What is the difference between braces and Invisalign

Want a winning smile? Unsure of which orthodontic treatment to get? To help you decide, here is our guide to the two most popular types of treatment for realigning your teeth – fixed braces and Invisalign – and how they differ in terms of convenience, appearance and effectiveness.

Cosmetic features

One of the primary factors people consider when having braces installed is how they’ll look.

Fixed braces are highly visible as devices made up from wires connected to brackets affixed to each tooth. The wire is held together by supporting elastic bands. There are different types of fixed braces, which range from traditional metal ones to ceramic or lingual options. Ceramic braces use wires and brackets in tooth colours, while lingual braces rest directly behind the teeth.

Removable vs fixed braces

There are key differences between the two treatments in terms of the time they remain lodged in the mouth. Because fixed braces are permanently attached to the teeth, they can only be removed professionally by an orthodontist when the time is right. This will suit some people who are uncomfortable with the idea of removing or reinstating them.

However, other patients may prefer the flexibility afforded by Invisalign aligners. While this makes eating, brushing and flossing more straightforward, it is important to be disciplined and remember to keep them in the mouth for a minimum of 22 hours a day to ensure effectiveness.

The cost

Ultimately, the cost of aligner treatments will depend on the brace type and your unique orthodontic needs. It will be necessary to arrange a consultation pre-installation so the dentist can make an assessment. They will then be able to advise on appropriate options and relevant price plans.

Traditional fixed metal braces are typically cheaper than the more discreet Invisalign option. The cost of Invisalign typically factors in advanced technology and custom-designed materials.

How different braces can solve different problems

Dentists will often advise traditional fixed-brace solutions for patients with complex orthodontic issues. These might include excessive overcrowding or a deep overbite, and occasionally minor alignment issues as well. If you opt for Invisalign, different solutions include Invisalign Teen for young people, and Invisalign Lite, which has purely cosmetic goals.

Comfort and familiarisation

Whichever braces you have installed, it will take time to get accustomed to them. Straighter smiles cannot be achieved without some degree of discomfort. It is worth noting that fixed braces may cause some irritation to gum and cheek areas at the beginning. Once you get used to them, there are measures you can take to reduce discomfort, such as orthodontic wax.

While Invisalign doesn’t rub in quite the same way, it can also generate some discomfort, although over time it will feel more natural and comfortable, and surveys have found it is more comfortable overall than traditional braces.

Oral hygiene

With any kind of orthodontic treatment, extra care is needed when brushing or flossing. With fixed braces, you should be fastidious, as they can be more difficult to clean. If neglected, there could be resultant sore gums or even tooth decay. This is why you should arrange regular appointments with a hygienist.

While people with Invisalign aligners can remove them, it is important to clean them every day with water and light brushing.

Treatment time

When people have braces fitted, they can sometimes underestimate how much time the treatment will take. It will depend on a number of factors, and not necessarily just the type of braces installed. Often, it will be determined by how fast your teeth move, which on average is a millimetre a month. It may also be conditional on the amount movement needed to straighten the teeth or any underlying jaw or bite issues in need of attention.

In general terms, metal braces could take around 18-24 months to have maximum impact. Invisalign might take 12-18 months, or even as little as six for more minor complications. Everyone is, of course, unique, and dental predictions may shift once treatment has started.

If you are based in Cheshire or North Wales and think your teeth need realigning, get in touch with our specialist orthodontics team at Art of Dental Care today. We are leading providers of Invisalign in Chester, and serve areas across the North West such as Flint and Mold.