An extensive internal debate that many people have when they want to achieve the perfect smile is whether they should go with Invisalign or traditional braces. Your orthodontist in Melbourne, FL, will help you determine whether you’re a good candidate for these treatments and will be able to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each one in more detail. The truth is that both are effective treatments for suitable patients. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of these orthodontic choices.

Pros of Traditional Braces

Braces are a tried and true orthodontic treatment that has been around for hundreds of years. Modern braces are highly effective at correcting even severe malocclusions. The braces apply force over time to shift even the most crooked teeth into the proper alignment. This helps the patient achieve a beautiful smile and can also carry many health benefits with it. People with straight smiles can chew and digest their food better than before, and it can also help correct some speech impediments caused by misaligned teeth. Once your teeth are straightened, they’re easier to brush and floss.

Braces are the most common orthodontic treatment for children between the ages of 11 and 14 because of their high success rate and affordability.

Cons of Traditional Braces

Braces can cause discomfort during the first few days after they are installed, and each time your Melbourne orthodontist tightens them. It takes time to adjust to this pressure. It’s not painful–it’s just uncomfortable for a short time. Braces also require some lifestyle adjustments when it comes to your diet. There are certain foods you should avoid so you don’t damage the brackets or wire. If you play contact sports, you’ll also have to wear a mouthguard to prevent severe injury or damage to the braces.

Brushing and flossing your teeth when you have braces is more complicated. If you slack off on your daily oral care routine, it can quickly lead to developing cavities. It also takes more time to thoroughly and effectively brush and floss your teeth with braces.

Pros of Invisalign

Invisalign’s name implies one of its biggest pros–the clear plastic aligners are mostly invisible. These are popular for many people who don’t want others to know they’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. The aligners are custom-made, so they fit snugly over the teeth. They slowly adjust the teeth, like braces, over time. You’ll receive a new set of aligners every few weeks until the process is complete.

Another significant advantage of Invisalign is that you can take the aligner out for meals and brush and floss your teeth. You don’t have to adjust your diet when using Invisalign. It also makes taking care of your teeth much more accessible. A 2015 study published in BMC Oral Health found that patients using Invisalign had “significantly better” gingival health than similar patients using braces.

Cons of Invisalign

Invisalign works best for patients with mild to moderate malocclusions. You might not be a good candidate for Invisalign if you have more severe malocclusion or crooked teeth. You must wear the aligners for up to 22 hours daily for them to be effective. If you take them out for a meal or brush your teeth and forget to put them back in for too long, it can cause your teeth to shift back to their original locations. This can prolong the time you’ll need treatment with Invisalign.

Invisalign has become cheaper in recent years, thanks to advances in 3D printing. It also requires fewer visits to the orthodontist when undergoing treatment. Because of these factors, Invisalign is becoming more affordable, but it can still be more costly than traditional braces.

If you’re concerned about payment options, financing, or insurance to pay for braces or Invisalign, we work with patients to help them choose the best choice. Most dental insurance plans will also cover orthodontics. We also offer zero-interest financing for the duration of treatment and a discount if you pay for braces in total upfront. Contact us today with any questions about braces or Invisalign, or schedule an appointment!