You might get confused between Invisalign VS braces by undergoing orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth. Patients always wonder if clear aligners are better than braces, even when they are being proven as one of the best substitutes for traditional braces.
Both devices are FDA-approved and can yield stunning results; it isn’t easy to know the right one.
So, let’s look closer at what you need to know to decide between braces & transparent teeth braces.
What are Aligners?
Transparent braces are thin, clear medical-grade thermoplastic trays designed to fit in your teeth. Patients get a complete set of aligners tuned to correct the orientation of the teeth at the proper position with constant & gentle pressure.
Top Benefits of Invisalign
- Appearances – Transparent braces perfectly fit onto the teeth of the user and are almost invisible from a distance. One of the most important reasons people choose transparent aligners over braces is their discreet style.
- Comfort – Clear aligners fit against teeth and won’t cause cuts or discomfort. Wearers can feel discomfort with teeth repositioning, and clear aligners spare pain inside the mouth.
- Ease of Brushing & Flossing – One of the significant advantages of transparent braces is the ease of removing the mouthpiece to brush & floss normally. There is no need for a lengthy & complicated dental care process involved.
- Zero Risk of Hard or Chewy Foods – Unlike braces wearers, there are no restrictions to avoid hard or chewy foods, such as nuts, popcorn, and bagels. And aligners must be removed before eating the food, so people can eat whatever they want.
- Fewer Visits to Orthodontist – People with clear aligners don’t have to frequently visit an orthodontist and require a visit every 4-6 weeks.
What are Braces?
Braces are metal or ceramic brackets affixed to your teeth, and the wires are threaded through slots in the brackets. Braces are permanently fitted to teeth, unlike aligners that are removable by the patient’s will. The metal wire exerts a constant & gentle pressure on the teeth to be aligned properly.
Top Benefits
- Works for Complex Corrections – Metal braces are the universal treatment that can work for minor to complex cases. Braces are powerful as they adhere directly to each tooth. This results in an incredible smile in the most challenging situations.
- Multiple Options – You can choose multiple options in braces treatment, such as behind teeth (lingual) and ceramic braces for a discreet appearance. However, metal braces are one of the cheapest options that you can choose from.
- Not Easily Removed – A good thing with clear aligners is that they are permanent and require less responsibility. Moreover, removing them before eating or keeping them inside the mouth for at least 22 hours a day is unnecessary.
- Safe to Drink All Beverages – Braces are heat resistant. They won’t stain, so the user can drink coffee, tea, or other beverages all day without hassling or removing the braces or possibly satin attachments.
Transparent Aligners VS Braces – Comparison
| Factors | Braces | Invisalign |
| Treatment Length | Average for 2 years | 6-24 months |
| Removable | No | Yes |
| Best for | Minor, moderate, and complex cases | Minor cases |
| Requirements |
|
|
| Gum Irritation | Yes | No |
| Price | Affordable | Expensive |
| Invisibility | No metal, yes lingual | Yes |
What Hurts the Most? – Transparent Teeth Braces VS Traditional Braces
The treatment of clear aligners is more accessible and less painful than metal braces. Many people have reported discomfort and tenderness from the first few days of wearing the trays.
Braces cause pain while eating, but as you have to remove the transparent braces, there is no chance of pain through them.
However, compared to the agony of metal braces, clear aligners win the battle by causing less pain.
So, which is better?
People have their own needs, wants, and preferences.
Invisalign is one of the best choices for those who want maintenance taken care of and is the only option for those having severe malocclusion. It offers flexibility and the ability to spend hours daily with any equipment in the mouth.
While on the other hand, traditional braces are permanent and don’t need to remove while eating or drinking.
So, whichever side you fall on, the only way forward is to contact a professional orthodontist.
You can contact Mint Dental for the expert & best advice for your dental treatment.
