Patients who want to straighten their teeth ask us if they should get traditional braces or Invisalign. We know this is a big decision because orthodontic treatment takes time and money. There’s a lot to consider when making the right choice, like how complicated your case is, how much you have to spend and what you like. We can help you think about that and choose what’s best for you.
The most important thing to think about is how complicated your orthodontic needs are. Traditional braces can fix almost any alignment problem, from small gaps to big crowding, bad bite problems and teeth that need a lot of rotation. Braces are very flexible and reliable since the brackets and wires allow us to move teeth in any direction with precision. Over the years Invisalign has gotten better and now works for a lot of things, like moderate crowding, spacing problems and some bite corrections. But some very complicated problems still react better to traditional bracing. When you come in for your appointment in Vaughan we look at your individual orthodontic problems and tell you if both options are possible or if one is better for your condition.
Which one makes sense depends a lot on how you live and what you do every day. Invisalign is more convenient than traditional braces. You can take the aligners out to eat so you don’t have to worry about what you can eat. You can also take them out for special events like weddings or important shots, but you have to be strict about putting them back in after. Because traditional braces are attached to your teeth they work all the time without you having to remember to wear them. Braces might be more reliable if you’re worried about forgetting to put your aligners back in or if your schedule is erratic.
People choose based on how they look, especially teens and adults who are embarrassed about getting braces. Invisalign aligners are almost invisible so they’re the less noticeable choice. Metal braces are very obvious but ceramic braces with brackets that match your tooth colour are a good compromise. In this case Invisalign wins if you want to look professional while getting treatment. Some people don’t like how braces look or even think they’re a part of life.
The two methods have different ways of keeping your mouth clean while you’re getting treatment. It’s easier to keep your teeth clean with Invisalign since you can take the aligners out to brush and floss regularly. You have to be extra careful while cleaning around brackets and wires with traditional braces which takes more time and effort. Some patients on the other hand like the discipline that comes with braces because they can’t take them off when they don’t feel like taking care of their teeth.
For similar circumstances the cost of traditional braces and Invisalign is usually the same. Depending on how complicated your therapy is both usually cost between four thousand and eight thousand dollars. Insurance usually covers both equally which can help you save money. We have payment plans for both treatments so orthodontic care is affordable.
Most of the time the treatment period is the same whether you choose braces or Invisalign. It’s more important how complicated your orthodontic problems are than what kind of appliance you use. Both can take 12 months for simple cases and 18 to 24 months or longer for more complicated cases.
Comfort is different for everyone. Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic which usually doesn’t bother your cheeks and lips as much as brackets and wires do. You will feel pressure with both treatments though as changes are made or when you move to new aligners.
At Dentistry on the Pines we take the time to get to know each patient and their needs and wants as part of our Family Dentistry and Cosmetic Dentistry services. Some people definitely do better with one treatment than the other but many patients are suitable candidates for both. We give you honest advice based on what we think will work best for you.
Book an appointment with us if you’re in Vaughan and trying to decide between braces and Invisalign. We’ll take a look at your teeth, discuss your concerns and lifestyle and help you decide which one is for you. The right choice is one that will make you smile beautifully and healthily and fit into your life.