If you’re not 100% happy with your smile, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that 1 in 5 orthodontic patients are 18 years of age or older, with many adult patients choosing orthodontics for purely aesthetic reasons. So, while most people probably think of Invisalign or braces as things that they were supposed to have as children, there’s really no wrong time to work on a straighter, brighter smile.
But if you’re currently looking at different options, you’re probably comparing the two most popular solutions: Invisalign vs braces. In today’s guide, we’ll examine everything you need to know about both and (hopefully) help you decide which option is best for you. So, let’s get started!
Invisalign vs Braces: What’s The Difference?
Picking the type of teeth-straightening treatment that is best for you requires consultations with a trained orthodontist. That said, the two most common options are Invisalign and traditional braces. Let’s take a closer look at both (and who they’re typically right for) in the sections below:
What Is Invisalign?
Braces have been around for more than two centuries, so most people are pretty familiar with them. Invisalign, on the other hand, hasn’t even been around for two decades. It’s important to note that the biggest difference between Invisalign and braces is that one is a brand and the other is a more general term for fixed dental tools for teeth straightening.
Invisalign is simply a brand of removable teeth straighteners that are clear and designed to be
“Invisible” or nearly invisible. To get Invisalign, you must meet with an Invisalign orthodontist and have a mold made of your teeth. Then, the orthodontist will create clear plastic wearable retainers that can be put on and taken off as needed. Invisalign retainers apply slight pressure to the teeth, allowing them to move over time.
Typically, the first set of Invisalign retainers are worn for about 3 to 6 months. You’ll usually wear them around the clock and only take them out while eating for the first few months. During or after this period, your orthodontist might make new molds of your teeth and create new retainers that can provide increased pressure. Much like the retainers you wear after traditional braces are removed, Invisalign retainers are meant to be worn intermittently (at least a few times per week) for the rest of your life. This ensures that your teeth stay in the desired position for the long term.
As a general rule, Invisalign is preferable for many adults and teenagers who don’t require substantial movement to get their desired smile. Invisalign is meant for mild to moderate alignment issues. Additionally, Invisalign may be preferable for people who want a more discreet teeth-straightening solution. While starting prices may be a little higher for Invisalign, there’s often not a substantial difference between the prices of Invisalign and traditional braces.
What Are Dental Braces?
There’s a good chance that you already know a bit about dental braces, but if you don’t, we’re here to help! Traditional dental braces are made up of metal or ceramic brackets that are glued to each tooth. Then, a metal wire is threaded through these brackets by an orthodontist. The orthodontist will then tighten the wire to achieve the desired smile and alignment. If additional shifting is required, rubber bands can also be attached to the brackets.
Unlike Invisalign, dental braces are highly visible and fixed in place, and they must be maintained by an orthodontist rather than your current dentist. They are also worn for a longer period before retainers can be used, depending on the severity of the misalignment. When there are severe alignment issues, and they may also need to be combined with more invasive options like headgear to correct jaw alignment and bone growth, particularly in younger patients. While braces can be helpful for severe issues, Invisalign is quickly becoming the more desired option for teeth straightening.
Speak To Trained Dental Care Professionals Today
Are you interested in straightening your teeth with Invisalign? Do you need the advice of trained dental care specialists? Finally, do you live close to one of our offices in Chico, CA? If so, you can trust you’re getting the absolute best service and attention at Kremer Dental Care.
Want to learn more about Invisalign vs braces or get started on the path to a brighter smile? Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment!
