Both Invisalign® and traditional braces are useful orthodontic treatments, but which is right for your unique smile. Our CCOA member practice shares a few tips to help you decide.
Your Smile is Unique
Dental health care needs differ for every one of our patients. This is why it is important to consider all of the dental treatment options such as the pros and cons of Invisalign vs traditional braces to ensure the best possible results from your orthodontic treatment.
Braces
For those less concerned about style, and more concerned about function, traditional metal braces are the typical orthodontic treatment option. Traditional braces have improved over time and are very effective when it comes to correcting misalignment issues, closing gaps, and aligning teeth.
Your teeth will typically take 18 months to 3 years to straighten with braces, but there is often a noticeable difference within a short period of time.
Throughout your orthodontic treatment with braces, you will need to attend frequent adjustment appointments and may need to give up some foods that you enjoy but which could damage braces.
When weighing up orthodontic treatment options, many adults feel that they would be very self-conscious about wearing traditional metal braces.
Invisalign
Made from thin clear plastic, Invisalign aligners are almost completely invisible when worn. Which means hardly anyone will notice that you're straightening your teeth. The thin clear aligners allow you to enjoy your smile as it evolves.
Invisalign aligners are also removable so there is no need to give up any of the foods you love. Whether you're on a date night at the movies, or at a business lunch, simply remove your aligners and store them in their handy case while you enjoy all of your favourite foods.
Comfort is bound to be one of your main considerations when choosing an orthodontic treatment option. Many people find that Invisalign's smooth plastic aligners feel more comfortable than the wires and brackets that come along with traditional braces.
While Invisalign can treat many orthodontic issues, it is often used to treat less severe and less complex misalignment problems. So that Invisalign tends to be considered a more gentle and less invasive option.
Ultimately, the treatment you choose to straighten your smile will depend upon your personal preferences balanced with the severity and complexity of your orthodontic issue.