Invisalign or Braces: Which Orthodontic Option Is Better?
Many adults and teens have turned to Invisalign® to straighten crooked teeth and close gaps. It’s a very popular treatment option, with millions of patients already helped worldwide. Yet what about braces? While Invisalign is relatively newer, does it really offer superior results to traditional braces?
Dr. Bruce J. Wilderman and his team in Doylestown, PA, would like to compare the advantages of Invisalign and braces. This will help you learn why clear aligners are so prevalent and why braces are still around as well.
Why Invisalign Is Popular with Adults and Teens
There are four reasons why Invisalign has become so popular since the company was founded in 1997.
- Easy to Use - Just wear your clear aligner trays approximately 22 hours a day. Remove them while eating, and brush them gently to keep them clean. Replace the old aligner after two weeks with the next one in the sequence.
- Difficult to Detect - The clear plastic is virtually invisible, meaning you won’t have to feel self-conscious while you get orthodontic care.
- No Brackets and Wires - Since there are no brackets and wires involved, you won’t experience irritation or difficulty with normal oral hygiene during the course of Invisalign treatment.
- No Dietary Restrictions - You can enjoy your favorite foods during the full length of your Invisalign treatment. This isn’t the case with braces.
When Are Braces a Better Option Than Invisalign?
Despite the notable advantages listed above, there are times when traditional braces are recommended instead.
Braces Are Ideal for Severe Tooth Misalignment
Major issues with malocclusion may be too difficult to treat with Invisalign alone, necessitating orthodontic care with braces and possibly other devices. Even though modern Invisalign treatment uses attachments in a similar fashion as brackets, these may not be quite as effective as traditional brackets. Invisalign also lacks the supplemental use of rubber bands to aid in alignment a la traditional braces.
During a visit to our Doylestown dental practice, we will evaluate the alignment and condition of your teeth and jawbone and then determine the ideal course of action.
Can I Get Hybrid Treatment That Combined Braces and Invisalign?
Yes, it is possible to combine braces and Invisalign, but hybrid braces/Invisalign treatment is somewhat rare. Braces would be worn first to address major alignment issues, with the second leg of treatment handled with Invisalign aligners.
One of the advantages of hybrid braces/Invisalign treatment is that patients would wear traditional braces for only a limited amount of time. The remainder of their orthodontic realignment would be completed using clear aligners.
Which Orthodontic Treatment Option Is Right for Me?
It really depends on the nature of your malocclusion and the position of your teeth. Seeing your dentist or having your smile evaluated by an orthodontist is generally the best option for determining the optimal treatment.
Learn More About Your Options
Contact Our Practice Today
Both Invisalign and braces are effective treatment options for malocclusion. To find out which one may be better for you and your needs, contact our Doylestown dental office today. We look forward to answering your questions and addressing your concerns.
