Invisalign vs. Braces: What Makes Invisalign Better

Invisalign vs. Braces: What Makes Invisalign Better

Many questions arise as people try to choose between Invisalign^® and braces. Most people tend to lean toward Invisalign especially for kids and younger people. If you are considering a dental alignment procedure, it is normal to wonder which is more effective between Invisalign and braces. Ultimately, you want to choose a procedure that is effective, practical, and affordable. You should also consider if the procedure will require you to fix your teeth again in the future. Let us explore the reasons why Invisalign is a better option.
 

What Is the Difference?

Invisalign and braces are used to fix similar dental problems, yet they work differently. Braces consist of metal brackets tied together with wires, then installed on teeth with tiny rubber bands. Invisalign consists of aligner trays made with smooth BPA free plastic. The dentist uses X-ray images to create a 3-D aligner tray for your teeth.
 

Invisalign Is Discreet

The 3-D Invisalign alignment trays are clear and discreet. They are better suited for patients who get them later in life. Braces come in bright colors and you can see the connecting wire. For a professional and discreet look, Invisalign is the superior option.
 

Invisalign Is Flexible

Once you get your aligner trays, you can use them for 22-24 hours a day depending on what your specialist will recommend for you. You can remove them when you want to eat, or when you want your teeth to take a break from them. When dealing with braces, the installation is permanent. You can only remove them for adjustment or when the problem is fixed.
 

The Difference in Cleaning

Brushing and flossing teeth with braces installed is an uphill task. The wire and brackets sometimes trap food in between them and you must carefully clean each tooth. With Invisalign, you just take off the aligner tray and clean it with toothpaste and warm water. It does not trap food particles and you can clean your teeth with ease.
 

No Difficulty Eating

Sometimes with braces, you can have difficulty eating some foods. Hard foods, sticky foods, and cold foods may give you a hard time with braces. With Invisalign, eating and cleaning up afterward is much easier. Since Invisalign is made from plastic, it is not affected by food temperature. With braces, you should keep off very hot or very cold food to keep the wire and the rubber in place.
 

Minimal Discomfort

Sometimes, you may feel pain and discomfort from wires and brackets on braces. With Invisalign, you may experience discomfort due to teeth movement but not as much as you get with braces. You change your aligner trays every two weeks to six weeks depending on the severity of the problem. It is important to note that some complicated issues may require braces even though they are not as aesthetically pleasing as Invisalign.
 

If you would like to know more about Invisalign, braces, or any other dental procedure, visit Elite Dentistry & Implant Center at our offices in Chelsea, Alabama. You can also call 205-224-0040 to book an appointment or make inquiries.