Invisalign vs. Braces: Which is Better?

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Invisalign vs. Braces: Which is Better?
Posted on 05/09/2022

Choices, choices! Gone are the days when there was only a singular option for correcting your teeth. Today, there are multiple options available when it comes to orthodontic treatments. After determining a course of action, Dr. Mark Huls at Huls Orthodontics will help you choose which avenue best suits your needs, preferences, and lifestyle.

So, You’re Ready for Orthodontic Treatment?

If the time has come to choose your tooth battling weapon, it’s important to know the pros and cons to determine the clear winner. Ultimately, both Invisalign and traditional braces serve the same purpose - to correct and straighten your teeth. Knowing which is right for you can depend on several factors.

The Pros of Invisalign

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment consisting of clear, plastic aligners that are custom-fitted for your mouth. The pros of Invisalign are:

  • They are clear and therefore virtually invisible.
  • They tend to be more comfortable, with no metal to rub on your gum line. And, because they are removable:
  • You don’t have to give up your favorite foods.
  • Oral hygiene is easier to maintain.
  • They can be taken out for special occasions or photo ops.

The Cons of Invisalign

Invisalign is an amazing choice for many people. However, like with most things, there are drawbacks as well:

  • Invisalign is not an option for more complex needs.
  • It requires commitment and discipline. You will have to remove your aligners every time you want to eat or drink anything other than water, but you will also have to brush each time you place them back in. To avoid extending treatment, they also need to be worn as much as possible, preferably up to 22 hours per day.

The Pros of Braces

Braces consist of brackets bonded to the front of your teeth and connected by an archive to guide teeth' incorrect placement. Pros of braces include:

  • Braces have been around for decades, and are very effective.
  • There are options - choose between traditional metal braces or clear braces.
  • Braces work for all types of straightening or correction needs, from simple to complex.
  • They stay on all the time, so you can’t lose them or forget to wear them.

The Cons of Braces

  • You can’t hide them, that’s for sure!
  • You will need to limit certain types of food and drink.
  • More regular visits to the orthodontist’s office.
  • More likely to cause mouth discomfort.

The Choice Between Invisalign or Braces

While we’d love to be able to answer this question for you, it is a choice to be made on a case-by-case basis. Both treatments are effective, similar in pricing, and come with their pros and cons. After you’ve been thoroughly evaluated, Dr. Huls will take into consideration the age of the patient and the severity of the dental issues to make a recommendation, and walk you through the options to help you decide what will fit in best with your life. Whichever way you go, you can feel confident in knowing that your Champaign IL orthodontic office will be treating you with amazing, individualized care.

Contact Huls Orthodontics today to request an appointment and get started on your braces or Invisalign adventure!