Braces have been the natural choice for dental corrective treatment for a long time, but newer products and technologies are also helping people improve their smile without the stigma associated with braces. Before you make a decision on which is the correct treatment for you, consult with a Vancouver dentist. In this article, we will compare and contrast Invisalign and traditional braces so you can make the appropriate decision for your needs and preferences.
How Do Braces Work?
Traditional braces can shift the position of the teeth or hold them in place. They are mainly used to correct alignment issues, protrusions, crowding, crookedness, and irregular spacing. For a predetermined period, you may have to wear braces over the teeth to create a more attractive and healthy smile.
How Do Aligners Work?
Aligners like Invisalign are alternatives to traditional braces. They are used for treating overbites, crossbites, mild relapse after traditional braces, widely spaced teeth, bite irregularities, and crowded teeth. Most people who choose Invisalign over braces do so because they are less visible and customizable based on each individual’s teeth.
Invisalign versus Braces
Invisalign and braces can sometimes be used for similar corrective treatments. Therefore, the choice lies with the benefits and drawbacks of each device. Let us look at some of the pros and cons of each.
| Invisalign | Braces |
| Clear or Invisible and removable | Usually metallic but can be plastic or ceramic |
| Treatment lasts 22-24 hours per day for 6 to 18 months | Treatments are 24/7 for up to 2 years |
| Bi-weekly follow-ups to change aligner trays | Monthly follow-ups |
| No discomfort from tooth movement | May cause discomfort, pain or sores from tooth movement |
| Must remove aligners before eating, brushing, drinking, or flossing but needs to be in place for up to 20 hours per day. Requires some discipline. | Always stay in place, but challenging to clean and difficulty eating sticky, hard foods. |
| Cannot be used for severe orthodontic concerns | May be used in treating severe orthodontic problems |
| May not be used for children | Children under age eight may not be candidates for dental braces but will need orthodontic evaluation around age 7 to correct developing problems. |
| Rare emergency visits | May need emergency visits when wires poke out of place. |
Invisalign and braces are two options for your dental corrective treatment. It is also important to treat underlying concerns such as gum disease or tooth decay before considering the right choice for you. The only way to determine if you are a candidate for Invisalign or dental braces is to consult your orthodontist or local Vancouver dentist. They can help you make the right choice by determining your dental needs and proper treatment approach. If you’re interested in an Invisalign consultation, contact Atlantis Dental Roundhouse today to schedule an appointment.