Is Invisalign as Good as Braces?

Invisalign is an excellent alternative to traditional metal braces. They are subtle, comfortable, and effective. Whether Invisalign will work as well as braces ultimately depends on what kind of misalignment issues you have. You may be surprised by how many things Invisalign can fix, but there are some complicated or severe cases in which braces are necessary, so it is always best to talk with your orthodontist to get expert guidance.

Invisalign

For Invisalign treatment, your orthodontist will scan and X-ray your mouth. Using the scans and X-rays, they will create the best treatment plan to straighten your teeth. Aligner trays will be manufactured based on the treatment plan and replaced every 1-2 weeks to gradually shift your teeth over time. The aligner trays are removable, so you can take them out whenever eating or drinking anything besides water. This means there are no food restrictions, as opposed to braces. An Invisalign patient must wear the aligners diligently; for best results, they should be worn at least 22 hours a day.

What Invisalign Can Treat

Invisalign is ideal for most mild to moderate misalignment problems:

• Generally crooked teeth

• Spacing

• Crowding

• Underbite

• Overbite

• Crossbite

• Open bite

Braces

Traditional braces are made of metal brackets and wires. The brackets are attached to the front surfaces of teeth using a special dental cement; then the wires are threaded through the brackets and adjusted at each orthodontist visit to gradually align the teeth.

When Braces Are Necessary

Braces are needed for a few problems that Invisalign cannot fix:

• Intrusion

• Extrusion

• Moving the midline

• Extreme spacing

If you are trying to choose between Invisalign and braces, call or visit us at Midland Dental. Our staff will be happy to help you determine which treatment is best for you!