Many adults and teenagers are choosing Invisalign braces over traditional braces for straightening their smile. This is because the clear aligners are invisible and won’t leave you with a mouth full of metal.

They can also be removed when eating and brushing your teeth, which is something that you cannot do with traditional braces.

1. Discreet

While traditional braces can be a great option for certain orthodontic issues, Invisalign offers a sleek and discreet alternative. The clear aligners are made from smooth and comfortable plastic, eliminating the sharp wires and brackets of traditional braces that can irritate your tongue and mouth.

Invisalign trays are also easier to clean. While they require regular cleaning to remove a sticky film of bacteria, rinsing them with water or specialized cleaning solutions is a simple way to keep your trays fresh and clean during your treatment.

You should also remember to take out your aligners before eating or drinking, as food particles can stain the trays. This will help you maintain good oral hygiene and avoid bad breath, cavities and other problems that may result from poor dental care while wearing Invisalign.

2. Easier to Clean

Unlike metal braces, clear aligners do not have any nooks and crannies where food can get stuck. Keeping your teeth clean during Invisalign treatment is not difficult as you can simply remove the trays when eating or drinking.

On the other hand, metal braces require dietary restrictions and it is not uncommon for food particles to get trapped in the wires or brackets. In addition, some patients experience temporary tooth discoloration in the area where the metal braces sit on their teeth.

Both types of orthodontics can provide you with the straight smile you desire, but Invisalign is a more convenient and comfortable option than metal braces. If you are interested in learning more about Invisalign and how it can help you with crooked teeth, an overbite or underbite, set up an appointment at Lansdowne Family Dental.

3. Comfortable

The smooth plastic material and custom fit of Invisalign aligners make them more comfortable to wear than traditional metal braces. While you may experience some initial discomfort or sensitivity when you first begin wearing your aligners, this will improve as your mouth adjusts. You can minimize discomfort by using over-the-counter pain relievers and following your orthodontist’s instructions on proper tooth brushing and flossing.

Invisalign is also nearly invisible, so you won’t have to worry about the look of your smile while you’re undergoing treatment. Adult patients love that colleagues and clients can’t see that they have braces on their teeth, and self-conscious teens appreciate that they don’t have to deal with the embarrassment of a mouth full of wires and brackets. This means that you can get back to focusing on your work or social life without having to avoid smiling.

4. Removable

Unlike traditional braces, removable aligners can be taken out when eating, brushing, and cleaning. This can make it easier to keep teeth clean and reduce the risk of plaque buildup, gum disease, or bad breath.

However, they need to be worn for 20 to 22 hours each day to see the best results. If patients are tempted to slip their aligners out more often, they may not achieve the results they want.

Orthodontists recommend visiting around once a month to check progress and get new trays. Patients who choose Invisalign over braces can save themselves a handful of appointments and enjoy a straighter smile more quickly. But, if you have more complex issues like bite or crowding problems, Invisalign may not be the right option for you.

5. Faster

Traditional metal braces are comprised of a set of metal brackets that are glued to each tooth and connected by wires. Over time, they are tightened to help shift and straighten teeth. These types of braces can be difficult to wear and may cause discomfort and long treatment durations.

Invisalign clear aligners are typically more comfortable to wear and can be removed for eating, brushing and flossing. They also have a shorter treatment timeline than fixed braces in many cases.

While it’s important to consult with your orthodontist to ensure a personalized treatment plan for you, studies have found that Invisalign patients often have a faster time to their ideal smile than those wearing fixed braces. This is due to fewer in-office adjustments and quicker tooth movement.