Invisalign vs. Braces

In the past, orthodontic treatment options were quite limited. Today, however, there are several choices available, and Humphrey Orthodontics is going to step in and tell you the differences and similarities between braces and Invisalign so you can choose a path with confidence!

Two Excellent Approaches

We will delve deeper into these options, but here are the most basic descriptions of traditional braces and clear aligners:

• Traditional braces consist of several components that gradually straighten teeth through regular adjustments by Dr. Humphrey and our team. Brackets can be made of either metal or ceramic.

• Clear aligners, like Invisalign and Invisalign Teen, are worn as trays that progressively shift teeth into place. Each set of aligners is incrementally adjusted from the previous one.

Comparing and Contrasting

The decision is ultimately yours, and your collaboration with Dr. Humphrey will help you make an informed decision. We will consider various variables and factors related to your specific condition and goals for your treatment. Here are some of the key comparisons between braces and clear aligners that we may discuss and evaluate during our initial appointments:

• Comfort:

• • Invisalign: These custom-made plastic trays fit closely over the surface of your teeth with smooth edges, reducing the likelihood of gum and cheek irritation. As a result, they generally provide greater comfort compared to traditional braces.

• • Braces: In the beginning, traditional braces may cause discomfort and irritate the soft tissues of the mouth. Patients might experience soreness after adjustments or from wires and brackets rubbing against the cheeks or lips. This should subside within a short period.

• Aesthetics:

• • Invisalign: Many of our adult and teenage patients appreciate the nearly invisible appearance of clear aligners, which is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a less noticeable treatment option.

• • Braces: Traditional metal braces tend to be more visible due to the use of metals and potentially colored elastic bands.

• Treatment Duration:

• • Invisalign: The duration of treatment varies based on case complexity and how well you comply as a patient, but usually ranges from 12 to 18 months on average.

• • Braces: Treatment duration with braces also widely varies, typically spanning anywhere from 18 months to 3 years, depending on the severity of orthodontic issues.

• Maintenance:

• • Invisalign: Clear aligners are removable, allowing for easy cleaning of both the aligners and teeth. Patients are able to maintain regular brushing and flossing routines without additional obstruction.

• • Braces: Due to being affixed in place, caring for braces requires specialized tools like interdental brushes, floss threaders, and water flossers for complete cleaning. Food particles can accumulate around wires and brackets, which leads to increased plaque buildup and tooth decay risks. 

• Adjustments:

• • Invisalign:  This treatment involves changing to a new, slightly different set of aligners every one to two weeks, gradually shifting your teeth. These adjustments are managed at home with periodic progress checks at Humphrey Orthodontics.

• • Braces: Adjustments are done in-office by Dr. Humphrey and our team every four to six weeks. During your appointments, wires may be tightened or replaced, and bracket adjustments are made as necessary.

• Effectiveness:

• • Invisalign: Clear aligners are mainly effective for treating mild to moderate orthodontic issues such as crooked teeth, gaps, and minor bite problems. For more severe problems, they might not be an adequate choice.

• • Braces: Braces will usually address a broader range of orthodontic problems, including complex misalignment, overcrowding, overbites, crossbites, and underbites. Fixed, adjustable components provide highly precise control over tooth movement. We recommend these for complex cases.

• Dietary Restrictions:

• • Invisalign: Clear aligners are easily removable, which allows patients to eat most foods without issue. Even still, we advise minimizing excess sugar intake for overall oral health.

• • Braces:  Patients with braces should diligently avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could cause serious damage to wires and brackets. Crunchy foods like nuts, popcorn, and hard candies might need to be avoided altogether.

• Speech:

• • Invisalign: Adapting to clear aligners may initially cause temporary changes in speech due to the new presence of plastic trays in your mouth. Most patients adjust fast, and any speech difficulties typically resolve within days.

• • Braces: Speech can be affected with braces as well, particularly with certain sounds that require contact between your tongue and teeth. With practice, speech patterns will normalize over time.

It’s also important to remember that clear braces offer an excellent midpoint between these two distinct options. They retain the same structure and components as traditional braces but feature brackets that blend in with your teeth, providing enhanced aesthetic appeal.

Making the Best Choice

Both options have their own set of advantages, and regardless of your choice, we are dedicated to assisting you in achieving your ideal smile. If you’re currently evaluating your treatment options, we hope this blog has offered valuable insights. Our two exceptional offices, led by Dr. Humphrey and our teams in Wentzville and St. Peters, look forward to welcoming you soon!