smile blog

Which works best: Invisalign, or braces? Let's start by reframing the question. As a potential patient, the most important question to ask when considering your treatment options is “Invisalign vs braces—what will work best for me?”

Depending on an individual's case, braces may be the answer, while for others, Invisalign is the right way to go. Largely, the decision is one your Docbraces orthodontist will help you make based on jaw, bite and teeth and the complexity of your case. However, many people are not even aware that Invisalign is an option, and would be surprised by the number of orthodontic issues that can be fixed with Invisalign. To provide some background on the options, let's look at what each technique has to offer:

First, we need to know how braces work

When we talk about today's braces, we're not referring to the “train track” braces of years ago. Today’s braces are much more comfortable and less noticeable. In general, braces consist of three basic parts:

1. Brackets that are attached to each tooth
2. Bonding or band – the material that attaches the bracket to the tooth
3. The archwire – a thin metal wire that runs from bracket to bracket. In very basic terms, the wire is attached to the bracket, which is attached to the tooth. This wire exerts a light force that causes the teeth to move.

Next we need to know how Invisalign works

This option straightens patient’s teeth without the wires and brackets associated with metal braces, making it especially discreet.

The Invisalign process involves a series of computer-generated, clear, removable aligners worn to straighten the teeth. Each set of aligners gently guides the teeth into place and is worn for approximately two weeks before moving on to the next in the series.

Invisalign vs braces—which is best for you?

Both treatment options—braces or Invisalign—have their pros and cons. For example, sometimes the orthodontic treatment required is too complex to be treated with Invisalign (at least in the beginning).

However, as an Elite Invisalign Provider, Docbraces has special expertise in the Invisalign process, and can therefore treat many moderate to difficult cases using the clear aligners. It can definitely be said that Invisalign is often the perfect solution for those requiring minor to moderate tooth alignment.

Other advantages of Invisalign include:

• The aligners are almost undetectable when worn
• Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic and won’t irritate the inside of the mouth
• The aligners are removable so you can brush, floss and eat as usual

But, as mentioned, Invisalign is not for everyone. For example, one has to be vigilant in wearing their aligners. The temptation to take them out too often or not wear them enough is too much for some. This is why they are recommended more for adults and older teens—you need the dedication to wear the aligners 22 hours a day. Also, there are a small number of orthodontic corrections that are not fixable with Invisalign, but these are the exception.

Whichever treatment you and your Docbraces orthodontist decides on, ultimately, the results will be the same—a healthier smile and a more confident you!

To learn more about the various advantages of braces and Invisalign, download the FREE guide: Braces & Invisalign Guide for Adults