Invisalign or Braces: Which to Choose?

By Boris Arbitman, DDS

We know that when it comes to straightening smiles, traditional braces are a tried-and-true orthodontic treatment. Meanwhile, we’re hearing more about Invisalign and Invisalign Teen, both from the company itself and professional providers. In this post, I will discuss my perspective as well as the merits and drawbacks of each treatment.

Traditional Braces

In the past, traditional braces have been the only option to correct issues like crowding, overbite or underbite. Brackets cemented to the tooth hold a wire that runs lengthwise to apply pressure, moving teeth into place with ties that secure wires to the brackets. A patient realizes slight adjustments over time as the orthodontist makes adjustments at each appointment.

Invisalign/Invisalign Teen

Invisalign and Invisalign Teen are clear plastic dental appliances that offer patients an alternative to traditional braces. Your orthodontist takes a digital scan of the teeth, creating a 3D image used to produce a series of aligners made from a clear material worn by the patient almost all day (they should only be taken out to eat and brush/floss). Each aligner is configured to adjust the teeth according to a predetermined treatment plan mapped out by the orthodontist.

Benefits

Traditional Braces

• Tried and true technology
• Office visits every six weeks
• Compliance is virtually guaranteed as there are no decisions about whether to wear or not to wear them

Invisalign/Invisalign Teen
• Virtually invisible for aesthetic appeal
• Office visits can often be spread out for fewer appointments
• No limitations regarding food
• Patients can brush and floss easily

Drawbacks

Traditional Braces

• Metal (or even ceramic) brackets and wires are visible
• Discomfort from poking wires or brackets that rub the inner portion of the lips
• Broken brackets that cause “emergency appointments”

Invisalign/Invisalign Teen
• Compliance can sometimes be a challenge, especially with younger patients
• Lost aligners can delay total treatment time
• Not everyone is a candidate, depending on the issues

What’s right for you

The decision to opt for Invisalign or Invisalign Teen over braces can be a difficult one and there are many factors to consider for both the patient and orthodontist. Invisalign allows for more freedom and is virtually invisible compared to braces, but compliance is key regarding successful results.

Before making your decision, remember there are trade-offs with each treatment, and you will need to consult your orthodontist to determine the most effective option to perfect your smile!

At Arbitman Orthodontics we offer complimentary new patient exams. You can visit our website at: www.arbitmanortho.com to learn more about our practice or call us at (718) 848-6900 in Howard Beach and (929) 462-1055 in Forest Hills to schedule your free consultation today!

Don’t forget to check out our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/arbitmanorthodontics for more information about our practice and to read patient reviews.