Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces: Which is Right for You?

Are you frustrated with your crooked teeth? Do you dream of having perfectly straight teeth? Many adults wish they could straighten their teeth but don’t want to wear metal wires and brackets for years on end. Luckily, there is another option for straightening your teeth.

Dental Brace Explained

A dental brace is a device that is affixed to your teeth using metal brackets and wires. The braces work by applying gentle pressure to your teeth, causing them to move into their proper alignment over time.

There are different types of braces depending on your treatment goals. Metal braces are the most common type of braces used today. They are comprised of small metal brackets that are affixed to each tooth with an adhesive before being connected with a thin metal wire. Each wire is held in place by a small rubber O-ring that fits inside the mouth. Clear ceramic braces are hybrid of metal and clear aligners. They blend the appearance of metal with clear aligners by using clear ceramic brackets instead of metal ones. However, the archwires and elastic bands are still made of metal. Damon braces are clear braces that use self-ligating brackets that do not require the use of rubber bands. Instead, the wires are held in place by the brackets themselves. Both types of these clear braces are more discreet than traditional braces. Lingual braces are just like traditional metal or clear braces, except that they are placed on the back side of the teeth instead of the front side.

Braces are used to correct a variety of common dental problems, including crooked teeth, an overbite or underbite, overcrowded teeth, gaps between teeth, and misaligned jaw. Patients of all ages can benefit from wearing braces, whether they are a child whose teeth are just beginning to grow or an adult who has suffered the effects of years of poor dental care. 

Invisalign Explained

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign does not utilize metal brackets or wires to straighten your teeth. Instead, they consist of a series of clear aligners that you wear over your teeth to gradually shift them into place. Because they’re clear and discreet, most people won’t even know you’re wearing them!

Not only are the aligners invisible, but they’re removable as well. This means you can take them out for short periods of time – such as eating your favorite foods – and put them back in afterward. This is one of the biggest benefits of wearing Invisalign compared to fixed braces, as you don’t have to change your eating habits as you do with traditional braces. The downside is that you can’t take them out for very long periods and must wear them at least 22 hours a day in order to fully benefit from your treatment. However, this won’t be a problem for most people since they’re so easy to use.

Invisalign is also a great option for adults who want to straighten their teeth. Since Invisalign is so easy to remove and insert, it’s ideal for busy professionals who want to get their smile on track without disrupting their life too much. In addition, because the aligners are clear, people are less likely to notice you’re wearing them than if you were to wear traditional braces. This can be a huge advantage when it comes to things like your career and even dating!

Orthodontic Treatment Options

In the past, metal braces were the only option for orthodontic treatments. Now, there are several other options available for patients who don’t want to wear traditional braces. At Carroll Orthodontics, our 0rthodontist in Stevensville, MT, and orthodontist in Hamilton, MT, offer both traditional braces and Invisalign® treatment. Both treatment options help patients have straighter teeth and a beautiful smile. Here are some things to consider regarding Invisalign and traditional braces to see which one is right for you.

One of the main differences between Invisalign and traditional braces is their appearance. Although the traditional brackets are more noticeable than the clear, removable aligners that are created specifically for your mouth with Invisalign, there are a few more discreet options available for those who are concerned about the appearance of their orthodontic appliances. For example, you can choose ceramic braces or self-ligating braces that are tooth-colored as well.

One benefit of choosing Invisalign over traditional braces is that your treatment is custom-made for you. Because of this, the treatment is completely personalized to fit your teeth and correct your bite issues, making it more comfortable than other treatments. You won’t have to worry about wires or rubber bands that can irritate the inside of your mouth or make you want to discontinue the treatment plan early. This is because the aligners are smooth and comfortable and are easy to remove when you eat or brush your teeth. Because the aligners are removable, you can maintain good oral hygiene during treatment as well. With traditional braces, it can be harder to brush and floss your teeth properly because food can become trapped in the wires and brackets, causing tooth decay and gum disease over time.

Get in touch with Carroll Orthodontics at 1116 W Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840, or 3920 US Hwy 93, Stevensville, MT 59870, or call (406) 363-2200 to learn more.