Choosing the right kind of alignment equipment for your teeth would depend on many factors. These include the affordability and cost primarily. However, many people also prioritise comfort, ease of use, or aesthetics. There are many points out there and you could consult with your dentist you learn more about your choices.
However, we have kept these points in mind to bring you an informative guide. This could help you save time with the dentist and make an informed decision. So, let’s find out the difference between the Invisalign and traditional braces. In this guide, we will refer to traditional braces as braces. So, let’s begin:
1. The Cost Factor
If you consider the cost factor, then Invisalign braces are going to cost more than low-end braces. There are options available where braces can be cheaper, but not necessarily the best. If you go for high-end braces and Invisalign, they both have a similar price range. So, if you can’t afford costly treatment, traditional braces make sense. Otherwise, Invisalign is probably better. A little more costly than the high-end braces, but still on a similar line.
2. The Treatment Factor
Invisalign and braces are used for fixing physical issues with the teeth. They are great for overbites, crooked teeth, and other similar problems. However, Invisalign is better for low to medium-scale dental alignments.
Braces are preferred for teeth that are too crooked, overcooked or need extensive treatments. That’s the segment where Invisalign won’t help. But other than that, both are quite good.
3. The Social Factor
This one is more about the aesthetic and appearance of the braces and Invisalign. Braces are blatantly obvious. They use wires, and even if they have teeth colour, it is still noticeable. Invisalign is not as easy to notice unless you’re in close proximity and strongly paying attention to a person’s teeth.
How does that help in the social situation?
- You can grow conscious about using braces. Even though it is a universally accepted practice at this point, there’s still an issue with self-esteem and confidence.
- It can impact the way you smile or the way you present yourself. Often, kids and teens also fall prey to teasing and bullying.
So, for aesthetic and social purposes, Invisalign is a better choice.
4. Oral Hygiene And Health Factor
Unfortunately, braces require more diligent care. You also have to avoid eating certain food items or consuming beverages for the braces. Anything that can damage the braces, or get stuck in them is not allowed. It is not easy to clean the braces, either. You will have to brush carefully and not overbrush your teeth. Still, braces are known to have higher chances of causing gum problems or tooth decay than Invisalign.
Invisalign is easy to take out of your mouth. They are not stuck in your mouth, so you can eat or consume almost anything. All you need to do is make sure to clean your mouth, or brush your teeth, after eating and such, to avoid tooth decay and other issues. It is also easier to clean your Invisalign, as you can take them out and wash them properly.
5. The Comfort & Fear Factor
Conventional braces can cause cuts, abrasions and other issues to the mouth, especially for beginners. If you’re not careful and strain your braces too much, you could even break them or cause other forms of injuries. Invisalign uses soft plastic and is very delicate in the mouth. They are safer and don’t cause as many problems.
Many people are afraid of braces because of the entire process of digging a hole in your teeth or gums, and using metal, ceramic, and other wires. Even if there isn’t any pain after the process, people are afraid to get it. On the other hand, Invisalign doesn’t require any such process. They just get the mould of the mouth and you can have it prepared faster than you can imagine.
Who Can Use Invisalign and Braces?
Almost anyone can use either of the options. However, Invisalign is easier to take off and is not advisable for kids. Kids or young teens tend to take them off because of the minor irritation they can feel while Invisalign can do the job. The irritation isn’t as much as the braces, but still there.
If your kid or teen is irresponsible, it is not advisable for them to use that. And if that is not an issue, then Invisalign is the best option. Similarly, braces can be used by anyone, as well. However, they can irritate at the starting days and often lead
The Bottom Line
Braces are known for being cost-effective (the cheaper options, not all), and work great for extreme cases. They can also show faster results because they work continually, unlike removable Invisalign. However, if you look past these factors, like the situation where cost is not an issue, or you need more comfort, less risk, etc., then Invisalign is a better choice.
