For most patients, Invisalign® treatmnt is slightly faster than orthodontic correction with braces. On average, braces take 18 to 24 months to straighten the teeth. However, they can take up to 36 months in some adults. Invisalign treatment, by comparison, is often completed in just 12 to 18 months, even in cases of pronounced malocclusion.
Being faster than braces is one of many advantages enjoyed by Invisalign. Treatment with this option is less invasive, more comfortable, and requires fewer visits to our office. Moreover, the soft plastic aligners will not irritate sensitive oral tissue or interfere with participation in physical activities. And, because the aligners are removed for tooth cleaning, there are no dietary restrictions. As a result, you can continue eating a wide range of foods throughout the entire process.
Another advantage Invisalign enjoys is greater ease of teeth cleaning. With braces, brackets are attached to the teeth, preventing the optimal cleaning of their surfaces. Cleaning is further obstructed by wires, necessitating special tools to ensure proper oral health. Invisalign aligners are removed for brushing, flossing, and dental visits, eliminating these issues.
But is Invisalign More Permanent Than Braces?
Traditional braces have two primary parts: brackets, attached to the teeth, and archwire, strung in between the brackets. Teeth are straightened through manual archwire adjustments, which pull teeth into an ideal position.
Invisalign treatment uses a series of aligners to push teeth into their optimal position. Each aligner is designed to gently move the teeth to a specific degree until perfect alignment is obtained.
While there may be some difference between push vs. pull in the duration of treatment and patient comfort, neither option can permanently correct misalignment. Whether you choose braces or Invisalign, you will need to wear a retainer at night to maintain your results.
The dentists at The Smile Centre are pleased to offer braces and Invisalign to patients needing orthodontic treatment. Neither option is suitable for every need, but both can produce remarkable results in qualified candidates. We welcome the opportunity to meet with you, discuss your needs, evaluate your smile, and help you choose the best option.
Please call our Sarasota office at 941-351-4468 to schedule your consultation today.