Invisalign vs. Braces, which is Best for Me?

There’s been a lot of talk about the best way to straighten teeth. Both braces and Invisalign are designed to create that perfect smile, but which is better? Well, that depends on you. There are pros and cons of each, but let’s start with the basics.

Invisalign

Invisalign was designed to be invisible. Your teeth will be subtly shifted into place with the use of BPA-free clear plastic aligner trays. These fit right over your teeth and gently move them into the correct position over time. 3-D images of your teeth allow for a set of customized trays to be created just for you.

Invisalign aligners are removable, worn 22 to 24 hours each day. The clear aligners are taken off during meals and then cleaned before placing them back over your teeth. The aligners are changed every two weeks. The upside over braces is that you won’t have to deal with food getting stuck in the brackets or need as many appointments for adjustments. Another benefit – a big one – is that you can eat and drink anything you want. The invisibility factor makes this option a big favorite for adults.

Braces

Braces are glued to your teeth and tethered with wires and rubber bands. Brackets are now available in colors that blend with your so they are less visible. Or, on the flip side, you can choose a bright color and turn your braces into a fashion statement.

Braces are often the right option for more complex tooth alignment problems that can’t be resolved with Invisalign. They are not removable, so there’s no temptation for a teenager to take a day off, or the risk of losing a set of aligners – it has happened! Braces will need to be brushed well to get into those tight spots, and you will not be able to eat certain foods, such as popcorn, candy, or chewy, sticky, or hard foods.

It’s a tight race

When considering braces vs. Invisalign, it is all about lifestyle. Do you have a teen that could misplace the trays or not wear them consistently? Maybe you don’t want to deal with the food restrictions and want the flexibility of Invisalign so you can eat what you want.

For the best results with Invisalign or braces, we are here to help. The dentists at the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry are experienced with both Invisalign and braces and can evaluate your teeth, show you the options, and advise you about cost, the experience, and how long it will take to finally have that perfect smile. Call us!