How is Invisalign® different from braces?

Many people associate orthodontic treatment solely with conventional braces. However, there is now another popular alternative on the market: transparent aligners, often known as Invisalign. One treatment option is not inherently superior to another, but one may be preferred over another based on a patient’s lifestyle and treatment objectives.

Straightening your teeth does more than only improve your smile. While it’s a benefit and typically the primary reason individuals opt to straighten their teeth, there’s a lot more going on behind the scenes that will assist your overall dental health. Straight teeth are frequently simpler to clean, which aids in the prevention of cavities. They can also help correct your bite by aligning your teeth and jaw.

What is the difference between Invisalign and braces?

Both Invisalign and braces work to achieve the same goal: straight teeth and better oral health. So, what distinguishes them? The fundamental difference between them is in the way they straighten your teeth. If you’re considering Invisalign, then you might be curious about how it’s different from braces. The differences are more than just cosmetic – they go to the root of why some people may prefer one option over the other.

Invisalign®

Invisalign uses clear aligners that are virtually invisible when worn by patients during their day-to-day activities. They also allow you to eat what you want without affecting your treatment! The foundation of Invisalign allows patients to wear braces discreetly since they are designed to be invisible. Invisalign employs BPA-free plastic aligner trays to gently and silently shift your teeth. As this plastic is smooth and pleasant, wearing the trays is a breeze. Rather than a mould, Invisalign uses a 3-D scan of your teeth to create aligner trays that are precisely the appropriate fit.

  • Aligners are meant to be virtually unnoticeable due to their thin and transparent trays.
  • When switching to a new set of aligners, you may experience discomfort, but this is easily controlled.
  • Patients should continue to brush and floss as usual.
  • It is critical to avoid fizzy drinks and sports drinks when using aligners. Drinking any of the mentioned beverages might cause stains and tooth decay.

Braces

Braces use metal brackets to hold teeth in place, which can often be uncomfortable for patients when they wear them at night or while eating certain foods. This is what most people envision when they think of having braces. Each tooth’s enamel is bonded using metal brackets. Metal wires are then positioned between the brackets to shape and reshape your teeth gradually. The wires placed on the bracket can occasionally be fashioned to match the color of your enamel, making them less noticeable.

  • Although braces come in various styles, including stainless steel, tooth-colored ceramic, gold-colored, and braces that go behind the teeth, other features such as rubber bands and wires will still be visible.
  • Braces may irritate oral tissue and cause discomfort when fitted or adjusted, but the pain is minimal, and you will soon forget you have them on.
  • Brushing and flossing regularly is essential to keep braces clear of food particles and plaque so that germs do not harm tooth enamel.
  • A patient with braces should avoid hard, gritty, or sticky meals since they might damage your wires and/or brackets and reduce the efficacy of your therapy.

Schedule a free consultation for braces or Invisalign in Richmond, Texas

Both are excellent orthodontic treatment choices; Invisalign and Braces are great options for achieving a healthy, happy smile. While each has its own set of benefits, they both provide consistent, precise movement of your teeth to enhance your bite, smile, and confidence. Your Orthodontist will be able to advise you on the best approach based on your treatment objectives and lifestyle.

Straightening your teeth to improve your smile and general dental health is profound. If you’re unsure whether Invisalign or braces are better for you or your child, talk to an expert family orthodontist in Richmond, Texas, today! Schedule a free consultation. Learn more on our blog!