Both Invisalign® and traditional metal braces work to achieve the same goal: straight teeth and better oral health. The fundamental difference between them is in the way they straighten your teeth. Which is preferable for you will be determined by your needs and tastes.
Metal Braces
Each tooth's enamel is affixed with metal brackets to create braces. The next step is to place metal wires between the brackets to gradually reshape and resize your teeth. Sometimes the wires are made to match your enamel's colour, which can help them blend in better. In most cases, patients can choose from a variety of colours for their braces to add some fun.
It can be difficult to know whether or not metal braces are the best option for you, so we've put together a list of what may make metal braces a good option:
Not Removable: Metal braces will stay in place. This is beneficial for individuals who are concerned about losing their trays (which is what Invisalign comes with) or who do not want to change their trays regularly.
Cleaning: Brushing your teeth is generally less of a hassle with braces. All it should require is regular brushing and flossing (twice a day brushing and once a day flossing is the recommendation), the same as if you didn't have them.
Used for Complex Issues: Generally speaking, traditional braces are more likely to succeed in treating patients with more complex dental issues.
Traditional metal braces are generally not recommended for someone who participates in contact sports because the metal from the braces has the potential to cause tissue damage if you are struck in the mouth. This is one of the main reasons they may not be an option for some people.
Invisalign
The Invisalign aligner trays are made of BPA-free plastic and are designed to shift your teeth gradually. Wearing the trays shouldn't be too difficult because the plastic should be smooth and pleasant. Rather than a mould, Invisalign uses a 3-D image of your teeth to create trays with a custom fit.
Like with metal braces, you might not know if Invisalign clear aligners are the best option for you, so we've put together a list of the benefits of using Invisalign:
Removable: Unlike braces, Invisalign clear aligners are removable. In fact, you're allowed to remove them for two hours a day, usually. This is generally during meal times so you don't get food stuck inside the aligners.
Near-Invisible: Adults who have wanted to straighten their teeth for a long time but have been put off by the appearance of metal braces may consider Invisalign. Many individuals may not even notice that a patient is wearing Invisalign. Your treatment is a closely guarded secret, and you can share the results later.
Treatment Time: Patients should be wearing their clear aligners for about 20-22 hours per day for 6 to 18 months. Of course, this will vary with each individual patient.
Patients with bridgework, difficulty biting back teeth, or the need to rotate canines or premolars may not be good candidates for Invisalign clear aligners.
