Both braces and Invisalign straighten teeth, but is one better than the other? Here’s what you should know before you choose.

Braces or Invisalign? The choice is yours in consultation with your dentist. But either treatment will give you straighter, healthier teeth within months!

For mild to moderate bite problems and crooked or misaligned teeth, both braces and Invisalign do an effective job. More complex orthodontic corrections may require braces. If you’re deciding between the two treatments, it’s best to speak with your dentist about your unique orthodontic issues and lifestyle preferences.

Braces vs. Invisalign

Both braces and Invisalign work on the same principle of gently shifting your teeth into perfect alignment over time. Invisalign does it with clear aligners, while braces use traditional wires and rubber bands that hold brackets on each tooth. One is not necessarily “better” than the other. Yet there are factors that could make one a better choice for you.

Comfort. Invisalign aligners are custom-fit to your teeth and made of BPA-free plastic that won’t irritate your gums. Your only discomfort may be a slight feeling of pressure as the teeth move into place. Braces can sometimes dig into the gums, causing cuts and irritation, but don’t let this temporary discomfort deter you from braces if that is the best option for your orthodontic problem.

Appearance. Teens and adults prefer the clear plastic Invisalign trays for a more discreet appearance. However, it would be unfair to say all types of braces are noticeable. Today, you can choose less visible behind-the-teeth braces or ceramic braces matched to your tooth color.

Care. Both Invisalign and braces require special care and discipline. Although you can take the aligners out when you eat and drink, you must clean your teeth after every meal and snack. At night, you can brush and floss as you normally would by taking the aligners out. Braces can’t be removed as such, so you must learn how to brush and floss around the brackets to clean decay-causing plaque. To achieve maximum results, aligners must be worn 20 to 22 hours a day, and that could be difficult for teens who may forget to put them back in after eating. Braces, therefore, may be better for people who don’t want the hassle of removing and inserting the trays numerous times a day.

Time. Generally, Invisalign works faster than braces, as Invisalign is recommended for less complex problems. Invisalign can correct orthodontic misalignments in six to 18 months compared to 18 months to three years for braces. It all depends on what you are trying to achieve with the treatment. Both treatments require periodic visits with your orthodontist, although you’ll need fewer appointments with Invisalign.

Food. With Invisalign, you don’t have to change your diet because the trays are removed when you eat. To prevent your braces from breaking, you’ll have to avoid certain foods, such as hard candies or sticky foods. Any damage to the braces could send you to the orthodontist for a repair.

Cost. Both treatments cost about the same. Again, the method you choose ultimately depends on the problem being corrected. Many insurance plans pay for either braces or Invisalign. Check with your insurance plan and dentist on costs before proceeding with treatment. Orthodontic services may be covered by your flexible spending account (FSA) or a health savings account (HSA), too.

Your Perfect Smile

Schedule an appointment at Espire’s Mission Valley location today! Our highly trained dentists will help you decide whether to go with braces or Invisalign, as we’re experts in both methods! Don’t live near our Mission Valley, California office? Find one of our other locations near you.

Mission Valley, CA
8989 Rio San Diego Drive
Suite 170
San Diego, CA 92108