The two most popular and widespread orthodontic treatments today are Invisalign and traditional braces. Correcting misalignments in the jaw and straightening teeth are the primary focus of most orthodontic treatments. While traditional metal braces have ordinarily accomplished these needs well, the development of clear Invisalign treatments have open up greater possibilities and created a new aesthetic for orthodontic care. Still, there are important differences and effects of braces treatments and Invisalign, and often the effectiveness of the treatments comes down to your individual orthodontic needs. Here is a look at some of the advantage and disadvantages of both.
Invisalign
The Invisalign orthodontic treatment is a popular method of straightening teeth without the complex hardware of traditional metal braces. Invisalign is more discreet and practically unnoticeable compared to metal braces. Even with the more advanced metal braces of today, Invisalign is on another tier of orthodontic treatment. Invisalign treatment works through a series of removable aligners that are constantly adjusted as the teeth shift. The absence of metal or wires make these an attractive option for adults who don’t want to go through the traditional braces experience and desire a more discreet, removable option.
Invisalign must be worn responsibly 22 hours a day in order to effectively align your teeth. Each custom aligner gradually moves the teeth into place and are worn sequentially for two week periods. Depending on your teeth, treatment time can vary from a few months to over a year. While Invisalign can seem like the perfect alternative to braces, there are some limitations. For severely rotated teeth, overcrowded teeth, bite misalignments, and teeth at different heights, Invisalign may not be the ideal treatment and ordinary braces may be more advantageous. Invisalign treatments may also cost up to $500 more than traditional metal braces treatment.
Metal Braces
The traditional route to straighter teeth and a better smile has historically been through metal braces. These braces have evolved a lot over the past two decades and are now more cosmetically pleasing and more lightweight than in the past. Bonded metal brackets and wires are the current standard, and there are many color options–including clear–for patients. Braces are committing and, unlike Invisalign treatments, cannot be removed to eat. Most patients are stuck with the braces for 12 to 20 months. The major benefit of braces is that they can effectively treat all orthodontic problems, but they must be regularly adjusted and thoroughly cleaned and maintained during treatment.
Traditional braces will typically cost less than an Invisalign treatment and can be more effective for correcting jaw misalignments, overcrowding, and rotated teeth than Invisalign. Braces today are less painful and more aesthetically friendly than braces of the past, making them more pleasing to adults looking to correct orthodontic problems and improve their smiles. The temporary inconvenience of braces can be offset by the long term advantages of healthy, straight teeth and a better bite. McDonough Orthodontics in Utah offers both Invisalign and traditional metal braces. You can schedule a free smile evaluation here!