Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces: Which Is Right for You?

Braces are the traditional solution to crooked or otherwise improperly laid out teeth, and they have done a great job correcting the smiles of countless people over the last few decades. However, as with any type of technology, things advance, and new solutions become available. 

That’s where Invisalign comes in. It’s marketed as the next evolution of traditional braces, and it does provide many benefits, but are they worth it? Should you choose it over braces right now, or do those older options still have plenty of value to offer? 

We’ll break down the pros and cons of Invisalign vs traditional braces to help you figure out what’s best for your smile. 

What is Invisalign? 

We’ll assume that you’re fully aware of what traditional braces are since they’ve been so common for decades that nearly everyone has seen them in action. While Invisalign isn’t brand-new, it is new enough that it’s not something everyone is fully aware of. 

At its core, Invisalign is the same general concept as traditional braces. It just takes everything to the next level.

Instead of using a series of wires and brackets that are regularly tightened to pull the teeth into a uniform spacing and line up, Invisalign is more like a transparent mouthguard that slowly reshapes your smile. 

This produces a much bigger difference in performance than you might think despite being the same general idea. 

How Invisalign and Traditional Braces Differ

Despite being so similar, Invisalign and traditional braces perform completely differently, and they have different pros and cons. 

We’ll go over each one individually and then summarize who each one is best for. 

The Pros and Cons of Traditional Braces

Traditional braces work. They’ve been used for decades. However, they have major drawbacks, too. 

1. Affordability

In comparison to Invisalign, traditional braces are more affordable. This is how it is with practically everything. If you buy the older “product” that has become a staple in everyday lives, it’s typically a lot less expensive than getting the latest and greatest thing. 

So, if you’re on a budget and looking for an affordable dentist, traditional braces are likely to be more affordable. With that being said, prices on both solutions fluctuate depending on what you need and the state of your teeth. Invisalign isn’t necessarily expensive. 

2. Discomfort

Everyone knows what traditional braces are, and unfortunately, everyone who has had them knows how uncomfortable they can be. It’s probably safe to say this is one of the reasons some people avoid going to the dentist for years.

Braces are simply wires bracketed to your teeth and then tightened incrementally to pull them in the right direction. 

That’s not the most pleasant experience, and you typically have to wait up to two years to see the final results. That’s a lot of time to deal with that feeling. 

3. Dietary Restrictions

Traditional braces do restrict your diet quite a bit. You don’t want to risk pulling the brackets off your teeth or damaging the wires. In general, it’s always best to eat healthy foods that are good for your teeth, but if you’re wearing braces, sticky foods are especially off-limits.

Other foods that easily get stuck between teeth or with the braces themselves are also restricted because it’s harder to clean your mouth properly when you have braces. 

This doesn’t sound too bad, but it makes you refrain from eating a lot of the most popular foods, and you notice how restricted you are pretty quickly. 

4. Installation is a Pain

Before we move on to Invisalign, there’s one more thing you need to know about traditional braces. Installation is not exactly easy, even for good and experienced dentists.

Braces are installed by cementing a bracket to each of your teeth, and then wires are added to those brackets. This takes time, and it’s not comfortable. That’s before you get to the tuning process, when the dentist tightens them up. 

To make it worse, you have to go back to the dentist to have them adjusted as your teeth pull together. 

The Pros and Cons of Invisalign

Invisalign improves on many of the factors we discussed and has some new benefits that are worth talking about. However, it’s not perfect, either. 

1. Comfort is Greatly Enhanced

Comfort is a major factor for most patients. Invisalign is what’s known as a clear aligner, which makes it one of the most effective ways to straighten your teeth without traditional braces.

The mouthpiece is sized and shaped just right to gently move the teeth into the right position. There’s a little discomfort, but it’s nowhere near what you can expect with braces. 

You also get to take Invisalign out when you want. You need to keep it in so your teeth can be straightened, but when you want a bit of comfort or need to eat, you can take your mouthpiece out, have a bit of time to feel relieved, and put it back in. It’s not a constant thing like braces are. 

2. No Dietary Restrictions

Before we talk about this one, you do still need to consider your dental health when choosing what to eat and drink. However, because Invisalign is easily removed, you can afford to have a treat every once in a while without worrying about messing up the Invisalign equipment. 

3. Invisible

Anyone who has had braces knows that society isn’t exactly as kind as it should be. Especially children and teens. Even with adults, there can be a sense of embarrassment. 

Invisalign is practically impossible to spot unless someone is looking very closely at your smile. 

There’s no reason to be embarrassed whether you use Invisalign or traditional braces, but there’s also a clear benefit to them not being noticeable. 

4. Installation is Easy

Instead of having to go through a lengthy setup, Invisalign is simply a series of mouthguard-like pieces you wear. 

You start with one that gently starts to pull your teeth together, and every once in a while, you switch to one that’s a little tighter. By the time you get to the last in the series, you have a perfect smile. 

5. It Costs More

Unfortunately, Invisalign costs more than braces. 

6. Not Everyone Can Use Invisalign

Invisalign is a great option for many, but it’s not good for people with serious alignment issues or damaged teeth with lots of cavities. 

Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces - Which Is Best for You?

When it comes to Invisalign vs traditional braces, the right choice depends on your specific needs, goals, and overall oral health.

If you have a straightforward case of crooked or gapped teeth and the budget for it, Invisalign is a comfortable, discreet, and effective option. 

However, for more complex alignment issues or underlying dental concerns, traditional braces or additional treatments may be necessary to achieve the best results. No matter which option you’re considering, expert guidance is key.

At Sola Dental Spa, we take a comprehensive approach to your oral health. 

In addition to orthodontics and general restorative dentistry, we also offer a full range of advanced services – including dental implants, porcelain veneers, complete smile makeovers, and even complementary dental spa treatments – all designed to help you feel confident about every aspect of your smile.

Contact us today, and take your first step towards a smile that’s both healthy and beautiful!

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