If you or your child needs braces, you might be wondering which type of orthodontic treatment is better: Invisalign or traditional braces. Both options have their own benefits and drawbacks, so it ultimately depends on your personal preference and orthodontic needs.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of Invisalign vs. traditional braces to help you make an informed decision.
Appearance:
One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign is that they are virtually invisible. Made of clear, smooth plastic, they are almost undetectable when they are worn. This is a great option for individuals who are self-conscious about their appearance and don’t want to draw attention to their teeth.
Traditional braces, on the other hand, are made of metal brackets and wires that are visible on the teeth.
Comfort:
Invisalign is much more comfortable than traditional braces. The plastic aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth, which means they are as snug and comfortable as possible. Furthermore, since they do not contain any sharp brackets or wires, they are unlikely to cause irritation to the mouth or gums.
Traditional braces, on the other hand, can be uncomfortable and may cause irritation to the mouth and gums.
Convenience:
Another benefit of Invisalign versus traditional braces is that they are much more convenient. Unlike traditional braces, which require frequent trips to the orthodontist to adjust brackets and wires, Invisalign requires only occasional checkups to ensure that your teeth are moving as planned.
Furthermore, since the aligners are removable, you can eat and brush your teeth as you normally would.
Treatment Time:
Invisalign usually requires less time than traditional braces for treatment. On average, Invisalign treatment takes between 12-18 months, while traditional braces can take up to 3 years.
Since Invisalign aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth and are designed to apply a specific amount of pressure, they are able to move teeth into their proper position more efficiently than traditional braces.
Effectiveness:
When it comes to effectiveness, both Invisalign and traditional braces can straighten teeth and correct other orthodontic issues such as overbite, underbite, and overcrowding.
Invisalign is especially effective for mild to moderate cases, while traditional braces may be recommended for more severe cases.
Final Thoughts
When comparing the benefits of Invisalign vs. traditional braces, it is clear that Invisalign offers many advantages to patients. From their nearly invisible appearance, to their custom-fit comfort, to their convenience and efficiency, Invisalign is a great choice for many people needing orthodontic treatment.
However, traditional braces remain a solid choice for more severe cases. Whatever your choice of treatment may be, proper oral hygiene and regular checkups with your orthodontist at Brookshire Smile Dental are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
If you’re considering orthodontic treatment and would like more information on Invisalign or traditional braces, give us a call at (281) 934-1010.