Why Invisalign is Better and Faster than Braces

Invisalign is the modern approach to correcting and straightening teeth, and it uses a series of custom-made aligners created specifically for the wearer. These aligners are trays made of smooth plastic that are worn over the teeth. They work by gently and gradually shifting the teeth into place, based on the precise movements your dentist has planned.

With Invisalign you don’t have to deal with any metal brackets being attached to your teeth or wires being painfully tightened. You simply put in a new set of aligning trays every two weeks, and before you know it, your treatment is complete!

So What Makes Invisalign Better than Braces?

Well, besides the aforementioned lack of metal brackets and ever-tightening wires.

Comfort. Instead of those tiresome brackets and wires, Invisalign uses smooth and comfortable plastic aligners. You won’t have to deal with wires poking and irritating your mouth or getting cuts from any brackets.

Virtually Invisible. Invisalign is essentially invisible, which means you can feel more comfortable with your smile and all while correcting it. You’ll get the same great smile with minimal interference in your everyday life, and people won’t even know that you’re straightening your teeth.

Removable. Invisalign aligning trays, unlike traditional braces, are removable. This means easier cleaning, and brushing and flossing require less effort than if you were to have braces.

Freedom. Since Invisalign is removable, this means you have the freedom to eat whatever you want. Braces come with many food restrictions, and even without these restrictions, they still can, and often do, make eating an ordeal. This treatment has a minimal interference in how you live your day-to-day life.

Maintenance. Brushing brace brackets and wires often isn’t enough to completely clean your braces off. With Invisalign you get a built in cleaning system, or you can simply brush and rinse your trays in lukewarm water.

Is Invisalign Really Faster than Braces?

Treatment time ultimately comes down to individual patient needs, but most of the time, yes, Invisalign treatment is faster than braces. When you have braces you wear them 24/7, and most who get braces will have them on for about an average of 2 years. On the other hand, those with Invisalign wear their aligning trays between 22 and 24 hours a day, and their treatment lasts anywhere from 6 to 18 months usually.

What About Follow Up Visits and Treatment?

With braces you can expect to see your orthodontist for monthly follow ups. When you have Invisalign you change your aligning trays every two weeks, and you’ll usually have follow up visits every 4 to 6 weeks. And as for follow up treatment, both are essentially the same: you’ll need a positioner or retainer on an ongoing basis, most likely, and possibly only at night.

You might be wondering, is Invisalign right for me?
If you think your teeth need correcting and you're serious about seeking treatment, ask your dentist about Invisalign. Invisalign isn't right for everyone, but if it happens to be an appropriate solution for you, it would be an avenue worth considering.