American adults getting their teeth fixed is on the rise. In fact, 27% of orthodontic patients in the US and Canada are adults, according to the AAO.
Adults prefer to opt for the more discreet option, however; the most popular methods being clear braces or Invisalign.
But when it comes to weighing up the two, which one is best for you: Invisalign vs clear braces?
Perks of Invisalign
Invisalign comes in the form of clear – or ‘invisible’ – plates that can be put in and removed from your mouth. These are certainly the better option if you are aiming for total discretion.
Unless you study someone’s mouth with precision while they wear their plates, they are incredibly hard to notice. While clear braces do a great job of covering up the retainer adhered to a patients’ teeth, they are still a little more obvious.
Invisalign plates are also changed every week or two weeks, depending on your treatment plan. This means they are subjected to much less food, drink, wear, and tear than the permanent fixed clear braces.
Opting for Invisalign means you can remove the plates to eat or drink, reducing the risk of damage or staining. Because they can be removed, your teeth are arguably kept more thoroughly clean when it comes to Invisalign vs clear braces, too.
Another perk to Invisalign is how comfortable they are. When a patient has braces attached to their teeth, they are there constantly and are often sharper, causing possible inner mouth or gum irritation.
Invisalign is known to feel a little more natural. Some feel no discomfort at all when they wear their trays. There is often discomfort when you change your plates every week or two, but this is minimal. Discomfort is an overall downside to getting orthodontic treatment and cannot be totally avoided.
Perks of Clear Braces
With braces, you are not able to stray away from your treatment plan. But with Invisalign, as you are told to remove them for eating and drinking, it can be a problem to remember to put them back in.
You are told to make sure your trays are in place at least 22 hours of every day. This can be difficult for some people. However, clear braces are fixed to your teeth and can’t go anywhere. You are therefore at less risk of your dental treatment is disrupted.
While day-to-day Invisalign trays are swapped every week or two, this does mean there is more often a change in the way they sit in your mouth. Braces, by contrast, are adjusted every five or six weeks, so arguably only cause temporary discomfort then.
Because dentists must keep an eye on their Invisalign patients more diligently, it may prove less hassle to commit to clear braces. On top of this, braces are usually better when it comes to complex dental treatment.
Although Invisalign is a little more discreet, they may simply not be as effective in tackling the problem. Trays are better for minor straightening. If you have very obvious issues, or your teeth need major restructuring work, braces will be a better choice for you.
Invisalign vs Clear Braces?
It’s really down to you and your orthodontist to discuss the Invisalign vs clear braces debate. This way you can weigh up which is right for you.
But the above should help you mull over the pros and cons. For much more advice, check out the health section of our site. From dentistry to vaping to symptoms of a stroke, there’s plenty to keep you informed.
