Traditional Braces vs. Invisalign: Which is Right for You in Aurora, CO?

At Southlands Orthodontics in Aurora, CO, Dr. Terrio and Dr. Mian are often asked, “Which should I get, Invisalign clear aligners or traditional braces?”  There isn’t a simple, one-size-fits-all answer. Both can correct misalignment and straighten crooked teeth, but the right option for you depends on your aesthetic goals, lifestyle needs, and budget. To help you decide which is right for you, take a few minutes to review the pros and cons of both traditional braces and Invisalign.

How Braces and Invisalign^® Work

Conventional braces use metal or ceramic brackets and wires to apply constant pressure to the teeth. This moves them gradually into place and can fix even the most severe orthodontic problems. They are not removable.

Invisalign^® also applies gentle pressure to move your teeth into their proper places. It uses a series of clear plastic aligners or trays that are custom-fabricated to fit snugly over your teeth. Every few weeks, you switch to a new set of aligners. They are removable, but have to be worn 20-22 hours a day for effective results.

Braces are proven to correct everything from mild to severe orthodontic problems. At the same time, Invisalign is most effective for mild to moderate correction.

Appearance & Aesthetics

It is apparent immediately that there are aesthetic differences between traditional braces and Invisalign. Braces are clearly visible, although today’s smaller brackets and options like ceramic or lingual braces can minimize their appearance.

Invisalign aligners are favored by many patients who prefer orthodontics that are nearly invisible so that their coworkers and friends do not notice them. Because clear aligners are also removable, they are preferable if you may need to remove them occasionally for photographs or special events.

Comfort, Convenience & Lifestyle

There are many considerations surrounding braces, aligners, and your comfort and lifestyle. Taking the time to think about which of these is most important to you will help you decide whether traditional braces or Invisalign will meet your needs. While both will cause temporary soreness after tightening appointments or when you switch to new aligners, there are ways they differ:

• Eating & Drinking: You can remove your Invisalign aligners to eat and drink, enjoying all your favorite foods without worrying about breaking wires or brackets. Braces require dietary restrictions (including hard, sticky, and crunchy foods) to prevent damage to them.
• Oral Care: Brushing and flossing your teeth with aligners is easy since you can remove them for cleaning. You have less risk of cavities and gum disease with Invisalign. Braces have to be cleaned very carefully to avoid trapped food debris and an increased risk of cavities or gum disease.
• Compliance: If you have the discipline to wear Invisalign^® 20-22 hours a day, you’ll get great results. But if you leave them out or forget to put them back in frequently, your treatment will take longer. Braces don’t require active compliance; they work 24/7, which may be better for teens or anyone who may otherwise be tempted to skip some days of treatment.
• Comfort: Braces can sometimes irritate delicate cheek tissues and gums. Orthodontic wax and eating soft foods can help minimize this. With Invisalign, you experience less irritation to soft tissues.
• Appointments at Southlands Orthodontics: We need to see you at least once a month to adjust your traditional braces so that progress continues. However, because you can switch your Invisalign trays at home, we can see you every six to eight weeks to monitor your progress. We always love to see you, but if your schedule is already packed, Invisalign means more time for other commitments.

In summary, if you want to let your braces “do their thing” without having to worry about remembering to use them or worrying about lost or damaged aligners, traditional braces are a good choice. If you are active and want a simple oral care routine with some flexibility built in, Invisalign may be a better choice.

Treatment Duration & Effectiveness

Orthodontic treatment using either traditional braces or Invisalign^® can take months or years, depending on the difficulty of the correction and how well a patient complies with their treatment plan. Braces typically take 18-36 months for mild to moderate correction, while Invisalign may take less time (12-18 months), but only if you are strict about wearing them every day for 20-22 hours. For more severe or complex orthodontic issues, traditional braces edge out Invisalign in terms of both treatment duration and effectiveness.

Cost & Insurance

The cost of traditional braces and Invisalign often compares favorably with each other. While the initial costs of Invisalign, including 3D design and fabrication, may be higher, there are fewer appointments required to monitor progress. Most dental insurance companies offer comparable coverage within your policy limits. Talk to your insurance provider and the team here at Southlands Orthodontics to determine the cost of each option.

Choosing What’s Right for You

The most appropriate orthodontic treatment for you is the one that works for your lifestyle and budget while effectively and comfortably improving your smile. The first step is a consultation with either Dr. Terrio or Dr. Mian to discuss your goals and create your treatment plan. Call us at Southlands Orthodontics Phone Number 720-453-2445 to take that first step toward your new smile.