Do you crave a perfectly straight set of pearly whites that you can flash without hesitation? If so, you’ll need to undergo an orthodontic procedure to shift your teeth into optimal positions.
You’ll need to choose the right orthodontic treatment to ensure you achieve the best results - but with differing alignment procedures on offer, how do you know which is right for you?
Throughout this insightful blog, our seasoned dental professionals provide a detailed exploration and comparison of the two most popular orthodontic treatments available to help you decide which path is right for you.
Keep reading to discover the verdict of Invisalign versus braces.
What Is Invisalign?
Hugely popular worldwide, Invisalign orthodontic treatment is a revolutionary procedure that utilises a series of removable custom aligner trays to straighten your teeth.
Here’s how it works:
- After a consultation with your Invisalign dentist to decide whether this treatment is suitable for you, your smile journey will start.
A digital scan will be taken using the iTero scanner, which creates a 3D model of your teeth to show the exact movements required to gain an aligned set of teeth. This will help to create your bespoke treatment plan and custom aligners.
- You’ll then be provided with your first set of Invisalign aligners, which you’ll need to wear 20-22 hours a day and only remove your tray at mealtimes or when brushing your teeth.
- After 1-2 weeks, depending on your alignment issues, you’ll be instructed by your orthodontist to swap your existing aligners for new ones. The subtle difference in each new set of clear trays gradually shifts your teeth into new and more desirable positions over time. This cycle will continue until you’ve achieved your smile goals and the treatment timeline ends.
- Afterwards, you’ll be provided with an Invisalign retainer to wear at night while you sleep to ensure your rejuvenated smile stays straight.
What are traditional braces?
Traditional braces, also known as fixed braces, are fixed orthodontic appliances consisting of a series of brackets and wires that are bonded to the surface of your teeth.
Braces are designed to rectify numerous alignment issues, including protruding, gapped, crooked, or crowded teeth. Additionally, they can also be utilised to fix bite problems, such as overbites, underbites, or crossbites.
In the past, braces were typically made from metal and were referred to as metal braces. However, thanks to developments in orthodontics, they’re now available as ceramic tooth-coloured brackets or clear acrylic, giving them a more subtle appearance.
So, what does traditional brace treatment look like?
Your orthodontist will examine your teeth, jaw, and bite and take X-rays, photographs, and impressions. If any oral hygiene concerns are found, such as gum disease, this will need to be treated before orthodontic treatment can start.
From this, your bespoke treatment plan will be created, outlining how long you’ll need to wear braces to achieve optimal results.
You’ll then return to our dental practice to have your brace fitted. Here, the teeth are cleaned and prepped before a series of brackets are fixed to the front of each tooth. An archwire is then threaded through the brackets and secured.
Every 6-8 weeks, you’ll revisit us so your orthodontist can tighten the wires to shift your teeth gradually.
Then, after your teeth have finally reached their ideal position, your brace will be removed, leaving you with a long-lasting smile that you’ll want to show off! You’ll also be given a custom retainer to ensure your newly aligned teeth stay straight.
Invisalign versus braces - the key differences
Invisalign | Braces | |
|---|---|---|
How they appear | Invisalign trays boast discreet teeth straightening. | While braces can be tooth-coloured and more inconspicuous than in the past, they can still be seen. |
Comfort | Invisalign is considered to be more comfortable as the aligners are made from smooth plastic. | Dental braces can cause a dull ache after the wires have been tightened. Wires can also catch on the gums, but this can be alleviated with brace wax. |
Maintenance | As Invisalign trays are removable, you need to commit to keeping them in for 20-22 hours a day. | Braces are fixed to your teeth which removes the responsibility of maintaining the treatment. |
Cost | Prices range from £4,250 onwards - costs vary depending on your alignment issues. | Just over £3,200 on average. This depends on the materials used and the complexity of your case. |
Treatment time | 12-18 months typically. | 12-24 months but this could stretch to 3 years if your misalignment is severe. |
Which option is best for you?
Deciding between Invisalign or braces can be difficult, but you should consider the following:
- Lifestyle - If you want to gain straighter teeth as inconspiciously as possible, Invisalign could be the perfect option for you.
- Severity of misalignment - If your alignment issues are very complex, traditional braces will be recommended by your dental professional. Invisalign isn’t recommended for extreme misalignment.
Self-discipline - If you know that keeping the clear plastic aligner trays in and remembering to remove them to eat will be an issue, you may be better suited to fixed braces.
Book a consultation for teeth straightening today
At The Mayhill, our dental specialists can help you to make the right choice for your smile.
We have a team of highly qualified dentists and orthodontists, all of whom boast an impressive record of achieving excellent teeth straightening results for patients across South Wales.
To book your consultation for Invisalign or braces, why not call the practice today on 0160 071 2020 or enquire using our online contact form? We’ll then schedule an appointment that works for you.