Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces

Both Invisalign^® and traditional braces have been developed to straighten teeth. The conventional option is irremovable and made of metal brackets that are bonded on the surface of your teeth. Wires and tiny rubber bands tie them together. On the other hand, Invisalign is removable and designed to be natural-looking. Aligner trays are made of clear plastic worn over your teeth to move them into alignment. If you’re not sure which orthodontic treatment is best for you, here are some factors you need to consider:

• Color. While Invisalign is made of clear, virtually invisible trays, traditional braces typically come in silver. But you can pay extra for a different color.

• Comfort. Invisalign can be more comfortable than traditional braces as they are made of smooth plastic. There will be no brackets that will cut and create sores in your mouth. Besides, these removable aligners let you eat and drink as usual. Wearing traditional braces, though, means you’d have to be more careful with your food choices. Staying away from hard or sticky food is recommended to avoid damaging the wires and brackets. Traditional braces are also not advisable for patients who engage in contact sports.

• Treatment Time. The treatment time for Invisalign is generally a bit less than its conventional counterpart. Depending on the patient’s needs, invisible aligners need to be worn for at least 22 hours a day for about six to 18 months. However, the metal braces cannot be removed and have to be worn 24/7, usually for about a couple of years.

• Follow-Up Visits. Different aligner trays will gradually move your teeth into alignment. You need to change these Invisalign trays every two weeks and visit your dentist every four to six weeks. With traditional braces, you’d need to see your dentist every month for a checkup. This way, he or she will assess how your teeth are shifting, and if wire adjustments will be necessary.

• Maintenance. Invisalign aligners let you brush and floss your teeth as usual. But you need to rinse your aligners every time you take them out. You need to soak them in lukewarm water once a day. Since traditional braces are fixed in your mouth, they are more likely to trap food particles. This makes it rather challenging to clean. It’s highly advisable to brush and floss your teeth twice a day and use a water pick to remove food debris.

• Cost. Invisalign generally costs $5,500 without insurance. Traditional metal braces are more affordable. On average, patients can expect to spend only anywhere from $2,500 to $6,000 for this treatment.

Invisalign is highly beneficial for aesthetic purposes and in treating simple dental issues. On the other hand, traditional braces work efficiently in fixing complex dental problems, such as closing gaps.

Can’t decide between Invisalign and traditional braces? Regardless of which treatment you select, our oral health care professionals at Dr. Rudell Gary Jacinto, DMD General, and Cosmetic Dentistry can help give you the straight, bright smile using the orthodontic option that’s best for you. Call our clinic today in Los Angeles, CA at (416) 785-7619 to schedule your first consultation.