Braces vs. Invisalign

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Braces vs. Invisalign
Posted on 03/23/2018
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Here at Kattner Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer a variety of great orthodontic treatments that are capable of giving you the straighter and healthier smile that you’re looking for. No matter your orthodontic condition or your desires, we believe that you’ll find just the right type of braces or other orthodontics that’ll suit your needs perfectly. As we offer many different options, today we want to compare the two treatments that are perhaps our most popular – traditional metal braces and Invisalign.

 

Braces

Metal braces are a traditional and time-tested form of orthodontic treatment. To give a patient a straighter smile, braces are metal brackets that are cemented to the fronts of the teeth along with a wire that runs through them to gently guide the teeth into better positions.

 

Pros

  • Braces are incredibly effective and able to treat some of the more complex orthodontic problems.
  • You won’t have to worry about remembering to wear them as they’re cemented to your teeth.
  • The treatment times are often more predictable than with other types of orthodontic treatment.
  • There are several different types of braces with a few of them offering a more discreet treatment (we do have a beautiful clear brace that many patients select). 

Cons

  • Metal braces don’t offer the most aesthetically pleasing form of treatment.
  • You’ll have to avoid certain foods because some foods can potentially break the wires and brackets.
  • It can be difficult to clean around the brackets and wires.

 

Invisalign

Invisalign is our most popular alternative to braces. Instead of using brackets and wires to shift a patient’s teeth, Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners to do the job.

 

Pros

  • Invisalign offers a nearly invisible orthodontic treatment due to its clear aligners.
  • Because the aligners are removable, you won’t have to stop eating your favorite foods for fear of breaking your appliances.
  • You won’t have to struggle to clean around wires and brackets when you brush or floss.
  • Most patients tell us that aligners offer more comfort than a traditional braces treatment.
  • The aligners can act like a night guard to protect against any nighttime teeth grinding.

 

Cons

  • Not every patient is going to be a suitable candidate for Invisalign as we believe some treatment plans are too complex.
  • You have to make a committed effort toward wearing your aligners (at least 22 hours per day) or else the treatment won’t work properly.
  • Since they’re not cemented inside your mouth, you have to be careful not to misplace or lose the aligners.

In most cases, treatment with braces and treatment with Invisalign are similar in total cost.

 

Visit Your Provider of Gurnee, IL Braces and Invisalign!

Your Waukegan/Gurnee, IL orthodontist can help you determine which treatment is best for you. To schedule an appointment, feel free to give us a call at (847) 244-7900 or fill out our appointment request form. We’re looking forward to seeing you and providing you with the treatment that’s just right for you!