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Comparison

Should I choose Braces or Invisalign

If you are considering braces vs Invisalign to straighten your teeth, you may have lots of questions. Which is more effective? Which is more affordable? Focus on the treatment that effectively straightens teeth and gives lasting results—even if it costs a bit more.

Braces

Benefits of Braces

When you think about how much cell phones have changed over the past 10 years, you can see a similar level of advancement with braces in the past decade. Did you know that metals can stretch like elastic? Did you know that some metals and alloys can be softer and less irritating? Today’s brackets are smaller and smoother and new materials are being used… and we could go on and on. Following a thorough evaluation and any needed diagnostic tests, we’ll ask you about your personal preferences and then develop a treatment plan specific to you.

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Invisalign

Benefits of Invisalign

The Invisalign system is a series of clear aligners — each worn for a specific period of time ­— that allow children, teens and adults to straighten their teeth without visible braces. It’s often a preferred option for adults, whether they have always wanted to make improvements or if their teeth have shifted over time. Invisalign® offers some major lifestyle advantages over traditional braces. For kids and teens who play sports, they don’t have to worry about the damage to their mouths that can occur when hit by a ball or colliding with another player. Musicians can continue to play their instruments properly. The removable aligners also make it easier to brush thoroughly and floss.

Features

Braces

Invisalign

Color Metal-typically silver; can pay extra for color or enamel color Clear/invisible
Treatment Time 24/7 for an average of 2 years, depending on patient needs 22-24 hrs/day for 6-18 months, depending on patient needs
Maintenance Brush brackets and wires regularly while brushing teeth; water pick may be helpful Invisalign Cleaning system, or brushing and rinsing trays in luke warm water
Follow Up Visits Every 5 – 8 weeks Every 8 – 10 weeks
Follow Up Treatment Positioner or retainer likely needed ongoing; maybe only at night Positioner or retainer likely needed ongoing; maybe only at night
Pros
  • More effective for more complex issues
  • No temptation to leave them out, so less self discipline is needed for success
  • No extra cleaning steps required besides regular brushing and flossing
  • Invisible
  • Removable
  • No issues with food getting caught
  • No difficulty eating
Cons
  • May have some pain, sores or discomfort from wires, brackets or tooth movement
  • May have some tooth discoloration or breakage
  • May have difficulty eating sticky, hard foods
  • May have discomfort from tooth movement
  • Must remove before eating or drinking anything but water
  • Must brush after each meal to avoid staining

Happy Patients

“Both of my children have been treated well and have had excellent results. Both father and son have wonderful chairside manner. One evening after hours my daughter had a bracket break. Dr. Jonathan Lang went above and beyond to return to the office to fix it.”

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    • Are you experiencing pain or irritation? Click here for quick solutions to common problems.