If you’re pursuing cosmetic dental work to straighten your teeth, you’ll likely be faced with two options: Invisalign or braces. But which is better?
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign treatment makes use of advanced orthodontic technology to straighten teeth over the course of several months. Invisalign braces are customised clear aligners that force teeth into a desired position. Traditional metal braces are primarily different in the sense that they utilise fixed wires to ‘pull’ teeth into alignment.
Are Clear Aligners Better Than Braces?
In many ways, you can argue that clear aligners, like Invisalign, are better than braces.
Cleaner Aesthetic
Invisalign retainers are virtually invisible. This is hugely beneficial if you’re worried about how you might look with standard braces or want to avoid being questioned about your dental work. Clear aligners are difficult to spot, meaning that people are unlikely to notice that you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Extra Comfortable
Whether you choose braces or Invisalign, the experience of having your teeth moved around is probably going to be at least a little uncomfortable or painful. However, an advantage of Invisalign is that they are made of a special plastic and fitted to the wearer’s mouth in a way that minimises the occurrence of mouth and gum issues. Unlike braces, Invisalign doesn’t typically cause cuts on the insides of your cheeks or lips.
Conveniently Removable
Clear aligners can be taken out to eat and easily inserted back in again. They don’t have to be worn all the time, although they should be worn for 20–22 hours a day to achieve the best results. Plus, with Invisalign, you don’t have to avoid certain foods or adjust the way you eat.
Hygienic
Since clear aligners are easily removable, wearers can take them out to brush and floss their teeth as they usually would. Aligners are also easy to clean completely, while braces tend to catch a lot of food and plaque. If traditional braces aren’t properly and consistently cleaned, they can cause conditions associated with poor oral hygiene, such as gum disease and tooth decay.
Faster Treatment Time
On average, patients wear their clear aligners for 6 to 18 months before they see results and are able to finish the treatment. Traditional braces are usually worn for much longer, often taking 2 years to really work.
Simple Low Maintenance
Once you have the clear aligners, your need for further consultations is minimal. Your orthodontist will check in with you every now and then to keep track of your progress, but you will not need to return to make any adjustments to your aligners.
What Are the Advantages of Braces?
With all that being said, there’s good reasons why traditional braces are still a popular cosmetic dental treatment in Melbourne and around the world.
Suitable for All Treatments
Braces are the most powerful and effective tool for moving teeth into new positions. Even if you have a difficult case with multiple dental and facial issues requiring correction, braces can solve your problems. Invisalign, on the other hand, is limited in terms of how many teeth it can move at once. This is why it is not usually recommended for those who require more complicated dental care.
Can Achieve Perfect Results
Using anchors and arch wires, braces have more force than Invisalign and a greater capacity to move teeth into the desired position. This is why they are often the preferred choice for more crowded teeth or teeth that need more movement.
Available in Several Types & Styles
Today, orthodontists are able to offer more options than the classic combination of metal brackets and wires. These include lingual and ceramic braces, which are less noticeable than traditional metal braces.
Which Option is Best for You?
There are many variables to consider before you choose between braces and Invisalign. The following questions should help you come to a decision that suits your particular needs:
Are You Wanting Straighter Teeth for Cosmetic Reasons Or Are You Having Dental Issues?
If you have several issues with your teeth and require orthodontic attention, braces will probably be the ideal solution. If, on the other hand, you really only want cosmetic dental work, Invisalign is the better option.
Are You Generally Self-Disciplined Or Would You Prefer to ‘Set & Forget’?
If you’re looking for a convenient and low-maintenance option when it comes to orthodontic treatment, Invisalign is your answer. With Invisalign, you don’t require many ongoing checkups or consultations. You can also eat, drink, brush your teeth and floss with ease just by temporarily taking the aligners out.
However, you do need to remember to replace your clear aligners as soon as you’re done eating or looking after your oral health. If you tend to be forgetful, braces may be a better option.
Are Clear Aligners Better Than Braces?
The answer to this question ultimately depends on what you are hoping to get out of your orthodontic treatment. Clear aligners are not better than braces in terms of their ability to get the desired result. They are, however, the more comfortable, convenient and time-saving solution for many people.
As with any decision related to cosmetic dentistry, the friendly team at Stanley St Dental are always happy to help. Contact them today and book an appointment with one of Melbourne’s favourite dental practices, located in Collingwood.