In many cases, it’s possible to treat your orthodontic needs through either Invisalign or traditional braces. Here are a few differences and similarities between the two to help inform you before you make a decision.
Similarities
1. Same quality of results. Invisalign is as effective as braces because the common elements are Dr. Aggarwal’s expertise and experience, and you the motivated, cooperative, and enthusiastic patient.
2. Same treatment time: again, because the common elements are Dr. Aggarwal’s expertise and experience, and you the motivated, cooperative, and enthusiastic patient!
3. Same requirement of elastics to fix the bite/fit of the upper and lower teeth.
4. Same requirement for retainers at the end of treatment to retain the work that we accomplished together.
Differences
Invisalign
1. Virtually invisible; smiling photos can be easily taken for school pictures, weddings, Snapchat, Instagram.
2. Elastics between upper and lower teeth can be multi-coloured, if desired.
3. 1 day of pressure with each aligner, but little to no pain. No need for pain medicine. Mouth sores are not expected.
4. Less visits required to our office (every 8-12 weeks).
5. Shorter appointment times = easier to get the time or day you desire.
6. No extra visits needed to repair breakages. Eat or drink whatever you want. Aligners can be kept in the mouth or removed for eating/drinking. No need to make special mushy meals.
7. Excellent oral hygiene because aligners can be removed for 2x/day easy 2-3 min brushing and flossing. Far less risk of getting white spots/cavities on teeth and swollen bleeding gums.
8. Peace of mind if you travel out of town.
9. Great for active lifestyles. Great if you play a musical instrument.
10. No extra cost for lost or broken aligners.
11. Invisalign is always improving comfort, ease of good oral hygiene, and removing dietary limitations.
Braces
1. Very noticeable by others. Even ceramic braces are noticeable.
2. Colours around each brace.
3. 1-7 days of pressure and pain with each tightening. Advil or Tylenol use is expected. Expect mouth sores from time to time.
4. More visits required to our office (every 6-8 weeks).
5. Longer appointment times.
6. Must avoid hard or sticky foods or objects that would break braces or wires. Say goodbye to popcorn and gum! Time off school and/or work may be required for these extra visits.
7. Must brush and floss 3x/day after breakfast, lunch, and dinner, 10 min each time. Higher risk of white spots/cavities on teeth and swollen bleeding gums. More frequent dental cleanings required.
8. Have to scramble to find an orthodontist if something is sharp or broken when traveling out of town.
9. Possibility of lip injury during sports. May limit performance with a mouth-related instrument.
10. Possible extra costs if there are unusually frequent braces breakages.
11. No company is putting any more research into improving the braces experience for patients. Braces will always hurt more, require more responsibility with brushing, and limit what you can eat.