Invisalign Vs. Braces
Are you wondering about the differences between Invisalign vs. braces? We’ll take a closer look and explore the pros and cons.
First, keep in mind that Invisalign and braces can both be effective ways to perfect smiles. However, some people may benefit more from braces, while others can get fantastic results with clear removable aligners.
Today, finding out if you are a candidate for Invisalign or braces has never been easier. From the comfort of home, you can take a free virtual consultation to learn more from Pacific Northwest Orthodontics.
Get started with your free virtual consultation here. It’s quick and easy to get a professional assessment of your smile. Now, let’s take a closer look at Invisalign vs. braces.
The Pros of Invisalign
Many people love the discreet nearly-invisible look of Invisalign. Unless you tell them, most people won’t realize you are working on your smile. Plus, you can remove the aligner to eat, drink, brush, and floss your teeth. Thus, Invisalign is convenient and gives you more freedom to eat what you want.
Another pro is that Invisalign can be more comfortable. Unlike braces, there is no metal wire, which can sometimes cause abrasions. Also, no wire means there are no adjustments. So, that can translate to fewer visits to the orthodontist. In most cases, you’ll visit every 8 to 10 weeks and progress to a new set of aligners every two weeks.
Additionally, with Invisalign SmileView, you can see how your smile will appear before you start treatment. Lastly, getting started is easier with the iTero digital scanner. Now, you don’t have to put messy putty in your mouth, and the 3D scans allow us to design the perfect custom-treatment plan for your smile.
The Cons of Invisalign
Invisalign has provided an effective treatment for over 8 million people worldwide. The vast majority of people are happy with the results. However, as with any procedure, there can be some drawbacks.
To have success, you must have the discipline to keep your aligners in place for 22 hours every day. Thus, you can only remove them for a short time for meals and cleaning your teeth. If you do take out your aligner, you must carefully keep track of it, as you would a retainer. Plus, after treatment, you will wear a retainer as you would following braces.
At the start of Invisalign, you may experience some discomfort. However, it is generally minimal as you progress. As you get used to wearing the aligners, you may have a temporary lisp in your speech as you would with braces. However, soon you will become adjusted.
Lastly, treatment time varies by individual, with some finishing in as little as six months. Others with more serious bite problems can take over a year. On the other hand, when you finish, you will be delighted with the beautiful life-changing results.
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The Pros of Braces
Modern braces are streamlined and less noticeable than ever. Although they may not be as discreet as Invisalign, clear ceramic braces come very close. One of the biggest benefits of braces is they can treat more complicated bite problems. Importantly, they allow your orthodontist to have total control and make minute adjustments.
Since braces are attached to your teeth temporarily, you don’t have to worry about ever losing them. Plus, you don’t have to worry about not sticking to your treatment.
In some cases, braces can work faster to move teeth, especially where there are significant gaps. In other cases, Invisalign may be just as effective. After your free consultation, Dr. Virk or Dr. Merriman will discuss all the options with you.
The Cons of Braces
As we noted, the wire in braces can cause mouth abrasions. Plus, you will need to come to the orthodontist more often for adjustments. Also, sometimes your bands and braces can come loose, requiring a trip to our offices for a closer look.
For some patients, they may be reluctant to wear headgear, which can slow down treatment. And, you must wear a mouthguard if you are playing sports.
Initially, you’ll experience some soreness, and there may be times when you need to apply dental wax to relieve irritation. Generally, the soreness lasts no more than one or two weeks as you adjust. Also, you may have some problems with your speech while wearing braces, which tends to be more than with Invisalign.
Unlike Invisalign, you must avoid certain foods during treatment. With both Invisalign and braces, you’ll wear a retainer after you finish treatment.
Lastly, the look of braces may be unappealing for some. For others, they love using colorful bands and consider the look quite fun and even stylish. It all depends on your unique personality.
We hope this answers most of your questions about Invisalign vs. braces. Don’t hesitate to call us if you have more questions. We’d be happy to help! As always, you can call us anytime at (253) 472-7788.
Get a Perfect Smile for Life with Invisalign or Braces
After your free consultation, we’ll discuss if you would benefit more from Invisalign or braces. Then, we’ll discuss affordable payment plans so that you can get started on a beautiful smile for life.
At Pacific Northwest Orthodontics, we make your experience fun, affordable, interactive, and effective.
Get started with your free virtual consultation here. Or, contact us online here.
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