Invisalign® vs. Braces: Which One Is Right Right for You?

Both Invisalign® and traditional braces offer unique advantages and can address many of the same concerns. We take plenty of time to help patients fully understand Invisalign® vs. braces during consults at our Philadelphia, PA-area offices. Our recommendation will be based primarily upon the severity of your misalignment, but your aesthetic goals and lifestyle can also help determine which treatment is best for you.

While Invisalign® is comfortable and discreet, severe misalignment may require traditional braces.

Commonalities

Invisalign® and traditional braces are both highly effective treatments for correcting a range of orthodontic issues, including:

  • Crooked or overlapping teeth
  • Rotated or tipped teeth
  • Gapped teeth
  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Open bite
  • Crossbite

Both methods rely on the use of graduated pressure to realign teeth over time. In fact, treatment times using either method are usually about the same. Meanwhile, the cost of Invisalign and the cost of braces is often comparable, with many insurance plans contributing to the cost of both options.

You can count on us to make a recommendation that will provide you with the best possible benefits.

Invisalign® for Subtlety and Comfort

Invisalign® uses clear plastic aligners that fit over your dental arch. The mouthpieces are issued in a series, and each successive aligner is designed to bring your teeth closer to proper alignment. Patients wear each tray for about two weeks, for at least 20 to 22 hours a day. The aligners should only be removed during meals, or while brushing and flossing.

Although this treatment can address both cosmetic issues and malocclusion, it may not be appropriate for cases of severe misalignment. Additionally, because the trays are removable, patients must be able to keep track of the aligners and wear them for the recommended duration. If you think you might forget to wear your aligners, Invisalign® may not be the best treatment for you.

However, if you can commit to wearing your aligners as directed, Invisalign® can provide a number of attractive benefits. Most notably, they are virtually invisible, and those around you likely will not notice that you are wearing orthodontics. And because you can remove the aligners as needed, you are free to eat any foods you choose, including crunchy and chewy foods that those who wear braces must avoid. Invisalign® patients can also continue to brush and floss as they normally would.

Benefits of Traditional Braces

Although Invisalign® works well for many patients, there are several reasons why traditional braces remain a popular choice, especially among patients who require complex orthodontic care and suffer from more severe misalignment. For example, if your smile requires vertical adjustment, traditional braces may be a more effective choice.

Many parents are apprehensive about choosing Invisalign® for adolescents because they feel that between school, sports, and other extracurricular activities, and a busy social life, their children will likely forget to wear their aligners or misplace them. While braces require the discipline to avoid certain foods that can damage brackets and wires, and meticulous hygiene to avoid tooth decay, parents can rest assured that treatment will remain uninterrupted.

Contact Us for an Evaluation 

We are dedicated to helping patients achieve straight, healthy smiles, and you can count on us to make a recommendation that will provide you with the best possible benefits. If you or your child are in need of orthodontics, and you are unsure about whether traditional braces or Invisalign® is the best choice, schedule a consultation with us today by calling (215) 245-5100.

Kellyn Hodges Orthodontics staff

Kellyn Hodges Orthodontics

At Kellyn Hodges Orthodontics, serving patients in Bala Cynwyd, Bensalem, and throughout Philadelphia, we are committed to helping children and adults of all backgrounds achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. Our compassionate and widely respected doctors are members of prestigious dental organizations, including: 

  • American Association of Orthodontists
  • American Dental Association 
  • National Dental Association
  • National Board of Orthodontics, U. S. 

To reach our helpful, multilingual staff, call us at (610) 617-0700 or request a consultation online.

Contact Us Today

We love Kellyn Hodges! She listens to her patients and provides excellent care! Her staff is very friendly and helpful as well! Tara F.

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