Invisalign® vs. Traditional Braces

If you want to straighten a crooked or misaligned smile by moving your teeth into place, you have two options: Invisalign® or orthodontics. Invisalign^® is a virtually invisible method of moving your teeth through a series of clear plastic aligners. There are pros and cons of both traditional metal braces and Invisalign®, so you will need to review each method, talk to your dentist and make an informed decision about which one is best for your situation.

About Invisalign®

Each Invisalign^® aligner is custom-designed for your specific bite, to accomplish your dental goals. You will wear each aligner for about two weeks and can remove them to eat, brush and floss. As your teeth move into correct alignment, you will replace each aligner with the next one in the series. Invisalign® treatment requires only one visit every six weeks to make sure your treatment is progressing. There are no wires to tighten or adjustments that need to be made to your aligners.

About Braces

Traditional metal braces are still an effective method of straightening your smile. Braces cost less than Invisalign® and are the preferred treatment for children and teenagers. Invisalign^® is not appropriate for patients with growing palates and developing mouths. Braces are almost always covered by insurance companies, but only some insurance carriers will cover Invisalign^®. Braces may be easier for some people than Invisalign® since there are no aligners to keep track of. Once braces are placed, the patient needs only to maintain routine appointments to adjust the wires.

Which is Right for Me?

Anyone in need of dental alignment can generally be fitted for braces. Depending on the development of your mouth and the severity of your misalignment, you may not quality for Invisalign^®. If you have a severe bite problem that requires you to wear headgear, Invisalign^® will not work because it is not compatible. Invisalign^® only works if patients wear the aligners. Because they will be removed when you eat, drink and brush, Invisalign requires a certain level of responsibility. Invisalign^® treatment is also dependent on the patients wearing the aligners. If you think there is a chance you will not be diligent in wearing the aligners, traditional braces may be a better option.

To learn more, please see Questions about Invisalign®.

If you would like to straighten your smile, Dr. Joel Miller and his experienced dental team can help you as they have helped thousands of others in Santa Clarita and the San Fernando Valley. Please contact Aesthetic Dentistry of Valencia today to schedule your no-cost consultation.