SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT ONLINE

Invisalign vs. Braces: Advantages & Disadvantages

Your choice of orthodontic treatment will shape your life experiences for the next several months. Whether you are a teenager looking to adjust your teeth before adulthood or a professional finally getting the tooth alignment you deserve, choosing Invisalign vs. braces will be one of your most important decisions this year.
This article will help you compare and contrast your two options to determine whether braces or Invisalign will give you the best alignment and experience over the upcoming year.

orthodontist checking young girls braces while wearing pink gloves

Are Braces or Invisalign a Better Choice for You?

There are a many different things to consider when it comes to choosing Invisalign or braces. Most importantly, the type of adjustment your teeth need. Let's take a look at each option so you can make the best decision.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign are clear tooth aligners that act like braces but are not visually apparent while wearing them. Invisalign are clear plastic trays that gently push your teeth into the correct alignment. You must wear them at least 22 hours a day to have the optimal effect, but you must remove them to eat and drink anything other than water.

What are Braces? ļ»æ

Braces are a system of brackets and wires that fasten to your teeth and are tightened to pull your teeth into alignment. Moreover, braces are colorful and customizable but are typically visible. Braces are also worn 100% of the time, and you must choose what you eat while wearing braces carefully.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Invisalign

Advantages

Here are some reasons why people may be more inclined to choose Invisalign:

  • Discreetness: The primary benefit of Invisalign is that they are discreet. While they are slightly visible at close range, most people will not notice that you are wearing Invisalign, and they will not appear in photos of you during your adjustment period.
  • Flexibility:  Invisalign can also be used in a wide range of situations, and they do not change your lifestyle in the same way that braces can.
  • Reduced Maintenance and Office Visits:  Invisalign requires minimum maintenance. Keep your teeth and the trays clean while wearing your Invisalign 22 hours daily.

 

Disadvantages

Invisalign does have a few features that might cause you to think twice:
  • Higher Cost:  Invisalign is an advanced product with a higher price than traditional braces.
  • Minor to Moderate Adjustment:  Invisalign are aligner trays only suitable for minor to moderate adjustments. Severe dental adjustments are not ideal for Invisalign correction.
  • Easily Lost or Damaged:  Because they are removable, Invisalign can be easily lost by accident. The trays are also easily damaged and can be stained, which is not ideal for many people.
  • Can't Eat or Drink In the Aligners: You cannot eat food or drink while wearing Invisalign. You must remove the aligners for meals and snacks, then brush your teeth and rinse them before putting them back in quickly.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Braces

Advantages

Here are the advantages of traditional braces:
  • Effectiveness:  Braces are incredibly effective. They have a stronger pull than Invisalign and can act more quickly if you need to adjust quickly.
  • Better for More Complex Orthodontic Cases:  If you have a more severe or complex alignment need, braces can handle this, whereas Invisalign cannot.
  • Cost-Effective Solution: Braces are also more affordable than Invisalign and are available on many insurance plans.
  • ļ»æ Personalization: Y ou can also customize the look of your braces with every dentist visit by replacing your bracket and rubber band colors.

Disadvantages of Braces

Here are what many would consider the downside of having braces:
  • Discomfort: Braces can be potentially more uncomfortable. The brackets and hard pull of the adjustment can leave your mouth feeling sore, and loose wires can be painful.
  • Visible Brackets and Wires:  Most people do not prefer that braces are uniquely visible. Brackets and wires can be seen up close and at a distance. However, tooth-colored brackets and wires can reduce this effect.
  • Frequent Maintenance and Adjustment:  Braces also need adjustment every few weeks so that they will require more frequent trips to the dentist.

Invisalign vs. Braces: Which is Right for You?

Which is the best option for your dental alignment? If you want your aligners to be invisible and are willing to put in the extra effort to keep your aligners clean and safe, then Invisalign is the favored choice. However, braces may be the better choice if you have more severe orthodontics issues or want to eat and drink without brushing your teeth and putting your aligners back in immediately.


Invisalign is ideal for adult professionals and careful teens concerned about appearance. At the same time, braces are the better choice for younger teens and those who prefer a colorful look. Talk to your dentist to determine what is best for your teeth and lifestyle.


Sweet Tooth Pediatric Dentistry can help you determine whether Invisalign or traditional braces are the best solutions for your teeth. Contact us today to book an appointment and consultation.

Schedule Appointment

Book your appointment at one of our Sweet Tooth locations today.

Schedule Appointment

First Time Visit?

There is no need to fear, Sweet Tooth is here! Let us help you ease the worry that can come with visiting the dentist for the first time.

Learn More

Recent Posts

two kids in the bathroom brushing teeth. Sister sitting on counter. Boy standing in front of sink in
29 Apr, 2024
Discover the best toothpaste for kids with our fun guide! Learn why fluoride is important, how to pick toothpaste with the ADA seal, and get tips for all ages. Perfect for parents wanting to make brushing a blast!
what does a pediatric dentist do
26 Feb, 2024
The role of a pediatric dentist can't be understated. If you're wondering what a pediatric dentist does and provides to children, here's some more information that highlights the work they do.
does fluoride whiten teeth
26 Dec, 2023
Fluoride is an important aspect to our dental health. However, because of this, there are many misconceptions and questions about fluoride - like does fluoride whiten teeth?
Share by: