When it comes to straightening your teeth and creating a more confident and healthier smile, there are a couple of different ways to do that. At Glander Rochford Orthodontics, we treat patients with Invisalign, Ceramic or Clear Braces, and Traditional Metal Braces. Because of these different options, we hear patients asking us “What’s the difference between braces and Invisalign?”
A major difference between traditional metal braces and both invisalign and ceramic or clear braces is that traditional metal braces are very visible on the teeth. Clear braces and Invisalign both give the illusion that the patient doesn’t have something on his or teeth, making these both popular options for adults.
The Difference Between Clear Braces and Invisalign
Let’s start with the similarities.
Clear braces and Invisalign both:
Work as tools to create a straighter and healthier smile
Are both harder to see visible on your teeth when compared to traditional metal braces
There are a couple of similarities between clear braces and Invisalign, but there are many more differences:
Clear braces:
Clear braces have brackets and a wire secured to your teeth very similar to traditional metal braces.
Clear braces can feel rough on the mouth cheeks and tongue and may take a little time to get used to.
The brackets of clear braces can get stained if you drink a lot of dark colored beverages or smoke.
When you have clear braces, you typically visit our office for an adjustment every 8-10 weeks.
Clear braces may make brushing and flossing your teeth more challenging.
Invisalign:
You can take Invisalign out of your mouth completely during meals, when consuming dark colored or sugary beverages, or when brushing your teeth.
There may be some attachments on your teeth, but they are much less visible than clear braces and are typically not on every tooth.
Invisalign takes some discipline, because you have to put the trays back in your mouth after meals and brushing your teeth and you have to switch to the next tray.
You will visit Glander Rochford Orthodontics much less frequently because we give you all of your trays at one appointment. We typically see Invisalign patients every 12 weeks.
There are pros and cons to braces and Invisalign, and we will help you figure out the best option for you when you complete a complimentary consultation.
If you are considering braces or Invisalign you can contact us on our website, by email at info@glanderrochfordorthodontics.com, or give us a call at (317) 888-2827.
We proudly serve the Indianapolis and Greenwood, Indiana communities.
