Invisalign vs Traditional Braces: What is the Difference?

Invisalign vs Traditional Braces: What is the Difference?

April 1, 2022

More than 60 percent of people report that a smile is important to a person’s overall experience. To achieve the smile of their dreams, millions of people have invested in either braces or Invisalign. In pursuit of the perfect smile, more people are getting involved in the debate on which is a better solution for them and their children, braces or Invisalign.

This answer to the question largely depends on personal preferences and priorities. This article will dive deep into the braces vs Invisalign debate, and address all we need to know about the two.

Difference in Appearance

The most apparent difference between the two modes of teeth realignments is their appearance. Invisalign takes the cake in this category, no contest. At a glance, Invisalign is practically undetectable even to metal detectors, which is not the case with braces. The Invisalign trays are constructed from a clear material, unlike braces, which are made from metal. Most kids and adults alike prefer Invisalign because they are by far less intrusive when compared to braces. However, some children may prefer picking out differently colored bands to put in their braces though it is not reduced to just children.

If you are looking to fix their smile discreetly then Invisalign is the superior choice for your purposes. Our dentist in 07024 can help you get the smile of your dreams.

The difference in Cleaning and Care

Cleaning your teeth is very important for it whether you have braces or not. Though the process can be a lot easier with braces compared to Invisalign because you can keep brushing and flossing just like you would do without them. If food gets stuck in your teeth, you should use a smaller brush to clean them.

For people using Invisalign, much of the cleaning process both brushing and flossing, is largely the same though some extra effort may be necessary. Each time you have a meal, ensure you clean out the trays. For rinsing, use warm water and proceed to wash with a special Invisalign cleaning solution.

When traveling ensure you carry your Invisalign cleaning kit, cleaning your teeth without it can be quite difficult. Not cleaning your teeth will lead to a build-up of solid material leading to a multiplication in the bacteria in the mouth. Whether you have braces or Invisalign, do not forget to brush, you should be diligent about oral health at all times.

Difference in Effectiveness

Braces are a lot more popular, partly because they have been in the mainstream decades. Patients do not have the option of removing their braces, wearing them for 24 hours a day, every day of the week. Orthodontists also recommend this.

With Invisalign, the trays are removable. As such, patients do not always comply with the recommended duration of use. Should you forget or misplace the trays, your teeth are likely to keep shifting when you are not wearing them. Not complying with the recommended time of use will lengthen the recovery period to finish the treatment.

Regular braces are likely to help if your teeth are severely misaligned. Invisalign on the other hand, cannot be used to straighten teeth that are overlapped.

Follow-Up Treatment

You should have regular appointments with your dentist at So Good Dental whether you have braces or Invisalign or not. Typically. If you have braces, you should see the dentist about once a month and about 4-6 weeks for Invisalign.

After finishing with braces, you will be required to wear retainers, usually at night. This is to ensure the teeth stay in position after they are removed. Without the retainer, the teeth are likely to go back to the same position they were in before the procedure. In the same vein, when getting Invisalign treatments, you should wear a tray throughout the night after your treatment is done.

Is Invisalign Better Than Braces?

At the end of the day, the decision on braces vs Invisalign comes down to your personal preference. To make the right decision either for yourself or your child make sure you weigh all the factors. Before proceeding with whichever procedure you choose, make sure to consult an orthodontist beforehand.

Regardless of whether you choose braces or Invisalign, you do not have to wait to change your smile and reap the benefit from the confidence that comes with it. Whatever you choose, ensure you maintain proper oral hygiene while keeping in regular contact with our Invisalign dentist in Fort Lee.