Braces and Invisalign are both popular options used to correct problems with teeth, and with aesthetics often being a factor in choosing them, you may wonder which is the better choice for you. We’ll dive into clear braces vs. Invisalign below, addressing what they offer and how Dr. Katie Orr can help give you a winning smile.
Understanding Clear Braces and Invisalign
Clear braces, also known as ceramic braces, function similarly to metal braces, but they are designed to blend in and not be noticed. While they have their benefits, you need to limit food and drinks that easily stain. Additionally, clear braces may be more prone to breakage, which is why hard, crunchy, or sticky foods should also be avoided.
Invisalign, on the other hand, is quite different from braces. It uses clear aligner trays to move teeth into position, which can be removed when patients want to eat or brush their teeth. The aligners are designed to be replaced every one to two weeks at home, whichever is directed by the dentist, while clear braces, on the other hand, need to be adjusted at least once a month by a dentist to keep pressure on the teeth.
Who is Invisalign for?
Invisalign is suited for anyone looking to improve their smile, ranging from teens to adults. More specifically, it’s a good fit for:
- People looking for convenience and the ability to remove aligners for drinking, brushing, and eating
- Individuals seeking comfort and convenience
- Those with crowded teeth, underbites, overbites, and cross bites
- Individuals with minor relapses after traditional braces
- Those with an aesthetic preference for virtually invisible aligners
An Overview of Ceramic Braces vs. Invisalign Benefits
One of the biggest things to note when comparing Invisalign vs. clear braces is how each impacts a person’s everyday life. While you will have to follow rules for each type of treatment, Invisalign doesn’t require you to make any dietary changes but rather to simply remove the clear aligners before consuming food.
In addition to having the freedom to eat and drink what you’d like, other benefits of choosing Invisalign over braces include:
- Invisibility – With Invisalign’s clear tray design, they are barely noticeable.
- Removability – You can and should remove your trays when enjoying food and liquids other than water to keep them looking their best.
- Comfort – Invisalign trays stop at the gums for mouth comfort. While there may be some initial discomfort when switching to a new tray, that will subside. The more you wear them, the more you’ll get used to them.
- Reliability – Invisalign has a long and successful history as a top aligner tray brand.
- Success – Invisalign treats numerous types of bites, having earned a positive reputation from patients.
Ceramic Braces vs. Invisalign FAQs
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign uses a series of plastic aligners that will gradually straighten your teeth over time. Detailed 3D images of your teeth will be taken in order to create a plan that is personalized to you. When coming to our office, the typical process entails:
- An initial visit
- Scanning
- Placement of buttons or attachments
- Check-up appointments
- Maintenance
How long do braces or Invisalign take to work?
When it comes to clear braces vs. Invisalign, Invisalign tends to work faster provided that the patient is disciplined about wearing them consistently. This is due to the fact that while braces focus on individual teeth, Invisalign works to apply pressure on all teeth. The duration of Invisalign use depends on the patient, but in most cases the timetable is about 12-18 months.
What does the maintenance look like?
Aside from having you come in every few months, we’ll just let the aligners do their thing. Some tips to remember when using clear aligners include:
- There’s no special process needed for brushing or flossing your teeth
- The more you wear your aligners, the less they will hurt
- Brushing your aligners will keep them clean and bright
- Your aligners should be worn for 22 hours a day or as much as possible. It’s expected to take them out for eating or brushing, but that’s about it.
Meanwhile, clear braces may be harder to keep clean, as you’re unable to remove them. Food can get stuck in the brackets and wires, which can lead to a higher cavity rate. You also may need to avoid certain foods with braces such as gum, chips, or popcorn. Lastly, with braces, you’ll find that there are more visits required as your orthodontist will need to make adjustments regularly.
Transform Your Smile with Dr. Katie Orr’s Invisalign Treatment
From routine cleaning to more involved procedures, Dr. Katie Orr is here to make you feel welcome and comfortable during your care. We want to ensure that you’re satisfied with the end result, and that you feel totally confident with your new smile. We’re here to create an enjoyable experience and ensure you feel comfortable with your Invisalign process.
By choosing Dr. Katie Orr for Invisalign treatment, you’ll reap a variety of benefits, including:
- Experience – Katie Orr has over 15 years of experience in the dental industry in addition to her training and education. Her expertise shines in the way she delivers care, providing you with much more than just a routine trip to the dentist.
- Calm environment – Our office is designed with patients in mind and a desire to create a comfortable space the second you walk in. While receiving treatment from us, you can relax with neck pillows while either listening to music or watching your favorite movies on Netflix.
- Superior care – We offer comprehensive services including digital X-rays, routine cleaning, oral surgery, cosmetic dentistry, and more. We believe everyone deserves superior dental care, which is why we offer competitively priced services, flexible payment options, and the use of state-of-the-art equipment.
Hear Why Our Patients Love Invisalign
Kids and adults love visiting our office, and we are excited to share their experiences with you. If you’re interested in Invisalign and want to learn more about the environment and experiences others have had, check out these testimonials from our patients.
Contact Us to Learn More About Clear Braces vs. Invisalign
If you’re still evaluating Invisalign vs. ceramic braces, be sure to reach out to our team to learn more. We look forward to hearing from you!
