Invisalign® vs. Braces

Understanding the key differences between Invisalign®and braces is essential for selecting the right orthodontic treatment.

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Invisalign® and traditional braces are the two most popular ways to straighten out a patient’s teeth quickly and effective over a few months or years span. Both are practiced widely in professional dentist and orthodontist offices around the world, and deliver stunning results. At Mint Dental Loft, we consistently utilize both methods to help patients meet their dental goal of a straighter smile.

Comparing Traditional Braces vs. Invisalign®

The way that traditional braces and Invisalign® work is a little different from one another. Traditional braces are made of metal, and utilize wires, bands, and brackets to straighten teeth. A braces patient will need to visit the dentist more regularly, to have his/her braces tightened. Each visit, the braces will be tightened and become closer and closer to the goal. 

 

Invisalign® is clear, high-grade plastic trays that are custom-made to fit a patient’s mouth. Every 1-2 weeks, the patient will receive a new set of aligners. As the patient progresses further and further into the dental plan, the aligners will become closer and closer to the goal of what their teeth should look like by the end. This means that each week, your aligners will have very few and small adjustments, but will slowly help to move and shift your teeth in the right direction. 

The Pros and Cons of Invisalign®

Pros

There are a number of both advantages and disadvantages to using Invisalign®, especially compared to braces. If you are considering which dental service is the right choice for you, then it may be good to weigh the pros and cons in the list below:

It is clear, so it does not attract attention the way traditional braces do.

It makes brushing, flossing, and eating easier.

It requires less dental appointments, since there is no manual tightening done by the dentist.

You can eat whatever you want without getting worried that food will get stuck in your braces.

They are extremely comfortable. 

Cons

Invisalign® can be more expensive than braces. 

Braces do a better job of treating dental problems compared to Invisalign®. Invisalign® is better for mild and moderate bite issues only.

They are easy to lose, since you must take them in and out all day.

The Pros and Cons of Braces

The method of using braces to straighten a patient’s teeth has been utilized in the industry for decades. This is because braces do a phenomenal job shifting teeth to the goal quickly and effectively. However, since Invisalign® has emerged, patients are now torn between which method is best. Below outlines the advantages and disadvantages to braces, so you can which method is best for you:

Pros

It fixes all bite issues, no matter how severe.

They have been around longer than Invisalign®.

They reduce grinding and chipped teeth.

Braces are a great way to straighten out your teeth.

It can be the cheaper option.

Cons

It is harder to brush your teeth with braces than Invisalign®. This also causes an increase for gum infections. 

They attract attention that some patients do not want.

You can’t eat certain foods with braces.

There are more dentist appointments to tighten the wires.

They are not as overall comfortable as Invisalign® aligners are.

Which Is Right for You?

The only person that can decide whether braces or Invisalign® is the right choice for you, is you. When choosing between both, the best thing you can do is talk to your dentist. They will explain to you your two options, what they believe will be best for you in your unique situation, and then you will be left to ultimately decide. No matter what choice you make, you can find solace in the fact that the end result will be straight, beautiful teeth!

Let's Straighten That Smile

 If you are deciding between Invisalign® and braces, there’s no reason to worry. At Mint Dental, we will help you to create a custom dental plan that works for you, your budget, and meets all your goals. For more information or to address any questions or concerns, give us a call at (626) 768-2556 today!

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Contact Us

For more information about Invisalign® versus braces or to schedule an appointment, call us at (626) 768-2556 or visit our contact page.

What Makes Mint Dental Loft Different

Mint Dental Loft combines advanced dental care with personalized attention, ensuring comfort and tailored treatment for every patient.

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Mint Dental Loft Is a Digital Smile Design Clinic

Mint Dental Loft in Altadena, CA, has been designated as a Digital Smile Design (DSD) Clinic, acknowledging their commitment to incorporating advanced technology and communication for a superior dental experience. The clinic offers "Trial Smile" previews and benefits from a network of shared professional best practices. Achieving DSD status involved comprehensive training and evaluations, positioning Mint Dental Loft to deliver enhanced, personalized, and conservative dental care to their patients.

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