Are you ready to transform your smile, but feeling torn between Invisalign and braces? We understand the struggle! Choosing the right orthodontic treatment can be a tough decision. But with a free consultation from Epic at our Houston dental office, it can be a breeze.
In the meantime, let’s go over these two popular options for straightening teeth. While you can do things to hide a certain degree of crookedness such as porcelain veneers, these two solutions are corrective.
Epic Dental Center is a leading provider of general dentistry procedures, but also Invisalign and braces in Houston. We offer a wide range of services to improve your smile including:
- Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures
- Teeth Whitening
- Dental Crowns
- Dental Implants
No matter if your case is aesthetic only and just needs the service of our cosmetic dentist’s magic, or a functional issue. We have the perfect treatment plan that will ensure you get the dental care you need to achieve a beautiful smile.
Obviously, you’re here because you care about your oral health and want to make the right decision between Invisalign and braces. So let’s dive right in and discuss each procedure and how it might fit into your smile makeover treatment.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an alternative to traditional braces that uses clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. Because Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, most people won’t even know you’re wearing them.
Invisalign is a great option for adults and teens who want to improve their smile without the noticeable metal of braces.
The Invisalign treatment process at Epic begins with a consultation with Dr. Vela They will determine if you are a candidate for Invisalign and create a treatment plan. If you are a good candidate for Invisalign, digital scans or impressions of your teeth will be taken to create your custom-made, snap-on aligners.
You will be given a new set of snap-on aligners approximately every two weeks, and each new set will move your teeth slightly until they eventually reach the correct position. You will need to wear your aligners for 20-22 hours each day and remove them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss.
What are Braces?
Braces are a type of dental treatment that helps to straighten teeth and improve the overall appearance of your smile. They are usually made from metal or ceramic and are bonded to your teeth with special adhesives.
There are many different types of braces available on the market today, including tooth-colored variations. It’s important to speak with the orthodontist about which option would be the best fit for your individual needs. Invisalign is one variation of braces that has gained popularity in recent years due to its nearly invisible appearance.
However, traditional braces are still an effective option for many people with more significant alignment issues. Some factors that may influence your decision between Invisalign and braces include the severity of your misalignment, the length of time you are willing to wear braces, and your budget.
Pros and Cons of Both Options
There are many factors to consider when choosing between Invisalign and braces. Here are some pros and cons of each option:
Invisalign Pros
Invisible – unlike metal braces, Invisalign’s clear aligners are nearly invisible, so you can smile without worry.
Removable – you can take out your Invisalign aligners to eat, brush, and floss as usual. This also makes them more comfortable than braces.
Faster treatment time – on average, the overall treatment time with Invisalign takes about 12 months, while braces usually take 18 months to 2 years.
Invisalign Cons
More expensive – Invisalign is typically more expensive than braces. However, many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost.
Not suitable for severe cases – Invisalign may not be an option if you have severe misalignment or other complex dental issues. Braces may be a better option in these cases.
Braces Pros
Effectiveness- Braces have been proven to be an effective treatment for a wide variety of dental issues, from simple misalignments to more complex problems like overbites and underbites.
See Results Faster- On average, treatment with braces for more significant misalignments shows results faster than with Invisalign. This is because the brackets and wires of braces work to quickly realign your teeth into their proper position. Some cases can only be treated with braces.
Lower Cost- In general, braces cost less than Invisalign. This is because the technology involved in manufacturing Invisalign aligners is more expensive than traditional braces.
Braces Cons
Cumbersome- Because there’s wires and metal against your mouth, teeth, and gums, they can be quite uncomfortable.
More Maintenance- They routinely have to be adjusted throughout the treatment plan which can also be uncomfortable.
Restrictive- You can no longer eat whatever you want as it can stick to the metal wires, or cause other issues.
Invisalign vs. Braces: Which is the Best Fit for Your Smile?
If you’re considering Invisalign or braces to help improve your smile, it’s important to understand the differences between the two treatments.
As we’ve discussed, Invisalign is a clear aligner system that uses a series of custom-made, nearly invisible trays to gradually move your teeth into place.
Braces, on the other hand, are metal appliances that are bonded to your teeth and use wires and rubber bands to move your teeth into place.
Determining which option is right for you may depend on several factors, including the severity of your misalignment. Also, how long you’re willing to wear treatment, and your budget.
In general, Invisalign may be a good option if you have mild to moderate misalignment and you’re looking for a practically invisible treatment option.
Braces may be a better choice if you have more severe misalignment or if you’re looking for a treatment that’s typically less expensive.
To make the best decision for your smile, we recommend booking a free consultation with Dr. Vela who can evaluate your individual case and make specific recommendations.
CONTACT US TODAY to schedule your free consultation and let’s get to work on that perfect smile!
