros of Invisalign

• Aesthetically Pleasing: This is one of the main differences between Invisalign and traditional braces. Invisalign aligners are practically invisible and much less noticeable than braces.
• Easily Removed: It’s very easy to remove your Invisalign before eating, which means you can enjoy a wide range of food without dietary restrictions. You can also take them out to brush and floss, so you have improved oral hygiene.
• Comfort: Invisalign is a better fit for your mouth thanks to 3D imagining, and the smooth plastic makes them a lot more comfortable. You will experience less pain and discomfort in comparison to braces.

Cons of Invisalign

• Limited Effectiveness: Invisalign is not really suited for severe dental issues. If you have extreme misalignment, braces can help, as you’ll need more accurate adjustments.
• Discipline Required: If you choose Invisalign, you need to be disciplined because you have to wear them for at least 20 to 22 hours a day. If you don’t wear them for the required time, your treatment time may be extended.

Key Comparisons Between Braces and Invisalign

Now let’s compare the main differences when it comes to Invisalign vs braces. It’s important to make an informed decision when deciding between traditional braces or Invisalign, so here are the main differences between Invisalign and braces summarised:

Totalcare Dental and Dermal: A Brand New Smile

At the end of the day, it all comes down to your personal preferences and how serious your misalignment is. Traditional braces and Invisalign are both effective treatments for misalignment, but severe teeth irregularities require braces.

If you’re concerned with your appearance, it’s best to go for Invisalign, as it is not as noticeable as braces. Additionally, braces also come with some dietary limitations, while Invisalign can be removed before eating. With that easy removal, however, you will require more discipline to stay on your treatment plan schedule.

It’s best to consult with a dental professional to find the right treatment for you, whether it’s Invisalign or braces. Reach out to the friendly team at Totalcare Dental and Dermal for advice on the best way forward for a brand-new smile.

Braces vs Invisalign FAQs

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