Invisalign vs Braces: Which One’s For You?

Choosing between fixed braces and Invisalign can be confusing for many patients. Because the two serve a similar purpose (gradually shifting your teeth into the correct position), it’s difficult to know which one is right for you. We’re here to break down how braces and Invisalign differ, and when each option makes sense.

In Summary

• Invisalign and braces can treat a number of the same misalignments.
• Invisalign is suited to mild and moderate cases, not severe or complex ones.
• Key decision factors include appearance, comfort, removability and treatment time.
• Working with a specialist orthodontist can guide your treatment plan with expert, individualised care.

What’s the difference between Invisalign and braces?

• Invisalign uses a series of removable, clear plastic aligners to gradually shift your teeth. The aligners are changed every 1-2 weeks to continue your development.

• Braces – both metal and ceramic use fixed brackets and wires that are regularly adjusted by your orthodontist to continually correct the position of your teeth.

How they compare across key decision factors

Appearance

Invisalign is a virtually invisible, discreet treatment. Metal braces are more visible, but ceramic fittings reduce the appearance of the brackets.

Comfort

Invisalign is considered more comfortable in many cases because it does not require wire or brackets, while braces cause some initial soreness and irritation while your mouth adjusts.

Removability

Invisalign can be removed for eating, cleaning and during sports. Braces are fixed for the duration of treatment, removed by your orthodontist once your plan is complete.

Treatment suitability

Invisalign suits mild to moderate cases and depends on motivated patients who will wear their aligners consistently (20-22 hours a day). Braces can handle a wider range of cases, including more severe or complex misalignment.

Maintenance and hygiene

Invisalign aligners require cleaning every time you remove them to eat or drink, and depend on the patient maintaining oral hygiene before putting them back in. Braces also require careful cleaning around the brackets.

Treatment time

The treatment time for both Invisalign and braces is broadly similar, but both are determined by case complexity and patient compliance (particularly with Invisalign, where you must commit to wearing the aligners for a large portion of the day and night).

Which is better for teenagers vs adults?

Teenagers

Braces are very common amongst teenagers, but many teens might prefer the discreet nature of Invisalign. However, the success of Invisalign depends on compliance with wearing the trays for 20-22 hours a day and cleaning as necessary.

Adults

Similarly, adults may like the more subtle appearance of Invisalign and can commit to wearing the aligners regularly and maintaining the cleaning required. It depends on the severity of the case.

Which is better for complex cases?

Braces may be better suited to complex cases such as:

• Severe crowding
• Significant bite issues
• Skeletal problems

This is because fixed braces offer the precision and consistent, ongoing movement required to help with these issues. We recommend consulting your specialist orthodontist before deciding on your course of treatment.

Why the choice should be made with a specialist

The decision between Invisalign and braces depends on individual case needs, and our specialist orthodontists at Orthodontics at Parramatta can offer guidance on the best treatment plan based on your case complexity and what you want for your own smile. You can browse our smile gallery to see the kinds of cases we treat.

Come and see us for a consultation

Our team of highly experienced specialists can offer guidance to help you find the right treatment plan for you. Book an appointment online today, or reach out to us on 02 7803 7803 to discuss your treatment pathways with our team.

Categories

• Invisalign
• Braces