The result is straighter teeth, but the path to get there is up to you – Invisalign or traditional braces? One offers a discreet, sleek approach, while the other has helped improve smiles for generations. Before you decide, take a closer look at what makes each one unique so that you can decide with complete confidence how you want to straighten your smile.
Invisalign: The Invisible Solution
Invisalign is catching the attention of self-conscious adults and teens who want discreet treatment. Instead of relying on wires and brackets, this system uses nearly invisible clear plastic aligners.
What Are the Pros of Invisalign?
- The aligners are custom-made to fit your smile at each stage.
- The trays are comfortable to wear, causing minimal irritation because of their sleek plastic design.
- Many patients achieve results in 12-18 months.
- There are no food restrictions – you can eat whatever you want.
- There are fewer check-in appointments, as there is nothing for your dentist to adjust.
- The aligners are nearly invisible, so treatment can remain discreet.
What Are the Cons of Invisalign?
- You must be responsible enough to remember to wear your trays 20-22 hours a day.
- Some more complex cases may not be treatable with Invisalign.
- Depending on your smile’s needs, treatment may be more expensive than traditional braces.
Metal Braces: The Original Option
Despite advances in dentistry and orthodontics, dentists still offer traditional metal braces because they work. In fact, their effectiveness is undeniable, no matter what updated solutions become available. Their metal brackets and wires shift teeth and bites into alignment over time, and they’re highly versatile, so no case is too complex.
What Are the Pros of Metal Braces?
- They can treat all types of misalignment, including overcrowding, gaps, crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites.
- They are proven effective and have delivered life-changing results for generations of patients.
- They’re affixed to your teeth, so you don’t have to worry about meeting a specific wear time.
- They are often covered up to 50% by most dental insurance plans.
What Are the Cons of Metal Braces?
- They require you to adjust your diet, so you may not be able to enjoy all your favorite foods.
- They can be uncomfortable to wear and irritate your soft oral tissues.
- Traditional metal braces are highly visible, so treatment will be noticeable to others.
- They can be tricky to clean.
The Decision is Yours
Still unsure which one is best? Your lifestyle, budget, and specific case will determine whether you should choose Invisalign or metal braces. You and your orthodontist can discuss these factors during your consultation, but remember, no matter which one you go with, the results are the same – a straighter, healthier smile you can enjoy for the rest of your life.
About the Practice
Treehouse Orthodontics is here to make your smile-straightening journey tailor-made for you. Our board-certified orthodontists bring the skill, training, and experience to ensure you leave confident in your choice, whether you choose Invisalign or metal braces. If you’re unsure how to proceed, visit our website or call one of our offices to schedule a consultation.