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Orthodontics Can Be Confusing: How to Choose Between Invisalign or Braces

Dr. Zehra Syed

By Dr. Brandon Boggan

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Dr. Brandon Boggan

By Dr. Brandon Boggan

While getting an orthodontic consultation to begin the process of improving your smile and self-confidence is exciting, it can also be overwhelming and confusing. For some, deciding between braces and clear aligners (like Invisalign) can be difficult. Don't let various options deter you from beginning your journey. You want a beautiful, confident smile, but you need to figure out the advantages and disadvantages of braces and Invisalign; which one costs less, and how long will treatment take?


This blog will address these topics and help answer your questions so you can make an informed decision. Do your research, ask other people, read reviews and, by all means, consult with your orthodontist (don't be afraid to ask lots of questions). Some people are candidates for both braces and aligners, while others are best suited for either braces or Invisalign (clear aligners). Which is right for you? One of the best ways to answer this question is by getting expert advice from an orthodontist. Ensure your orthodontist has a lot of experience with clear aligners like Invisalign. Why? Because all orthodontists have been trained and have experience with braces and feel more comfortable recommending them. Some orthodontists have limited experience in clear aligner therapy. If you want Invisalign (clear aligners) and your orthodontist recommends braces, getting a second opinion may be a good option. 


In this article, we will look at the advantages and disadvantages (pros and cons) of braces and Invisalign to help guide you in the right direction. The cost of braces and Invisalign. We'll also take a look at the average treatment time for each.


INVISALIGN

Invisalign has been around for over 20 years. Invisalign is a series of clear, plastic aligners that straighten your teeth without braces (brackets and wires). Invisalign recommends wearing the aligners around 20 to 22 hours a day, only removing them to eat, brush and floss. The average treatment time is typically less than braces, likely because the orthodontic cases selected for Invisalign are simpler. Braces can handle more complex issues and therefore takes more time to complete.

Braces vs Invisalign infographic

Invisalign Pros

  • Clear (virtually invisible)
  • Removable
  • More comfortable
  • No brackets or wires
  • Protects against tooth wear (grinding or bruxism)
  • Fewer appointments (usually 12-week intervals)
  • Less school or work to miss
  • Easier to eat
  • Easier to clean 
  • Less treatment time on average


Invisalign Cons

  • Compliance with wearing them 20 to 22 hours/day
  • Removing them when eating in a social setting
  • Some tooth movements are better suited for braces
  • Aligners can be lost


Celebrities who have used Invisalign include:

  • Oprah Winfrey
  • Tom Cruise
  • Katherine Heigl
  • Eva Longoria
  • Gisele Bundchen
  • Serena Williams
  • Justin Bieber
  • Khloe Kardashian


METAL AND CERAMIC (CLEAR) BRACES

Generally, metal and ceramic braces consist of brackets and wires that straighten and correct your teeth and bite over time. Braces come in many different shapes, sizes, materials, and colors. In addition, there are different types of braces. Traditional braces (like metal braces - some people call them "color braces" because patients can choose which colors they want at each appointment) are very common. Another type of braces is clear braces (also known as ceramic braces or brackets). Getting "braces on" (placing the brackets and wires on the teeth) takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Straightforward braces cases can take only a few months, while the average time in treatment is about 22 months. Here is some great news, there is no discomfort associated with getting clear or metal braces placed on your teeth. So put your mind at ease because you will be in total comfort when you get braces. 


Braces Pros

  • Suited for any tooth movement or complexity
  • Less compliance is needed as braces are fixed onto teeth 
  • Choice between traditional braces (metal braces) or ceramic braces (clear braces) 
  • Color changes at each appointment (kids and adults love to choose their colors)


Braces Cons

  • Considered less esthetic
  • More difficulty eating, brushing, and flossing
  • Must be more careful eating and restricting certain foods
  • More appointments are needed (usually 4-8 week intervals)
  • More school or work missed
  • Less comfortable (sometimes brackets or wires can poke, causing irritations)


Celebrities who have had braces:

  • Emma Watson
  • Dakota Fanning
  • Gwen Stefani
  • Jaden Smith
  • Venus and Serena Williams
  • Kendall Jenner
  • Prince Harry
  • Kate Middleton
  • Britney Spears


What is the Cost Difference Between Braces and Invisalign (aligners)?

The cost of braces and Invisalign is the same at Ortho South, with Dr. Brandon Boggan and Dr. Zehra Syed. However, some orthodontists charge more for Invisalign simply because the price to make Invisalign is considerably more for the orthodontist. At Ortho South, we decided that cost should not be a deciding factor for our patients when choosing between Invisalign and braces. 


What Determines Length of Time in Treatment for Brace and Invisalign?

Click HERE for information on factors in length of treatment.


The time in treatment in both braces and Invisalign varies depending on several factors. The severity of orthodontic issues is the best indicator in predicting treatment length. Treatment can last a few weeks for minor cases or a few months (18 months or more) for more complex issues. The extent of crowding, or spacing of the teeth and the degree to which a person's bite is off can significantly contribute to orthodontic treatment length. The greater the extent of crowding/spacing and/or bite discrepancy, the longer the treatment time. Patients who have impacted teeth should also expect extended treatment times due to the complexity of moving an impacted tooth into the smile. Age can also be a contributing factor to treatment length. Older patients have fully formed and mature bones which can slow down how fast the teeth can move within the bones. Certain medications like hormone replacement, immunosuppressants, estrogen, and NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or aspirin) can also slow tooth movements. It's important to let your orthodontist know all the medications you're taking before starting treatment. Poor dental hygiene that results in tartar (or calculus) buildup, cavities, and gingivitis (gum inflammation) can delay your treatment progress and increase your treatment length. In addition, good or bad compliance can affect treatment length. Poor compliance with wearing rubber bands or continually breaking wires, brackets, Invisalign attachments, and missing appointments can contribute to more treatment time. 


Time of treatment for braces & invisalign

What Factors Determine Treatment Length for Braces or Invisalign?

  • The severity of crooked teeth
  • The amount of crowding
  • The amount of spacing
  • The degree of bite discrepancy
  • Impacted teeth
  • Age 
  • Medications
  • Poor dental hygiene
  • Poor compliance
  • Missed appointments
  • Broken brackets or wires


Want to know how long
your orthodontic treatment will take? 

The best way to determine the length of orthodontic treatment is to call 205-660-4224 or click Schedule Today for your complimentary orthodontic consultation. At your consultation, we will get a series of orthodontic records (including X-rays, photos, and a digital scan). Then Dr. Brandon Boggan or Dr. Zehra Syed will perform an orthodontic evaluation and make treatment recommendations for your specific needs, give you the cost of treatment and give you an estimated treatment time. 


For Your BEST Orthodontic Result

The most important part of any orthodontic treatment is your dental hygiene. The #1 recommendation for achieving excellent dental hygiene is simply removing all plaque from your teeth, gums, and tongue. Whether you are looking for braces or invisalign in Pelham or Calera or the surrounding Birmingham area we have got you covered. Call 205-660-4224 or click below.


Dr. Brandon Boggan

Brandon Boggan has been practicing orthodontics full-time since 1998. He is the Chief Smile Engineer and the CFO (Chief Fun Officer) at Ortho South in Pelham and Calera, Alabama. His love for people, marketing, and helping other orthodontists grow their practice led him to start a brand and website development and digital marketing company called Onboard Marketing Group. You can find Brandon on LinkedIn, OrthoSouth.com, or OnboardMG.com.

SCHEDULE TODAY

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Table of Contents Understanding Orthodontic Discomfort Braces Relief: A Comprehensive Guide Effective Braces Discomfort Management Navigating Aligner Soreness: Tips and Tricks The Art of Comfortable Orthodontic Treatment Bringing Comfort to Your Orthodontic Journey: More Than Just a Smile Introduction Welcome to Ortho South, where we prioritize your journey to a confident, happy smile. Dr. Brandon Boggan and Dr. Zehra Syed (Dr. Z) guide you through the nuances of orthodontic discomfort, ensuring you find comfort in every step of your journey to your new smile. Orthodontic treatment is a transformative process, and our mission is to make it as comfortable and rewarding as possible. Bringing Comfort to Your Orthodontic Journey: More Than Just a Smile At Ortho South, we understand that your orthodontic journey is not just about achieving a beautiful smile; it's about ensuring your comfort every step. Our warm and friendly team is here to perfect your smile and provide a comforting experience throughout your orthodontic adventure. A Supportive Team for Your Comfort Our commitment to your comfort extends beyond the orthodontic chair. The Ortho South team is dedicated to creating a warm and friendly environment, ensuring that you feel at ease from the moment you walk through our doors. A comforting atmosphere is the foundation for a positive orthodontic experience. Encouragement Throughout Your Orthodontic Journey Embarking on the path to a straighter smile can be a transformative experience. Our team is here to provide constant encouragement, cheering you on through every adjustment and milestone. We understand the importance of emotional support during your orthodontic journey and are committed to being your reliable cheerleaders. Comfort in Your Choice of Braces or Aligners Choosing the right orthodontic treatment is a significant decision. At Ortho South, we aim to provide you with the comfort of choice. Whether you opt for traditional braces or discreet aligners, we offer comprehensive guidance to ensure your choice aligns with your lifestyle, preferences, and comfort. Understanding Orthodontic Discomfort Embarking on orthodontic treatment can be overwhelming. Understanding the nature of orthodontic discomfort is crucial for a positive experience. Orthodontic discomfort is a natural part of the realignment process. This discomfort typically arises as your teeth adjust to the pressure applied by braces or aligners. Recognizing this discomfort as a temporary phase on your path to a beautiful smile is essential. Braces Discomfort vs. Aligner Soreness Distinguish between braces and aligner discomfort to tailor your approach. Braces may cause sore spots initially, while aligners can create pressure as they shift your teeth. Understanding these differences empowers you to navigate discomfort effectively. Personalized Tips from Dr. Boggan and Dr. Z: Braces vs. Aligners Our orthodontic experts, Dr. Boggan and Dr. Z, recommend staying hydrated and using a soft-bristled toothbrush for optimal oral care during braces treatment. These personalized tips ensure you receive tailored advice for your unique journey. BRACES Embracing Braces Relief Techniques Finding relief from braces discomfort is key to a positive orthodontic experience. Let's explore actionable tips to make your journey smoother. Discover orthodontic-friendly foods, oral care routines, and lifestyle adjustments for effective braces relief. Incorporating soft foods, such as yogurt and mashed potatoes, can alleviate pressure on your teeth. Maintaining a diligent oral care routine also ensures a clean and healthy mouth during treatment. Harnessing the Power of Orthodontic Wax Uncover the benefits of orthodontic wax in mitigating discomfort. 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These appointments allow for necessary adjustments to your braces, ensuring they continue to work effectively and minimizing any potential discomfort. Oral Rinses and Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers Explore the role of oral rinses and over-the-counter pain relievers in alleviating aligner soreness. Rinsing with a saline solution can soothe gum irritation, while over-the-counter pain relievers can provide temporary relief. As always, consult with your orthodontist before using any medication. Communication with Your Orthodontist Establishing open communication with your orthodontic team is crucial. If you experience persistent discomfort, don't hesitate to reach out. Your orthodontist can provide additional guidance, recommend solutions, and address concerns. The Art of Comfortable Orthodontic Treatment Bringing it all together, let's uncover the art of achieving comfortable orthodontic treatment and a smile you love. The Ortho South Commitment Discover Ortho South's commitment to your well-being. Our team is dedicated to minimizing discomfort, utilizing cutting-edge techniques, and ensuring your orthodontic journey is as comfortable as possible. Your satisfaction and confidence in your smile are our top priorities. A Smooth Journey Awaits You Comfort goes hand in hand with a smooth journey. Our experienced orthodontists, Dr. Brandon Boggan and Dr. Zehra Syed, bring over 20 years of expertise to Alabama, ensuring that your orthodontic journey is effective and seamlessly comfortable. Trust in our knowledge and experience for a journey of ease and satisfaction. More Than 10,000 Happy Smilers Our success is measured by the smiles we've transformed over the years. Join a community of over 10,000 happy smilers who have experienced the Ortho South difference. Your comfort and satisfaction are at the heart of our practice, and our track record of delighted patients speaks volumes. Over 20 Years of Bringing Smiles to Alabama With a legacy spanning over two decades, Ortho South has been a trusted name in bringing smiles to Alabama. Our commitment to excellence and our focus on your comfort has made us a go-to destination for orthodontic care in the region. Patient Testimonials: Real Experiences, Real Results Explore inspiring patient testimonials sharing their journeys to comfortable orthodontic treatment. Realize that you're not alone in this process, and many individuals have successfully navigated orthodontic discomfort to achieve stunning smiles. See what our patients are saying: “We love Ortho South! Their staff is so friendly and informative. They took their time walking us through my daughter’s treatment plan, answering all of our questions. They made us feel like family the moment we walked in. My daughter was very nervous at first, but they made her feel very comfortable and she was excited about her braces by the end of her appointment. 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