Invisalign Vs Traditional Braces: Are Clear Aligners Right for You?

Misaligned and crooked teeth can often make you feel self-conscious about your appearance. They can also lead to issues with biting, chewing, and even speaking, as well as discomfort in your jaw or face. Thankfully, teeth straightening is more accessible than ever.

While traditional metal braces have been the go-to solution for decades, Invisalign clear aligners have revolutionised orthodontic treatment in recent years. 

If you're considering orthodontic treatment, you might wonder which option is best for you, and it’s natural to want to weigh your options. 

In this blog post, we'll compare Invisalign to traditional braces and highlight why Invisalign could be the ideal choice for your smile transformation.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten your teeth. These custom-made aligners are virtually invisible, comfortable to wear, and can be removed for eating, drinking, and cleaning your teeth.

Invisalign can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, including:

• Crowded teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Overbites
• Underbites
• Crossbites
• Open bites

While Invisalign is suitable for most patients, it's particularly beneficial if:

• You’re concerned about the appearance of traditional braces
• You have a busy lifestyle and are looking for convenience 
• You play contact sports or wind instruments
• You have a mild to moderate orthodontic issue

How Does Invisalign Compare to Traditional Braces?

Although the end goal and the theory behind these two teeth straightening treatments may be similar, there are some key differences. In many cases, these could benefit you. Let's break down the key differences:

1. Appearance 

Invisalign is nearly invisible, allowing you to straighten your teeth discreetly. Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires.

If you're concerned about the appearance of metal braces, Invisalign offers a clear aesthetic advantage.

2. Comfort

When it comes to comfort, Invisalign’s smooth plastic aligners have no sharp edges. With traditional braces, the metal brackets and wires can sometimes irritate your cheeks and gums.

3. Removability

The beauty of Invisalign is it can be easily removed for eating, drinking, and cleaning. Traditional braces, however, are fixed in place throughout treatment.

The ability to remove your aligners makes eating, oral hygiene, and special occasions much easier.

4. Food Restrictions

There are no food restrictions with Invisalign, as you will always remove aligners to eat. Traditional braces can be a little more restrictive, and you may need to take care when eating certain hard or chewy foods. 

5. Oral Hygiene

Cleaning your teeth when you have fixed braces can be a challenge. You need to navigate the brackets and wires to remove food debris and bacteria, which can easily become trapped. 

Maintaining good oral hygiene is much simpler with Invisalign. Because your aligner is removable, your brushing technique doesn’t need to change. 

6. Treatment Time

Invisalign is often faster for mild to moderate cases, and treatments typically take 6-18 months. Fixed braces can be used in a wide variety of cases, however, in some situations, the treatment may take longer. 

7. Convenience

Fixed braces need to be adjusted at various points throughout treatment. These adjustments alter the tension along the wire to progress your tooth movements. This means attending regular appointments. 

Invisalign works in steps. At each step, you’ll change your aligner, which happens approximately every two weeks. Because we don’t need to adjust anything, there’s no need for an appointment. Instead, we’ll ask you to visit less frequently to check on your progress. 

8. Predictability

Your Invisalign treatment is pre-planned with 3D computer imaging, allowing you to see your projected results before starting. The outcomes of fixed braces can be controlled, but you won’t see your expected results before you start. 

Invisalign in Sheffield

Invisalign has many benefits over traditional braces, however, your specific circumstances are an essential factor in any decision. Before committing to this treatment option, we’ll perform a thorough assessment and take the time to discuss the process and your expectations in depth. 

Contact us today to book your Invisalign consultation in Sheffield.

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