Invisalign vs. Braces: When to Choose Invisalign

We all want a perfect smile - one that we’ll want to flash every time someone snaps a photo - but most of us weren’t born with perfectly straight teeth.

If you’re considering a teeth straightening treatment, you’re faced with a few options. You’re likely to be tempted by Invisalign, which is substantially less invasive than braces. You won’t have to stop eating popcorn with Invisalign either.

But will Invisalign work for you? Are traditional braces, which have been around for years, a better choice?

At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you choose a treatment that will result in the smile of your dreams. You’ll also want to consider which treatment suits your budget and lifestyle.

Braces and Invisalign are both popular options. They’re well regarded, and orthodontists around the world use both treatments. We’re comparing Invisalign vs. Braces to help you assess when Invisalign is right for you.

What are braces? What is Invisalign?

Braces and Invisalign both have the same goal-- to straighten teeth and improve your oral health. Braces are always administered by an orthodontist, while Invisalign can be administered by an orthodontist, dentist, or elite specialist.

• Braces are metal brackets that are fastened to your teeth with glue. They’re then connected with wires that can be tightened by an orthodontist. Braces have been around for decades, and they’re a tried-and-true way to get a straightened smile.
• Invisalign is made up of two trays, called aligners, which slide over your teeth much like a mouthguard. These aligners are designed to move your teeth over time. Invisalign is meant to be invisible, hence it’s name. Unlike braces, Invisalign does not require an orthodontist. A specialized technician can scan your teeth and provide aligners.

Align Technology, the makers of Invisalign, is a private company with proprietary technology, while braces are configured by an orthodontist.

Do both braces and Invisalign work?

People seek out braces and Invisalign for one reason - they want straight teeth. At the end of the day, it’s not so much about the solution you choose, but the smile you end up with in the end.

Braces and Invisalign have both been proven to result in a straighter smile, as long as patients are compliant.

However, the two treatment options have notable differences.

If you have more complex issues, such as a crossbite or extremely crooked teeth, Invisalign may not be the best option for you. In these cases, braces could be a better choice.

Adults and teenagers alike may be sensitive about their appearance, fearing how they’ll look with traditional braces. Invisalign offers an opportunity to straighten teeth without a “metal mouth.”

People who choose Invisalign need to commit to the treatment. If you don’t wear your aligners for the suggested 22 hours per day for the allotted time period, you won’t get the smile you desire.

Comparing braces vs. Invisalign

Tips for Invisalign success

Invisalign is an excellent teeth straightening option for many people, resulting in smiles worth showing off. However, success depends on you. Here are a few tips for achieving desired results with Invisalign:

Find a specialist you trust

You can get Invisalign from a traditional dentist or orthodontist, but you can also get it from orthodontists who are Invisalign Certified Elite Provider. These providers have the most experience in not only Invisalign but specialize in teeth movement. You want to find a specialist you like and trust, someone who’ll be open and honest with you throughout the process.

Commit to the treatment

Receiving aligners from an orthodontist or Invisalign specialist doesn’t guarantee success. Your follow-through is what will give you a stellar smile.

Sometimes, when people hear they only have to wear Invisalign for 22 hours per day, they think about the two hours they won’t have to wear their aligners. In fact, you need to wear your aligners at all times, except when you’re eating, if you want to achieve success..

Take care of your aligners

Invisalign aligners aren’t cheap, so you’ll need to take good care of them. When you brush your teeth, you should brush your aligners as well. You can clean aligners with Retainer Brite or Invisalign cleaning crystals. When you’re not wearing your aligners, make sure to store them in their case.

Never place aligners in a napkin

It can be tempting to place your aligners in a napkin when you’re eating, especially if you’re out and about with friends. If you do so, you risk losing your aligners. Putting aligners in a napkin is one of the most common ways that people lose them.

Keep aligners away from pets

Pets get into everything, including aligners. Make sure to keep aligners away from any pets, especially dogs, to insure that your aligners stick around for the length of your treatment.

Where to receive treatment for Invisalign

You should only receive treatment from an orthodontist who is an Invisalign Certified Elite Provider. Unlike braces, you won’t need to have an uncomfortable mold taken care of your teeth. Instead, Invisalign uses 3D technology to scan your teeth and deliver aligners that fit your needs.

At Smilebar, we're Orthodontic specialists who are Invisalign Certified Elite Providers. Our latest in 3D technology, faster appointments, and a beautiful boutique are all designed to make you not only love your perfect new smile, but love the experience as well.

Book your free consultation today