Invisalign VS. Braces—Which One Should You Choose

Contributed by Dr. Barbara Fodero, Chatham Orthodontics

If you are an adult, the thought of braces and wires attached to your teeth may make you think twice about pursuing orthodontic treatment. Would Invisalign be better? Your child’s orthodontist recommended either braces or Invisalign--which option is really the best choice?

Both Invisalign and braces are effective means of straightening teeth, but they both have their advantages and disadvantages. Braces consist of brackets that are attached to your teeth and connected by a wire. Braces align teeth from the force of the wire gradually pulling teeth into position. Invisalign is an innovative technology consisting of virtually invisible trays that fit over the teeth. Invisalign works by the force of the plastic pushing the teeth into position. Often this requires the placement of “attachments” or clear composite bumps bonded to the teeth because plastic trays are forgiving and sometimes can’t “grab” a smooth tooth to move it effectively.

People like Invisalign because it is removable and therefore is easier to eat. You don’t have to contend with wires and brackets where food can get stuck. It is also easier to brush and floss without wires and brackets in place. And there are less food restrictions like there are with braces, because you don’t have to worry about hard foods breaking off braces or popping wires out. Given that Invisalign is is less noticeable and more comfortable than braces, you would think this would make it the best option! Surprisingly not! I have many adults in my practice who find it

to be a burden to take the trays in and out to eat, and often forget to put them back in! Invisalign requires at least 20 hours of wear each day to be effective. If you cannot commit to 20 hours or more a day, your treatment will take longer and you may not get the outcome you desired. For that reason, braces may work faster and have more predictable results simply because they cannot be removed. Braces are also less expensive than Invisalign.

Some parents are concerned that Invisalign won’t work for their teenager. Believe it or not, most teenagers are better at wearing their aligners than adults! Also, if you have a child that struggles with oral hygiene, Invisalign is a better option. There is less risk of decalcification or cavities in patients treated with Invisalign.

Certain tooth movements or bite corrections are best treated with braces while others are best treated with Invisalign. Sometimes a combination, such as Invisalign on the top teeth and braces on the bottom teeth, is an esthetic compromise that works well. An orthodontist’s expertise can help guide you to which option would give you the best correction and a beautiful smile.

Expert Contributor Dr. Barbara Fodero, Chatham Orthodontics