A comparison between Invisalign and fitted braces

There have always been contenders or rivals, particularly when relating to treatment options for specific aesthetic issues.

Dermal fillers have often been compared to Botox and hair dye to hair chalk. In the world of orthodontic care, this continues with the comparison of a fitted orthodontic tool to a removable one. This is particularly important in adult dental care where you have to take a bit more time to decide which one is worth investing in and which one will have the best benefits for you.

At Clear Braces Direct, we have helped thousands of patients to get the straighter smiles that they want and deserve using Invisalign London. So we know all of the advantages that this aligner can offer to patients and of course, we can assess if it is right for you.

But how does this new orthodontic tool compare to the standard metal brace when taking on adult orthodontic treatments? In this article, we will discuss and compare braces and Invisalign London so you can decide which may be the right treatment for you.

Oral health

Good oral health is a required basis for almost every dental treatment imaginable.

And when you are using an orthodontic tool for teeth straightening, it is important to consider the impact that it may have on your teeth and gums. Invisalign London is removable, so you can easily brush and floss your teeth without inconvenience. Fitted braces will require you to invest in additional equipment such as interdental brushes and hygienist appointments to keep your teeth plaque-free.

Discretion

As the name suggests, Invisalign aligners are invisible; they are made from clear plastic which is custom-fitted to slot over your teeth and does not protrude. So even those who see you every day may have difficulty spotting that you are undertaking this treatment.

Fitted braces may or may not be discreet; lingual options are attached to the backs of the teeth and are harder to spot, but are also only suitable for certain cases. A standard fitted brace is likely to be visible which may not matter if you are not self-conscious about it. But it is not as likely to offer the discretion that many adults want from an orthodontic tool.

Comfort

Fitted braces have to be tightened and adjusted for them to move your teeth. This will require your orthodontist to alter them and essentially enable the archwire and the brackets to pull them into the desired location. This can create pressure in the jaw which can lead to discomfort. That is not to say that invisible aligners are without discomfort, but they operate on a different mode of action. They push the teeth rather than pull them and do not retain the same level of tension as a fitted brace, so pressure and discomfort are less likely.

Expense

Invisible aligners are surprisingly affordable; this is due to the length of time you will be wearing them for around 3 to 6 months. There are financing options that our team can offer you. Fitted braces require more intervention to operate and more dental appointments, so they are often more pricey.

Time

As mentioned before, invisible aligners can straighten your teeth in as little as 3 to 6 months. Fitted braces can take up to 3 years depending on the complexity of the clinical case.