Let’s Get it Straight: Braces vs Invisalign

You know it’s time to get your teeth straightened. But did you know you have options? Traditional braces have been around for hundreds of years. But in more recent years, the popularity of Invisalign and other clear aligners has grown significantly. We know that making the best decision as you or a loved one begins their journey to a straighter smile can be difficult. We want to give it to you straight!

Advantages of Braces

• Better Suited for More Significant Alignment Issues
  Everyone has unique dental complications; mild crowding or crooked teeth can be treated with clear aligners. While underbites, crossbites, overbites, and more complex alignment complications are better solved with traditional braces.
• Possibility of Better Results
  The combination of bands, wires, and brackets create more pressure when pushing teeth into desired positions. It is hard for Invisalign to mimic that same force making it less effective in some cases.

Disadvantages of Braces

• More Consultations Are Necessary
  Patients who choose this route are usually required to make a monthly visit to their dental office. Even the best orthodontist will need to monitor progress and make adjustments.
• Comfort
  While both options can feel a bit uncomfortable at first, cuts to the inner lip and tongue are more often seen with braces.

Advantages of Invisalign

• Removable
  The fact that it is removable means that adjusting your diet isn’t necessary. Braces require you to avoid sticky and hard food choices.
• Objectively More Aesthetically Pleasing
  Rocking braces may be your thing; keep owning it! But generally, most people prefer the look of clear aligners because they are basically invisible.

Disadvantages of Invisalign

• Inconvenience
  While giving up some of your favorite foods may not be necessary. Consistently removing your Invisalign trays before digging in can become an inconvenience. Remembering to put them back in can also add to this disadvantage.
• Extra Care is Required
  Given the material used, this option requires a little extra care. Clear aligners are more prone to being damaged or lost. The trays can also develop stains.

We know making such an important decision can be overwhelming even after having all this information, but you’re not alone. If you are in New Braunfels, Seguin, Canyon Lake, or San Marcos, TX, let our best orthodontists at Sapphire Creek Dental give you an honest consultation. We will answer any questions you may have and help you take that first step on your journey to a straighter smile.