Having misaligned teeth can become a significant health issue, prevent the practice of optimal oral health, and detract from self-esteem. At Bronsky Orthodontics, our expert orthodontists and staff pride themselves on their experience with traditional stainless steel (metal) braces, Invisalign® clear aligner therapy, and a variety of other appliances and braces to create an optimal bite and killer smile! With our commitment to utilizing state-of-the-art technology, we’re able to offer many efficient orthodontic treatments that are individually tailored to you.
Metal braces have traditionally been the most common and effective way to straighten teeth. For certain orthodontic issues, they remain the best option for treatment. However, many patients now have the option to utilize removable clear aligner orthodontic therapy to achieve their ideal smile. Invisalign® is the most popular brand of clear aligners and the brand we use for clear aligner therapy at our practice. We are proud to be VIP Diamond+ providers in the top 1% of Invisalign® providers.
Below are our thoughts on the pros and cons of Invisalign® vs traditional metal braces. We hope this information will allow you to make a more informed decision for your orthodontic treatment plan at Bronsky Orthodontics.
Traditional metal braces cause the cosmetic appearance of the mouth to look different as the metal archwires and brackets are visible. However, many patients enjoy customizing their braces with fun color combinations to reflect their personality and style! Additionally, with alternative types of braces, such as ceramic braces or lingual braces, it is possible to get a more discreet look.
Invisalign® clear aligners are designed to match a patient’s tooth shade and blend into the natural oral environment. However, Invisalign® clear aligner therapy often includes attachments (tiny bumps of composite resin that are placed onto teeth) and can include rubber bands as well. It’s important to remember that no treatment type is completely undetectable.
With metal braces, there may be some discomfort in the days following the initial application of the braces and after adjustment appointments. This can be easily alleviated by eating soft foods and alternating between Advil® and Tylenol® as needed. Additionally, the metal wires and brackets of braces can poke cheeks and irritate the oral tissues – particularly at the beginning of treatment. This can be easily addressed by applying orthodontic wax to the end of the wire or bracket that is causing discomfort. In a couple of days, your body will adapt to the feeling of having braces!
Invisalign® patients can also experience discomfort in the first few days after starting a new clear aligner tray. This can be alleviated in the same way as with braces. Since Invisalign® is made of clear plastic, there is no chance of wires or brackets poking your cheek.
It is important to spend extra time brushing and flossing while wearing braces to ensure that plaque does not build up around the brackets. Daily maintenance with braces can also include wearing intermaxillary elastics (rubber bands). Aside from these two items, and remembering to avoid certain foods, braces do not require a lot of maintenance or thought throughout the day. This makes them a great fit for kids or those with busy lifestyles.
Invisalign® clear aligner appliances are removable allowing easy access to teeth for oral hygiene and no restrictions on food. However, Invisalign® treatment does require more day-to-day maintenance. Patients must remember to wear their aligners ~20-22 hours per day and remove them every time they eat or drink anything other than water. After eating or drinking, patients should brush their teeth (or at least do a thorough rinse with water if brushing is not possible) to ensure that their aligners are only placed on clean teeth. Additionally, patients must wash their aligners twice a day. Invisalign® treatment may also include intermaxillary elastics.
Both traditional braces and Invisalign® have similar treatment durations if compliance is optimal. For braces, treatment time can be extended if brackets break regularly but this should be rare if you are following the care instructions. For Invisalign®, treatment time can be extended if aligners are not worn ~20-22 hours per day.
Even with optimal compliance, there are some cases where traditional braces will be more effective and efficient and others that would be better suited for Invisalign®. To find out which treatment modality would be best for you, schedule a consultation with Bronsky Orthodontics.
Overall, Invisalign® offers many advantages over traditional metal braces. With comfortable, removable trays, no sharp edges, and a shortened treatment time, Invisalign® is a great alternative to metal braces if more complicated orthodontic problems aren’t present. Get in touch with Bronsky Orthodontics with two offices in TriBeCa and The Upper East Side today for all of your Invisalign® questions or concerns! Regardless of which orthodontic treatment plan you are eligible for, our staff at Bronsky Orthodontics can’t wait to help you achieve the beautiful smile you deserve!
