Have you been debating Invisalign vs metal braces for yourself or your child? Both treatment options work to straighten teeth, providing highly effective care. To give you a quick insight into which may be better for your case, we are highlighting the advantages and drawbacks of each option to help patients make informed decisions about their orthodontic treatment.
Invisalign vs Metal Braces: The Pros & Cons
Pros of Invisalign Clear Aligners
One of the outstanding qualities of Invisalign is that they are nearly invisible, making them a fantastic option for teens and adults who want a discreet option. Children who may feel self-conscious smiling with braces at school do not have to worry about that, and adults can continue with their professional activities without concern for their outward appearance.
Secondly, Invisalign aligners are removable. Therefore, there are no dietary restrictions for Invisalign, as you can take your aligners out to eat. This, additionally, is beneficial for oral hygiene. Since the aligners can be removed, patients can eat, brush, and floss completely as normal, making normal daily activities easier.
Cons of Invisalign Clear Aligners
While Invisalign can be removed for eating and oral hygiene, they still need to be worn 20-22 hours per day for the best results. This can be challenging for some patients, whether due to remembering to wear them or simply having the resolve to keep their aligners in. Some patients experience a lisp or tightness when switching to a new tray, which can make them self-conscious and unwilling to wear their aligners in public.
Another common concern is the management of one’s Invisalign aligners. Aligners are made of medical-grade plastic, so they can be easily lost or damaged if not handled properly. We have seen countless cases where teens have placed their aligners in a napkin during lunch and then accidentally thrown them away. It takes considerable responsibility to manage one’s Invisalign properly.
Lastly, while Invisalign is excellent for most cases, it may not be recommended for severe bite corrections or more complex movements. Of course, your orthodontist will advise during your consultation whether or not Invisalign is an appropriate course of action for your specific case.
Pros of Metal Braces
One of the top benefits of choosing metal braces is that they can handle complex cases, including severe crowding, bite issues, or rotated teeth. They are the ultimate go-to choice, able to solve nearly every issue.
Second, metal braces are relatively foolproof. They are fixed to the teeth, meaning that sticking to a wear schedule is not required. This is ideal for individuals who may not be consistent enough to self-manage, as they would not have to worry about forgetting to wear them.
Lastly, metal braces are durable and reliable. They provide the support and stability necessary for more complex cases, and they are often an incredibly predictable treatment method that has withstood the test of time.
Cons of Metal Braces
While metal braces are highly durable, they can cause more initial discomfort or irritation to the cheeks and lips than other solutions. This can make the adjustment period a little longer, causing brief speech impediments. However, patients typically quickly adjust, usually within a couple of days to a week.
Secondly, metal braces are visible on the teeth. While children and teens often adjust quickly to their new smile since they can personalize their braces with colored bands, some patients may be affected by the appearance. Adults, in particular, often find metal braces challenging when working in professional situations.
Additionally, metal braces do require dietary restrictions to prevent damaging the brackets, such as no sticky, hard, or crunchy foods. On top of that, oral hygiene can take more time, as it is more challenging to brush thoroughly and floss one’s teeth around the braces. This can require some changes to one’s regular daily routine, but patients typically adapt quickly.
Invisalign vs Metal Braces: Factors to Consider When Choosing
When debating Invisalign vs metal braces, there are a few factors to consider before making a final decision.
First, you will have a consultation with your orthodontist to determine which treatments you are eligible for. As we mentioned earlier, some cases may not be compatible with Invisalign, which may limit your options. However, if you are eligible for both metal braces and Invisalign, the following considerations need to be taken into account.
Next will be your budget, and if you have insurance coverage. If you do not have coverage, we suggest getting a treatment estimate from your orthodontist for each treatment option to determine which option is best for you financially.
If both treatment options are available and within your budget, the next aspect to consider is lifestyle. Whether you are going to be the patient or you are the parent of the patient, we suggest taking into account the following:
1. The willingness of the patient to follow through with the wear schedule or maintenance.
Young children, forgetful teens, or inconsistent adults may struggle with remembering to wear Invisalign aligners. Therefore, it may be better to choose metal braces to avoid unnecessary risk. However, if the patient is diligent and responsible, Invisalign may be the preferred choice.
2. The lifestyle of the patient.
Every patient has a unique lifestyle. From playing instruments and sports to performing plays or leading professional meetings, orthodontic appliances can affect one’s day-to-day activities. We suggest reviewing the day-to-day life of the patient with your orthodontist for insights on what would work best for them.
3. The personal preferences of the patient.
While some patients may not care about the aesthetic impact of their appliances, others will. We suggest asking the patient about their personal preferences, as it is their smile and their teeth that will be undergoing treatment.
Why a Consultation Is Essential in the Invisalign vs Metal Braces Debate
While this information may have provided you with a base understanding of the pros and cons of Invisalign vs metal braces, only an orthodontist can truly assess which treatment is best for your unique smile.
At Greg Brown Orthodontics, patients receive a personalized plan to meet both cosmetic goals and long-term dental health needs, factoring in their personal preferences, lifestyle choices, and capabilities.
Still deciding between Invisalign and braces? Schedule a free consultation with Greg Brown Orthodontics to find out which option is best for your smile.
