Invisalign vs. Braces: How to Choose the Best Option for You

Our smiles play a huge role in our confidence. It’s no surprise that everyone wants to have a shining, white, and straight smile! Still, some teeth just come in crooked. Fortunately, correcting misaligned teeth is a straightforward process.

Invisalign and traditional braces are the two leading teeth-straightening methods used today. However, which one is best for you?

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a type of clear aligner that corrects crooked teeth. Over the course of your treatment, multiple mouthpieces are used to guide teeth into an optimal position. Each aligner is molded to your mouth, making them completely custom. They are made from medical-grade plastic and are practically invisible.

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign combines advanced 3D computer graphics technology with modern dentistry. 3D images provide a guide for your smile, and the clear aligners are then designed accordingly.

Correcting a crooked smile with Invisalign requires multiple aligners used over a set period of time. Each new aligner uses pressure to slowly move your teeth in the right direction. Furthermore, every clear mouthpiece is precisely calibrated and custom-manufactured for you. It thus fits your mouth comfortably and at every stage of your treatment plan.

The Benefits of Invisalign

Many people choose Invisalign as they seek to correct their smile. There are several key reasons for Invisalign’s popularity, including the following:

• Invisalign is virtually invisible, leaving you free to go about your day without worrying about your appearance. 
• Invisalign often corrects crooked teeth faster than traditional braces.
• Invisalign is removable, so you can eat your favourite foods whenever you want. There’s no need to fear hard or chewy foods!
• Home care is easier with Invisalign. Simply remove the aligners and brush and floss your teeth as normal.
• Invisalign requires fewer orthodontist visits (every 4-6 weeks instead of monthly with traditional braces).
• Invisalign is best for teens and adults.
• Invisalign is more comfortable than traditional braces.

What are braces?

Traditional dental braces use metal brackets (made from high-grade stainless steel) to guide teeth into the right placement. These brackets are attached to the teeth and tied together by wires.

How do braces work?

Although they use different mechanics, both Invisalign and traditional braces correct crooked teeth with low constant pressure, gradually moving teeth into the desired alignment. Since a bracket adheres to every tooth, braces are perfect for fixing extreme overcrowding and adjusting multiple crooked teeth at the same time.

Consequently, traditional braces are best for complex corrections. Those opting for traditional braces, however, must visit their dentist every month.

The Benefits of Braces

Many children, teens, and adults still opt for traditional dental braces to improve their smiles. Braces offer the following benefits:

• Braces work for both minor and complex corrections.
• Braces cannot be removed without the help of an orthodontist. This is actually beneficial because the correction cannot be (accidentally) sabotaged by the patient. If aligners are removed frequently, the alignment will not work. Braces mean less personal responsibility for the user.
• You can drink any beverage while wearing braces. On the other hand, tea, coffee, and wine can stain Invisalign.
• Braces tend to cost less than Invisalign.

Appearance

When it comes to appearance, Invisalign is the clear winner. Moreover, Invisalign’s discreet nature is a key determining factor in the decision of many patients. 

Invisalign is virtually undetectable, meaning it won’t knock your confidence as you go about your day. Adults can go to work, run errands, and socialize without ever revealing that they wear aligners. Consequently, many adults prefer Invisalign over traditional braces.

Children wearing traditional braces, on the other hand, may enjoy picking out different coloured bands for their braces. 

Cost

Cost is another significant differentiator between clear aligners and traditional braces. Traditional braces tend to be the more affordable option. The price of Invisalign varies depending on how many aligners are required. 

Severe cases with greater misalignment are more expensive to correct with Invisalign than minor issues. It’s important to discuss the matter with your dentist to get a true estimate of the cost.

Comfort

You want your tooth-straightening journey to be as pain-free as possible. Although this is not always feasible (shifting the alignment of your teeth can hurt regardless of the method), Invisalign is often the more comfortable option.

Braces apply increased pressure to your teeth, which can lead to more soreness. Additionally, the sharp edges of braces can cut your inner lip and tongue. This is a particular concern with children who play sports.

Invisalign, though, is much more comfortable to wear. After all, Invisalign is custom-manufactured for your mouth. It fits snugly against your teeth and won’t cause any cuts.

Effectiveness

Both Invisalign and traditional braces are effective teeth-straightening methods when done properly. However, traditional braces are more effective in cases where teeth are severely misaligned or crowded. Teeth that are rotated or overlapping cannot always be corrected with Invisalign.

The biggest challenge to Invisalign’s effectiveness is the patient. Invisalign must be worn twenty-two hours a day to correct crooked teeth on schedule. However, as Invisalign is removable, many patients end up wearing their aligners less than they need to. This slows down the entire treatment. 

Care and Cleaning

Proper dental hygiene is essential, no matter how crooked or straight your teeth may be. Brushing and flossing are still absolutely necessary with Invisalign or traditional braces.

The difficulty with traditional braces is that bits of food can get stuck in the braces, which makes your twice-a-day cleaning more of an ordeal. With Invisalign, you need to take extra care to keep the trays clean. The aligner should be cleaned every time you eat using warm water and a brush. The crevices within Invisalign can sometimes be a hassle to clean, but it is crucial!

Is Invisalign Right for You? Bloor West Smiles Can Help

Bloor West Smiles is an Invisalign clinic in Toronto. If you’re tired of misaligned teeth and are ready to transform your smile, we can help. 

Looking for an Invisalign clinic in Toronto? Call Bloor West Smiles at 647-371-1407 or contact us here.