6 Advantages Of Invisalign^® vs. Metal Braces

Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for teens. In fact, more adults today are seeking ways to enhance the appearance of their smiles through discreet and convenient teeth straightening options. For many, the thought of wearing traditional metal braces – with their visible wires and brackets – can feel discouraging, especially when maintaining a polished, professional image is a priority. Fortunately, Invisalign^® clear aligners can offer a modern alternative that allows you to achieve beautifully straight teeth without compromising your lifestyle or confidence.

Our skilled Newport Beach dentist, Lance Alder, DDS, is a preferred provider for Invisalign^® – meaning he has extensive experience helping patients achieve straighter smiles with this state-of-the-art treatment. If you’ve been wondering whether Invisalign^® is right for you, consider these six compelling advantages that set it apart from conventional metal braces.

1. Virtually Invisible Appearance

   One of the most well-known benefits of Invisalign^® is right in the name: it’s virtually invisible! Unlike traditional metal braces, which are highly noticeable, Invisalign^® uses clear, medical-grade plastic aligners that fit snugly over your teeth, making them nearly imperceptible to others.

   This discreet quality is especially ideal for adults and teens who want to straighten their smiles without drawing attention to their orthodontic treatment during work, school, or social engagements. Whether you’re leading a meeting, attending a special event, or simply going about your daily routine, you can feel confident knowing that your aligners won’t be the focal point of your appearance.

2. Enhanced Comfort

   Metal braces can often cause irritation as brackets and wires rub against the inside of the cheeks and lips. In contrast, Invisalign^® aligners are made from smooth, flexible plastic that is specifically designed for comfort. There are no sharp edges or protruding pieces to cause discomfort, and because the aligners are custom-fabricated to fit your unique dental anatomy, they typically feel snug and secure without the bulkiness associated with traditional braces.

   If you ever need a short break from wearing them (for example, during a special occasion or while enjoying a hot beverage), they can easily be removed and placed back in without disrupting your treatment plan.

3. Simple to Maintain Oral Hygiene

   Practicing good oral hygiene can be much more challenging with traditional braces. Brackets and wires create obstacles when brushing and flossing, often requiring additional tools such as floss threaders or interdental brushes to reach trapped food and plaque. This can make cleaning your teeth more time-consuming and increase your risk of cavities or gum issues during treatment.

   With Invisalign^®, however, keeping your teeth and gums healthy is generally simple and convenient. The aligners are removable, so you can brush and floss your teeth as you normally would – no complicated tools required. Additionally, cleaning the aligners themselves is usually quick and easy: a gentle rinse or the use of recommended cleaning products should keep them fresh and clear.

4. Freedom to Eat What You Enjoy

   Anyone who has worn metal braces understands the frustration of having to avoid certain foods. Popcorn, nuts, chewy candies, and even some fruits can cause damage to brackets and wires or become frustratingly lodged in the hardware.

   That said, Invisalign^® was designed with flexibility in mind. Because you remove your aligners whenever you eat or drink (with the exception of water), there are no dietary restrictions. You can continue to enjoy your favorite foods without worry. After eating, simply brush your teeth, rinse your aligners if needed, and place them back in your mouth to continue your treatment uninterrupted.

5. Comparable Cost with Flexible Payment Options

   In the past, more advanced cosmetic dentistry solutions usually came with a significantly higher price tag, making them less accessible to many patients. Today, Invisalign^® is generally comparable in cost to traditional metal braces. In addition, many dental insurance plans offer coverage for Invisalign^® treatment, making this option more attainable than ever.

6. In Many Cases, Quicker Results

   Invisalign^® is not only designed to be convenient and comfortable – it can deliver results in less time than traditional braces. While metal braces typically require 18 months to three years to complete treatment, many Invisalign^® patients achieve their desired results much more quickly, depending on the complexity of their case and their commitment to wearing the aligners as directed. In some cases, patients can see improvements after an astonishing six months.

   The efficiency of Invisalign^® comes from its custom-tailored treatment planning and the consistent, gentle pressure applied through each progressive set of aligners. Patients who diligently follow their dentist’s guidance can often enjoy a straighter smile sooner than they imagined.

Ready to Straighten Your Smile?

If you’ve been putting off orthodontic treatment because you don’t want the look or inconvenience of metal braces, Invisalign^® may be the perfect solution. Straightening your teeth can improve not just your appearance but your overall oral health and confidence. Contact Newport Beach Dental today to schedule an Invisalign^® consultation and take the first step toward the smile you’ve always wanted!

Editor’s note: This blog was originally posted on January 1st, 2020.