Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces: A Comprehensive Comparison

When you consider that orthodontic treatment could last from six months to two years, it makes sense to take the time to learn about the treatment plan and make an informed choice about which one is right for you.

With this in mind, we’re going to carry out a comprehensive comparison of these treatment plans so you can better understand what lies ahead. By the end of this article, you should have a clearer idea about which treatment is right for you. This guide should also help to clear up any myths around treatment that might be holding you back from taking that first step…

Invisalign and traditional fixed braces explained

First things first, both treatments will help you to achieve the same results. If you want straighter teeth and a perfectly aligned smile, you need to think about orthodontic treatment. While there are ways to achieve the appearance of straighter teeth, only orthodontics can actually improve the alignment of your teeth.

Traditional fixed braces use brackets bonded to each individual tooth and a wire running between them to apply strategic pressure to the teeth. Treatment times will vary depending on your alignment issues and how well your teeth respond to the treatment. You’ll need to visit the dentist regularly for checkups and adjustments.

With Invisalign, you wear a clear and removable plastic aligner that sits flush against your teeth. At the start of the treatment, you’ll receive a case of aligners. You’ll wear each set of aligners for 10-14 days and then move on to the next one in the treatment plan. The aligners apply gentle pressure to your teeth and move them closer and closer to perfect alignment.

Who should consider Invisalign treatment?

Invisalign treatment is incredibly popular due to the nearly invisible aligners which help to make the treatment a lot more discreet. If you’re worried about how you will look during orthodontic treatment, an invisible aligner system like this can help.

Invisalign is also perfect for those who don’t want to make any drastic changes to their lifestyle during treatment. With Invisalign, you can remove your aligners to eat, drink and brush your teeth. This means that no foods are off-limits. It also means that caring for your teeth is very simple.

One final reason you should consider Invisalign treatment is if you don’t have time to visit the dentist as often. With Invisalign aligners, you can change your aligners at home, which is the equivalent of an adjustment. You still will need to visit the dentist during your treatment, but it won’t be as frequent. This can be ideal if you have a busy lifestyle and would struggle to get the time off work.

Who should consider traditional braces?

Invisalign isn’t right for everyone, and there are a few things to consider when choosing your treatment plan. Traditional fixed braces are highly effective and deliver excellent results. And since they are fixed to your teeth and you can’t remove them, there is no risk of derailing your treatment plan by forgetting to wear your aligners.

If you think you might forget to wear your aligners, or if you’re worried that the temptation to take your aligners out might be too much, then fixed braces might be more successful.

It’s also worth thinking about if you are the type of person that might lose their aligners when they take them out. If you’re often losing track of things, removable aligners might not be right for you.

Another common reason for choosing traditional fixed braces is to make it easier to enjoy things like tea and coffee throughout the day. With fixed braces, you can drink anything you want without concern.

You might need to avoid certain foods, but you can eat and drink without having to remove your braces. This can be a lot less fuss than Invisalign treatment, which would require you to remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water.

Final thoughts on Invisalign vs traditional braces

The best way to determine which treatment plan is right for you is to speak to a specialist orthodontist. This will enable you to learn more about the treatment plans and receive personalised recommendations on which one would be right for you.

Invisalign and traditional braces are both suitable for a wide range of orthodontic issues, but there are certain factors that need to be considered when choosing the right treatment plan. To help you make this decision, book an appointment with our orthodontic team today. We’ll help you to make the right choice for your needs.