Comparing Invisalign with Traditional Braces

Orthodontic treatment comes in all different shapes and styles. While all methods will achieve a straighter and healthier smile, Invisalign is a popular alternative offering many benefits along the way that metal braces don’t. Let’s start by comparing Invisalign with traditional braces.

Appearance

The biggest difference with Invisalign is that it offers a discreet way to straighten teeth. Invisalign consists of clear trays custom fitted to the teeth that are nearly invisible, rather than having obvious metal brackets fixed to the teeth. This offers an aesthetically pleasing alternative where patients aren’t left feeling self-conscious about their smile, which can sometimes happen with traditional metal braces.

Comfort

Invisalign trays are smooth, custom fit, and are less likely to cause irritation. Traditional braces have metal brackets and wires which can be more irritating to the cheeks, tongue, and gums. Invisalign tends to be the more comfortable option.

Convenience

Unlike metal braces that are fixed to your teeth, Invisalign trays are removable at any time. This means eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing can all be done as if you don’t have braces at all! You simply remove the trays and do these things as you did before. This makes your oral hygiene goals easier to maintain and means you don’t have to sacrifice any foods like you do with traditional metal braces.

Appointment Times

Patients that choose Invisalign over traditional braces often notice their appointment times are shorter and less frequent. With Invisalign, check-up appointments are quick and simple. The clear trays are simply checked to ensure they fit properly. With traditional metal braces, wires are removed and replaced at each appointment, and you might need to be seen more often.

Compliance

With Invisalign, the patient is responsible for wearing the trays full time; at least 22 hours every day. This leaves 2 hours per day that they can be removed for eating and cleaning. Without full time wear, a straight smile will not be achieved. With traditional metal braces there is no option to remove them, so some patients prefer not having the responsibility of making sure they are being worn full-time.

Conclusion

Overall, when comparing Invisalign with traditional metal braces, there are benefits to each. But the sleek appearance, enhanced comfort, and convenience all add up to make Invisalign the modern choice for achieving a beautiful, confident smile for all ages! See if Invisalign is the right choice for you by booking your free consultation with our own in-house certified orthodontist, Dr. Melissa Sander.