Braces vs. Invisalign: Which Orthodontic Treatment is Right for Me?

When a patient requires orthodontic treatment to straighten their teeth, they usually have to choose between traditional braces or Invisalign. Traditional braces consist of wires, bands and brackets. With the new lingual braces and clear aligners, patients must know the facts about the options available before choosing their corrective device.

Both braces and Invisalign are useful for teeth alignment. While the result is comparable, the correction procedure is different. In this article, we discuss the pros and cons of the two options. This will help you decide which would be the best option for you or your child.

Invisalign and lingual braces are rapidly gaining popularity because of their visual benefits. Both corrective appliances stay conveniently hidden. Invisalign is transparent and hardly noticeable, and lingual braces sit on the posterior side of the teeth. The teeth are shifted slowly into position without the patient having to wear bulky metal wires and brackets on the teeth.

Braces vs. Invisalign – Pros and cons

Braces

Braces are the oldest and popular method of correcting teeth positions. They comprise of metal wires and brackets attached to the teeth. During the orthodontic treatment process, the wires will be continually tightened to create a proper bite.

Braces advantages:

• They have been around for long and have a higher number of successful outcomes
• For nonconsenting patients (such as kids), it is the faster option
• Most orthodontists and some dentists offer braces as a corrective option
• Different materials and colors are available based on preferences

Braces drawbacks:

• Braces are usually evident in photographs and smiles
• They are not suitable for patients with poor gum health or pre-existing dental issues
• Diet options are restricted to protect the braces
• Brushing and flossing can be difficult

Invisalign

Invisalign is the recent method for teeth alignment. It comprises of transparent plastic trays built by making impressions or models of the mouth. The tray has to be in your mouth day and night. During the orthodontic treatment, the dentist will give new tighter trays every six weeks.

Invisalign advantages:

• Hardly noticeable and less evident during pictures and conversation
• Trays are removable for brushing, flossing and eating
• Maintaining good oral hygiene is easier
• It costs as much as braces for the regular patients

Invisalign drawbacks:

• For non-consenting patients who would take out the trays, treatment is longer
• Trays can get missing and need replacement, leading to extra costs
• Invisalign is not suitable for patients with severely crooked teeth
• In exceptional cases, the cost can be high, compared to braces

What is the bottom line?

Although knowing the pros and cons of orthodontic treatment options may guide your decision, only a professional can give you the best advice for your condition. Book an appointment with our office today to learn more about the braces vs. Invisalign debate. Each case is unique, and we understand you may have financial factors to consider as well. Our years of experience and expertise will help create a beautiful smile after treatment.

Visit our Milwaukee office to get more information on braces vs. Invisalign at https://www.esdmke.com.

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