Straight teeth come with many perks. For starters, if you have straight teeth, people are 38% more likely to think you’re smart.
However, many people have doubts about metal braces. Research shows that more than 90% American teens who never had braces believe that metal braces would hurt their chances of fitting in. Additionally, 41% of them find it embarrassing to wear them.
This leads to the age old Invisalign vs braces debate. Luckily, the winning side becomes clear when you lay out the facts.
Here’s a look at how the Invisalign treatment and metal braces stack up against one another. Keep reading to find out why the choice between Invisalign vs braces is an easy one to make.
Time Spent Visiting the Dentist
With metal braces, you run the risk of having to make emergency visits if something breaks. But you never have to worry about that problem with Invisalign. This makes clear aligners the ideal option for people who need to travel.
With Invisalign, your trips to the dentist are also much briefer. You can be on your merry way with new aligners in 15-20 minutes. If you choose metal braces, it may take longer since the dentist will remove wires and ties.
Keeping Everything Clean
For the most part, keeping your metal braces clean involves your typical brushing, flossing, and rinsing. However, you might also need to use an interdental toothbrush to prevent damage. Your dentist or orthodontist will also have to do some cleaning of their own during your visits.
It’s still important to keep your teeth nice and clean when you have Invisalign. But cleaning your aligners is easy, as you can buy cleaning systems that rinse them out. Plus, you don’t have to worry about anything cutting up your gums and leaving sores prone to infections.
Eating Your Favorite Foods
Adults typically wear metal braces for approximately 18 to 24 months, making food-eating freedom a huge deciding factor in the Invisalign vs braces debate.
If you opt for metal braces, you’ll quickly find out that many of your favorite foods become off-limits. For example, hard and crunchy foods can cause damage to your metal braces, so it’s best to avoid them. Sticky foods can lead to problems as well.
The great thing about Invisalign is that you can remove your aligners before eating. This means you don’t have to worry about missing out on your favorite meals and snacks as long as you brush and floss.
The Final Verdict on Invisalign vs Braces
When you stack them up against each other, Invisalign easily comes out on top. The benefits of clear aligners over metal braces are difficult to ignore.
First, both younger and older wearers don’t have to worry about sticking out from the crowd. It’s impossible for most people to notice that you have them on.
You also save time by going to the dentist less often. Plus, the visits are much shorter too.
Finally, cleaning is much easier with Invisalign, and you can continue enjoying the same foods you eat now.
If you live near the San Diego area, book an appointment with us. We can’t wait to meet you and help you get the smile you always dreamed of!