Traditional Metal Braces vs. Invisalign Braces: Which One Should You Go For?

Dentists and orthodontists will suggest you either go for an Invisalign treatment or get metal braces when it comes to teeth alignment. Both of these treatments have been part of dental care for a while. They are both popular among the masses for an array of different reasons. So, when it comes to choosing between Invisalign and braces, a patient needs to opt for whatever suits them best.

Before making that choice, you’ll have to delve into their pros and cons and understand how they differ from each other. To help you do that, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about these treatments so that you can decide which one to choose.

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What is Invisalign?

Most of you have probably heard about braces. However, Invisalign is not that common, which is why we’ll first look at what it is and how it’s different from braces.

Invisalign is a popular brand of clear aligners. It too corrects teeth alignment through the attachment of mouthpieces. However, Invisalign is see-through or invisible. When you break down the term ‘Invisalign,’ you get the words ‘invisible’ and ‘alignment.’

These clear aligners are custom-made for each patient and fit perfectly around their teeth. Applying pressure to the teeth, the Invisalign helps give them the desired position.

Clinics Don’t Always Specialize in Both Braces and Invisalign

Very few orthodontic practices offer specialized treatments for both braces and Invisalign. However, there are a few noteworthy practices that do cater to both. Robison Orthodontics, a leading provider of Invisalign and braces in Gilbert, Az, is one such practice. They have experts who specialize in both braces and Invisalign treatment. So, you can always consult these specialists if you want to know which one would suit your teeth best.

Pros and Cons of Invisalign

Invisalign has several benefits. However, these aligners have their drawbacks too.

Pros

• Since Invisalign aligners are transparent, they don’t stand out as braces do. Invisalign looks invisible from a distance, which isn’t possible for braces. Many opt for Invisalign when they’re very conscious about their looks or don’t want to be seen in braces in public.
• Invisalign aligners are much more comfortable to wear. They reduce the chances of cuts and discomfort and are mostly a painless experience.
• Traditional metal braces require a specific dental care process when you’re brushing or flossing. You don’t need to go that far with clear aligners like Invisalign. Take off the mouthpiece, and then brush and floss as usual.
• Invisalign wearers need to visit an orthodontist once every four to six weeks. However, people with braces need to visit them once every two or three weeks. They also need to visit their orthodontist every time they need to adjust their braces.

Cons

• Invisalign, or any clear aligner for that matter, can’t guarantee complex corrections. It’s best for only minor straightening.
• Kids tend to lose aligners easily, which is a problem, given how expensive they are (we’ll get to that later).
• People tend to take them out more frequently as they are removable. However, doing so will hamper the straightening process.

Pros and Cons of Braces

Pros

• Braces can help with both minor and complex teeth straightening.
• Since you can’t take them off, wearing braces makes you more disciplined. That means you’re bound to wear them at all times, leading to quicker and more effective straightening.

Cons

• Braces stick out badly. So, you might feel weird wearing them in public if you’re conscious about the way you look.
• Braces tend to hurt at times, especially when they get misaligned.
• To correct the alignment, you’ll have to visit your orthodontist.
• Braces can leave stains on your teeth for up to two years.
• Braces will prevent you from eating gum, candy, popcorn, etc.

Cost Comparison

Braces will cost you between $2,500 and $6,000. Invisalign, on the other hand, costs upwards of $3,500. Getting an Invisalign treatment will trouble your wallets. However, it also means you can save money by avoiding frequent orthodontist appointments.

Braces will be perfect if you want something cheap, rigid, and aren’t afraid of going out in public with wires running across your teeth. However, Invisalign should be the way to go if you don’t like how braces make you look and are willing to spend for that.