Invisalign vs. Braces

High Quality East Orlando Orthodontic Treatments

While metal braces used to be the only orthodontic treatment option available, modern orthodontic technology has created a variety of new alternatives - foremost of which is Invisalign. Invisalign offers a number of advantages as an orthodontic treatment ranging from aesthetics and convenience to comfort, but traditional braces come with advantages of their own. So which is better: braces or Invisalign? At the office of Dr. Ross Taddeo, our mission is to help you achieve the smile of your dreams as conveniently as possible - so here are the pros and cons of Invisalign and braces.

 

Invisalign

Invisalign is an exciting alternative treatment that comes with a number of unique benefits, but also some drawbacks. Here are the pros and cons of Invisalign:

Pros

It's hard to beat Invisalign for convenience. The aligners are almost invisible when worn, so you won't have to worry about having braces for pictures or other milestones, and you can take them out to eat and maintain oral hygiene. This makes them both aesthetically pleasing and convenient for virtually any lifestyle. Furthermore, the aligners lay flat on the teeth and are smooth to the touch, making them one of the most comfortable orthodontic treatments available.

Cons

With being said, Invisalign does come with drawbacks. For starters, Invisalign is generally a more expensive treatment than braces. We also can't use rubber bands to shift the alignment of the jaws with Invisalign, so it may not be right for all orthodontic cases.

 

Traditional Metal Braces

While they may be less flashy, braces still come with their own unique benefits and drawbacks.

Pros

Braces are the oldest treatment in orthodontic care, and they're also the most reliable. Braces can treat virtually any orthodontic condition effectively, making them an almost universal option for patients. Braces are also a sturdy form of treatment that are unlikely to break. Finally, traditional metal braces are among the least expensive forms of treatment, making them a highly cost-effective option for orthodontic care.

Cons

Braces come with obvious downsides. The metal brackets and wires, while smaller and more discreet than ever before, are still clearly visible from the outside, sometimes posing a nuisance in photographs or social situations. The sharp corners of brackets can also poke into the cheeks, causing tiny cuts and scrapes that may be uncomfortable. Finally, braces can be damaged by certain kinds of food and require patients to avoid hard, sticky, or sugary foods during treatment.

 

Schedule a Consultation with Your Orlando, FL Orthodontist

So, which is better? The answer is it depends! Every patient is different and has a unique set of needs, and ultimately, it's up to you and Dr. Taddeo to decide which is the ideal treatment for you. If you'd like to learn more about the differences between Invisalign and braces, feel free to call us at (407) 482-3700. If you'd like to find out which treatment is right for you, just request a consultation using our easy online form. We hope to hear from you soon, and we look forward to helping you achieve a beautiful new smile - whether through braces or Invisalign!