Invisalign vs. Braces: FAQs
If the thought of wearing metal braces is preventing you from seeking orthodontic treatment, Invisalign® may be right for you. Invisalign straightens the teeth using a series of clear trays, making it possible to improve the smile without metal braces.
Although Invisalign is a popular treatment, some people are better served by traditional braces. Dr. Roni Berbari determines which treatment, Invisalign vs. braces, is right for patients at his Montreal, QC, practice. To find out which treatment is right for you, we welcome you to schedule a consultation.
Let's take a closer look at the differences between Invisalign and braces and how each may benefit you.
What Is Invisalign?
The Invisalign system corrects alignment of the teeth using a series of clear aligner trays. Trays are custom-made and worn over the teeth throughout the day and night. Trays can be removed while eating and when brushing and flossing the teeth.
Each set of trays is worn for about two weeks until the teeth have aligned to the desired position.
What Are Braces?
Braces straighten the teeth using metal or tooth colored brackets attached directly to the teeth that are joined and tightened with metal wires and rubber bands.
Braces are worn for 24 hours a day and cannot be removed by the patient.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
The amount of time both Invisalign and braces take to straighten the smile will depend on the patient's needs.
Generally, Invisalign takes 12 to 18 months to correct alignment issues. Patients may impact treatment time if they don't wear their aligners properly or for at least 20 hours a day.
The amount of time braces need to be worn before correcting the smile depends on the severity of alignment issues. Some people may achieve their desired results within 18 months while others must wear their braces for several years.
Which Treatment Is More Comfortable?
Many of our Montreal patients find Invisalign treatment more comfortable than traditional braces. Because Invisalign trays are made of smooth plastic, they don't irritate the inside of the mouth like metal braces are known to do.
Metal braces cannot be removed like Invisalign trays can, which can make eating with braces difficult and uncomfortable.
Do I Have to Change My Diet?
One major difference between Invisalign and braces is the fact that Invisalign wearers don't have to adjust their diet as is necessary for those who have braces.
Certain foods, like hard chips, sticky candies, nuts, and popcorn, should be avoided when wearing braces. These foods can damage braces or get stuck in them and increase the risk of tooth decay.
Invisalign wearers don't have to worry about what they eat since aligner trays can be removed when eating and cleaning the teeth.
Choosing Between Invisalign and Braces
Invisalign can correct many alignment issues including overbites, underbites, crossbites, and gapped teeth, provided that they are mild to moderate cases.
Those with severe alignment problems are generally not good candidates for Invisalign and are better served by traditional braces. In addition to treating severe alignment issues, braces may also be used for mild to moderate issues.
The right orthodontic treatment for each patient depends on how much correction their teeth need but for those with mild to moderate cases, the choice comes down more to preference and what they are looking for with their orthodontic treatment.
Schedule a Consultation
If you live in or near Montreal and would like to find out which treatment is right for you, call (514) 733-3933 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Berbari.