Invisalign or Braces: Picking the Right Path to a Better Smile

If you’re dissatisfied with the crooked smile you see in the mirror each day, the good news is you don’t have to live with it. More and more adults are getting orthodontic treatment for straighter, prettier teeth. While some choose to wear traditional metal braces, others prefer Invisalign as a less conspicuous, more convenient treatment. Which one is right for you? Here are the pros and cons of each option for you to weigh.

Traditional Braces: Pros and Cons

Everyone knows about the metal wires and brackets used by traditional braces. These appliances continuously apply pressure to move the teeth into a desired position.

Braces can be used for any number of orthodontic treatments, regardless of the difficulty; they can address multiple issues at once and can be used for more extensive changes than Invisalign. For those concerned about appearances, there’s the option of lingual or ceramic braces that have the same benefits of traditional braces but are far less noticeable.

However, braces also have several disadvantages beyond simple aesthetics. The wires can make it more difficult to brush and floss effectively, making tooth decay more likely. There are also several diet restrictions – particularly regarding hard or sticky foods – that you’ll need to follow. Finally, braces generally require more frequent appointments than Invisalign.

Invisalign: Pros and Cons

An Invisalign treatment employs several see-through trays that are each worn for about two weeks at a time. The trays can be removed during meals and while brushing your teeth.

With Invisalign, you don’t need to worry about appearances; people will only see your smile as it improves. From a practical standpoint, the removeable trays won’t get in the way while eating or brushing; you can enjoy your favorite foods while easily maintaining excellent oral hygiene. You’ll also need far fewer appointments; you’ll only need to come in every six to eight weeks to make sure your treatment is progressing as planned.

With that said, the success of Invisalign depends largely on the patient’s discipline; if you keep taking your aligners out unnecessarily or forget to put them back in after eating, it could negatively affect treatment time. Additionally, some patients might find removing their trays to consume anything other than water to be inconvenient. And of course, there’s the fact that in some cases, Invisalign simply can’t make all of the corrections that traditional braces can.

So Which One’s Right for Me?

Each patient has unique circumstances to consider. In general, traditional braces are preferable for kids who lack the discipline to wear the trays as well as patients with complex orthodontic issues. For adults and teens with less severe cases, Invisalign can be the less restrictive, more image-friendly option. Talk with your dentist about your situation; they can help you find the best way to improve your smile.

About the Practice

At STEC Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, Drs. Steven Stec, CJ Stec and Jacob Stines see Grand Island patients of all ages and make creating a comfortable environment their priority. They offer Invisalign to help patients with crowded, crooked, gapped or misaligned teeth regain their confidence. To schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (308) 382-4440.