Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces: What Are the 5 Key Differences

If you’re in Rainier Valley, Columbia City, Beacon Hill or Seward Park and are considering orthodontics, Green Leaf Dental is here to help. At our Seattle dental office, Dr. Yoni offer honest advice as you explore your options for straightening your teeth.

Two of the most common orthodontic treatments are Invisalign and traditional metal braces. Wondering which one is right for you? Here are a few things to consider:

1. Invisalign Is Totally Invisible When Worn

The biggest difference between Invisalign and braces is aesthetic. While braces use highly-visible brackets, wires, and rubber elastics to correct your smile, Invisalign uses clear, smooth plastic aligners, which look similar to a retainer.

When worn, Invisalign is nearly invisible. The plastic is thin, clear, and fits over your teeth seamlessly. Nobody will be able to see your aligners, and they won’t affect your speech. In contrast, braces are much more noticeable and bulky and can be quite uncomfortable while you get used to them in your mouth. ‍

2. Traditional Braces Are More Versatile Than Invisalign

When it comes to versatility and the range of orthodontic issues that can be treated, braces are the winner. Invisalign is great for minor-to-moderate orthodontic problems like gaps, slightly crowded or crooked teeth, and other small issues.

However, when it comes to correcting seriously crooked teeth or major bite problems, traditional braces are much more effective and are usually a more effective alternative.‍

3. Invisalign Can Be Removed to Eat, Drink, and Care for Your Teeth

Unlike braces, you can take Invisalign out to eat and drink, so there are no dietary restrictions. You can also take your aligners out to clean your teeth, which allows you to maintain a higher level of oral hygiene as it is much trickier to brush and floss properly with traditional braces. However, it is important to avoid taking your aligners out too much. Invisalign should be worn for 20-22+ hours per day to ensure you stay on track with treatment. If you don't wear your aligners enough, your treatment will be delayed.

4. Traditional Braces Require Regular Tightening Appointments

Braces require you to come in for an appointment every 4-6 weeks to have them tightened. This is not required with Invisalign. You’ll only have to come to Green Leaf Dental for a brief checkup about every 6 weeks so we can track the progress of your treatment and so you can pick up your new sets of aligners.‍

5. Invisalign Is More Comfortable Than Braces 

Compared to braces, Invisalign is more comfortable. It exerts a gentle, even pressure to correct the position of teeth, so it tends to cause less discomfort than braces. Also, there are no sharp metal wires or brackets that can poke and irritate your oral tissue like your lips, gums, and cheeks.‍

Wondering What’s Right for You? Schedule an Orthodontic Consultation Now! 

At Green Leaf Dental, Dr. Yoni can help you explore all of your orthodontic options. Not sure which treatment is right for you? Schedule an appointment now, and we can help you choose between Invisalign and braces, and get the smile you’ve always wanted. Give us a call now at (206) 316-2351, or stop by our office at 4219 S Othello Street, #105-D&E, Seattle, WA 98118.