Invisalign vs. Braces: Starting Your Path Toward a Straighter Smile

When meeting with your orthodontist to discuss appropriate treatment for your crooked smile, you may be wondering which solution will lend the best results? While some complex and extensive dental situations do not allow for a choice, your case may allow you to choose how you want to approach treatment. Faced with the option of Invisalign vs. braces, which one is right for you? A local orthodontist is here to break down both so you can feel more confident as you prepare to start your path toward a straighter smile.  

How Invisalign and Traditional Braces Differ

The most obvious difference between these two orthodontic solutions is their appearance. Invisalign is a clear aligner system that uses plastic trays that are virtually transparent and gently shift teeth into position. Because they are removable, you can freely consume the foods and beverages you love without worrying about remnants getting stuck in your braces. Invisalign also tends to produce faster results, which is a great advantage for busy professionals and self-conscious teens.

Traditional braces consist of metal brackets and wires that work together to move teeth into alignment. A tried-and-true solution that has been used for decades, they are frequently viewed as an ideal method of treatment for children and teens, but the truth is many adults find success with metal braces, too.

The Benefits of Invisalign and Metal Braces

Invisalign and metal braces both offer outstanding benefits. There is no wrong answer when choosing how you plan to straighten your smile. Although your orthodontist may recommend one option over the other because of the complexity of your dental issue, you may find that you can choose how you want to move forward. If so, the following benefits of both Invisalign and metal braces can help you decide:

Invisalign

• The clear aligners allow for a more discreet and subtle form of treatment
• You can easily remove your trays before eating or drinking, allowing you to enjoy the foods you love
• It is possible to achieve faster results with Invisalign
• Invisalign aligners are customized to fit your smile comfortably, minimizing the potential for irritation to occur
• Invisalign trays are easy to clean, requiring only a soft-bristled toothbrush, clear soap, and lukewarm water

Traditional Braces

• Metal braces have been used for decades to straighten smiles, giving them a long reputation for producing healthy, beautiful teeth
• They are a great solution if you worry you will forget to reinsert your aligners on a regular basis
• They tend to be more affordable than Invisalign and may be covered by dental insurance
• Traditional braces are capable of fixing complex dental issues that Invisalign cannot

As you contemplate your decision and discuss with your orthodontist, remember that either option will help you achieve a straighter, more perfectly aligned smile. Weighing the benefits will help you decide if Invisalign or metal braces is right for you.

About the Author
Dr. Ronni Bruck earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania before completing her general practice residency at Abington Memorial Hospital. She then chose to complete an orthodontic residency at St. Barnabas Hospital in New York. As an orthodontist in Coatesville, she is pleased to be a part of Chester Country Dental Arts, which is a Gold Status Invisalign provider. Her ability to use traditional braces and Invisalign clear aligners to fix crooked, gapped, or misaligned teeth allows her patients to see straighter, more beautiful smiles in the end. If you are living with a dental problem that only orthodontics can fix, contact us at (610) 383-1600.