Invisalign vs. Braces: Which is Right for You?

Louisville, KY

Studies suggest that 50-70 percent of children in the U.S. are expected to wear braces before reaching adulthood and only about 35 percent of U.S. adults have well-aligned front teeth, suggesting that a substantial portion could benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontic treatment is an investment in yourself that begins with choosing how you want to straighten your teeth to create a smile that you love. Both traditional braces and Invisalign are effective at straightening teeth, but because of several advantages, Invisalign has become the preferred choice for many of our patients. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, today’s blog is for you. Read on as our cosmetic dentist in Jeffersonville looks at how Invisalign stacks up against traditional metal braces and why it might be the better option for you.

When appearance matters

Visibility is one of the most significant differences between braces and Invisalign.

• Traditional metal braces have noticeable brackets and wires that can make many patients, particularly adults and older teens, feel self-conscious.
• Invisalign, on the other hand, straightens teeth using a series of clear, almost invisible aligners that gradually shift the teeth into their proper position.

With Invisalign, you can straighten your teeth without calling attention to your treatment. That’s what often makes it the preferred choice for adults and older teens who prioritize aesthetics.

Comfort

Another significant advantage of Invisalign is comfort. Anyone who has ever worn braces knows all too well the discomfort of adjustments and when the metal brackets and wires poke and irritate the cheeks and lips. Invisalign aligners are made from smooth, medical-grade plastic that doesn’t poke or rub the soft tissue of the mouth. Patients often feel slight pressure for a day or two after switching to a new Invisalign aligner, but it’s much milder than the discomfort typically experienced after a braces adjustment.

Freedom and flexibility

For Invisalign treatment to be successful, patients must have the discipline to wear the aligners 20-22 hours a day. The aligners can be removed to eat, drink anything other than water and brush and floss your teeth. Since the aligners are removable, there are no dietary restrictions with Invisalign. Patients with braces have to avoid certain foods to prevent damaging the wires and brackets that are affixed to the teeth.

Quick and convenient

Invisalign can generally straighten teeth in as little as 6-18 months — often half the typical time it takes braces. Additionally, Invisalign typically requires fewer in-office visits than traditional braces. Braces must be adjusted and tightened, usually every 4-6 weeks. Our Jeffersonville Invisalign dentist often hands out multiple sets of aligners at once, translating into fewer dental appointments for you.

Invisalign in Jeffersonville, IN and Louisville, KY

Ready to take the first step toward a straighter smile? Our team at Exceptional Dentistry would love to hear from you! We can create a personalized treatment plan that will give you the smile of your dreams. Call us at (888) 918-3336, or reach out to us online today.