Differences Between Invisalign® Braces and Traditional Braces

Differences Between Invisalign® Braces and Traditional Braces

Sep 01, 2020

Orthodontics has continually been a source of hope for patients, restoring their smiles into something beautiful. However, orthodontics does not exist for the sake of smile beautification. Attempts to straighten teeth are purposeful for the optimal functionality of the mouth.

Today, however, orthodontics seems to cross paths with cosmetic dentistry. More people are finding interest in beautifying their teeth, and sometimes that men’s going through the process of orthodontics. Luckily, there is accommodation for such needs in orthodontics, based on the teeth aligners you use.

What Are Teeth Aligners?

They are oral appliances used in orthodontics to realign malpositioned teeth. Usually, aligners come in different types, to accommodate the varying needs of patients. Teeth aligners are the only way to reposition teeth in the mouth.

In modern dentistry, there are more people concerned about the appearance of the smiles than have ever been before. This has necessitated the use of different teeth aligners to achieve the desired goals, with attention to the preferences of patients. Knowing when to use specific teeth aligners is a skill that orthodontists in One Dental Care have, ensuring you get the best experience in your treatment.

Invisalign Aligners VS. Traditional Braces

Traditional braces are the most common type of teeth aligners. They have severally been used over the years, and are still in use today. They feature a metal bracket held together by metallic wires.

Invisalign® braces are much different from traditional braces. Instead of the metal brackets and wires, Invisalign uses a plastic-like material to fashion a tray of teeth aligners. The aligners are clear, which is why they are sometimes called invisible teeth aligners. They are placed over teeth, fully covering the teeth to initiate the movement thereof.

Core Differences Between Invisalign and Traditional Braces

The two cannot be that different from each other. The only similarity between Invisalign and traditional braces is that they are used to realign teeth. Other than that, their differences are marked by some of the following aspects:

  • Usage – a dentist in Billerica MA will tell you that they are both used to realign malpositioned teeth. However, as far as differences go, the two are used for different situations. Generally, traditional braces can be used for any kind of orthodontic problem, whether mild or complex. With invisible aligners, however, only patients with mild and moderate misalignment issues can benefit from them. Clear aligners are not fit from correcting complex orthodontic conditions.
  • Appearance – having that Invisalign braces feature clear plastic-like material, they are very different from the appearance of metal braces. One of the reasons people choose Invisalign for their treatment is that they have an aesthetic appearance. This way, even when you undergo your treatment you can still showcase your smile.
  • Removability – traditional braces are more or less permanent until you are done with your treatment. You cannot remove them as flexibly as you would want. With invisible aligners, the story changes. The aligners are different. Ideally, you should not eat with your aligners on your mouth. This allows you the flexibility to eat whatever you want without the restrictions of the teeth aligners. However, there is a catch to it where you have to have your invisible aligners in your mouth for about 20-22 hours every day. This means that you are free to remove your aligners, but not for extended periods.
  • Adjustability – while both teeth aligners are adjustable, the technique is different. The traditional aligners are adjusted by tightening the wires holding the metal brackets. The braces, however, remain in your mouth. Invisalign works differently since you have to replace the tray of aligners for a new one every couple of months. Every new tray you get will feel tighter than the previous one, to continue to shifting process. The number of aligners you use during your treatment will depend on the treatment plan that your orthodontist developed at the beginning of your treatment.
  • Comfort levels – with both aligners, you can expect your gums and jaw to be sore because the teeth are being repositioned. However, as far as comfort is concerned, Invisalign aligners have been termed as more comfortable than traditional aligners. The plastic-like tray is smooth on your mouth which minimizes friction and accidents that might hurt your gums. With traditional braces, you may not have this luxury, as the metal brackets may take some getting used to.
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