How to Decide: Invisalign or Braces?

Invisalign vs Braces in Porter Ranch

Introduction

Hey Porter Ranch families! Are you trying to decide between Invisalign and braces? Let’s dive into what they are, who provides the treatment, their differences in experience and cost, and compare their pros and cons.

Invisalign

Invisalign is the leading clear aligner system used to move teeth with removable trays that your orthodontist designs to address your bite, smile, and facial imbalances. Similar to braces, Invisalign uses small attachments that the orthodontist temporarily glues to your teeth. The orthodontist designs the attachment size, shape, and placement to maximize the efficiency of the trays and enhance your smile.

When choosing an orthodontist, it’s essential to ask about their familiarity with Invisalign because it’s a newer technology in the field. Although some general dentists provide Invisalign treatment, unlike orthodontists, they may lack the focus and expertise, so results can vary. If you are considering Invisalign, we recommend seeing us for a free consultation.

Treatment Details

Invisalign gradually moves your teeth over time using plastic trays. At our office, the time and cost for Invisalign and braces are the same. We make our recommendations based on what works best for your case and lifestyle. Factors like specific malocclusion, lifestyle, patient preference, and doctor experience can significantly influence the choice. Let’s talk about braces next.

Braces

Braces have been the traditional option for aligning teeth and correcting bites for centuries. They date back to Ancient Egypt, where gold wires were used to hold loose teeth together for royalty. In the early 20th century, Edward H. Angle systematized the classification of bites, which we still use today, even though technology for braces treatment has advanced significantly.

Braces come in various shapes, colors, and materials. From traditional metal braces to ceramic clear braces to digitally designed custom braces 3D printed to precisely fit your teeth, braces are temporarily glued to your teeth, and wires are used to gradually straighten them. The wire is held in place with small elastics in various colors, which patients can change at each visit.

Braces Treatment

Braces are an excellent choice for people who want a more hands-off treatment since they are always working. However, one challenge with Invisalign is also its main advantage: you can remove them. If you’re not disciplined about wearing Invisalign trays for 22 hours a day, your teeth won’t move. Tooth movement requires consistent light force, making braces a reliable and popular option for many years.

Moreover, recent advances in braces include 3D scanning, custom appliances, and new materials that make braces and wires more comfortable. Therefore, braces are suitable for kids, teens, and adults who need that extra help to straighten their teeth.

Comparing Invisalign and Braces

Both Invisalign and braces are tools to achieve the same goal. The difference comes down to your cooperation and your orthodontist’s skill in achieving a beautiful result.

Invisalign

• Pros: Clear, cosmetic, and comfortable. Less frequent appointments and fewer emergency visits. Digital planning. Easier than braces if you’re traveling.
• Cons: If not worn, they don’t work. Uses tooth-colored attachments to move teeth. Attachments can be as large as a brace, though tooth-colored.

Braces

• Pros: Always working. You can change the colors. Custom appliances can be made. They can be clear and are more comfortable than before.
• Cons: Require more frequent visits. Wires and brackets can sometimes irritate cheeks. Can be more challenging to clean.

Conclusion

If you’re interested in orthodontic treatment, please schedule a visit with us in Porter Ranch for a free consultation. We’re excited to meet you!