Braces vs Invisalign in Shoreline: What’s the Difference?
If you are considering teeth alignment treatments, it’s important to understand the difference between braces vs Invisalign in Shoreline, WA. These are both popular methods but there have notable distinctions that you should know to help you make the best decision for your smile.
What are Braces?
Braces are the more traditional teeth alignment treatment that most people are familiar with. They use brackets that are glued to your teeth and metal wires that are threaded through the brackets to gradually shift your teeth into place.
They can be made up of stainless steel, ceramic, or plastic materials. There are braces installed in the front of your teeth and there’s also the lingual braces that are set on the back.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a newer teeth alignment treatment that uses clear plastic trays that you wear onto your teeth to gradually shift them into place. The aligners are nearly invisible since they are clear and made of medical-grade plastic.
Braces vs Invisalign in Shoreline
Here are some of the most notable difference when comparing braces vs Invisalign in Shoreline:
#1 – Appearance
The most obvious difference is the appearance. If you are conscious about how braces will look on your teeth, then Invisalign might be a better option since they are practically invisible.
With braces, the brackets and wires can be seen which some people feel self-conscious about. However, braces have come a long way and there are now more options for braces that are less noticeable.
If you opt for braces, you can choose braces that are made of clear ceramic or plastic materials. You can also choose lingual braces that are set on the back of your teeth.
Some people also prefer braces because they feel that it gives them a more “metal and tough” look. Others prefer Invisalign so they don’t have to worry about their look while undergoing treatment for teeth misalignment.
#2 – Removability
Invisalign trays are meant to be removed so you can eat, drink, brush, and floss your teeth. You will need to remove them for at least two hours a day.
With braces, they are glued onto your teeth so you can’t remove them. This means that you have to be more careful about the kinds of food you eat and how often you brush and floss your teeth.
Some people prefer Invisalign because they don’t have to worry about food getting stuck in their braces. Others find it more convenient to not have to remove their braces every time they want to eat or drink.
Some people also feel that since Invisalign trays are removable, they are more likely to lose them or forget to put them back in.
#3 – Cases that they treat
Invisalign can treat a wide range of teeth alignment issues including crowding, spacing, overbites, and underbites.
Braces can also treat a wide range of teeth alignment issues but there are some cases where Invisalign might be a better option.
For example, if you have a very mild case of teeth misalignment, Invisalign tends to be a better choice. If you have a more severe case of teeth misalignment, braces might work better.
Some people also feel that braces are better for treating more complex cases of teeth misalignment.
At the end of the day, the best way to know which treatment is best for you is to consult with an orthodontist. They will be able to assess your individual case and recommend the best course of treatment for you.
#4 – Comfort
When comparing braces vs Invisalign in Shoreline, some people find braces to be more comfortable since they are less likely to cause irritation to your gums. With Invisalign, the aligners can sometimes rub against your gums and cause irritation.
They may also find braces to be more comfortable because they don’t have to worry about the trays falling out or being forgotten.
On the other hand, others prefer Invisalign over braces because braces rub against the inside of the mouth, causing irritation and canker sores. Also, they may cause a certain level of speech difficulty.
#5 – Mode of cleaning
Braces make require less time to clean your teeth since you don’t have to remove them. You can simply brush and floss your teeth like normal. However, this may cause more food to get stuck in your braces and lead to some dental health issues.
With Invisalign, you have to remove the trays and clean them separately while you also brush and floss your teeth. You also have to be careful about not losing them or forgetting to put them back in.
Some people find braces to be more convenient because they don’t have to worry about losing the trays or forgetting to put them back in. Others find Invisalign to be more convenient because they can brush and floss their teeth like normal.
#6 – Compliance
In order to see results with Invisalign, you need to be diligent about wearing the trays for at least 22 hours a day.
With braces, you don’t have to worry about removing them or losing them. You also don’t have to be as diligent about wearing them since they are glued to your teeth.
#7 – Frequency of visits
With braces, you will need to visit the orthodontist every few weeks to have them tightened. With Invisalign, you will need to visit the orthodontist every few months to get new aligners.
Some also find Invisalign to be more convenient because they can get new aligners without having to go through the process of getting braces tightened.
#8 – Cost
The cost of braces vs Invisalign in Shoreline can vary depending on the severity of your case and where you live. In general, braces tend to be cheaper than Invisalign.
On average, brace cost around $3000 – $4000 while Invisalign cost around $5000 – $7000.
Getting Invisalign or Braces in Shoreline
Now that we have answered your question, “What is the difference between braces and Invisalign?”, it is important to consult with an orthodontist to see which treatment is best for you.
If you want excellent treatment for your unique needs, our office at Spain Orthodontics in Shoreline, WA is the perfect place for you! Dr. Spain is capable of offering teeth misalignment treatment using either braces or Invisalign.
A complimentary consultation is also available for you so we can help you determine which between braces vs Invisalign in Shoreline works best based on your case. Give us a call or schedule an appointment with us today!
