Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces: Which Option Is Best for You?

At Omnia Dental, we believe everyone deserves a healthy, beautifully aligned smile. Traditional braces have been around for decades, but today, there’s also Invisalign, an innovative, virtually invisible clear aligner system that’s straightened millions of smiles worldwide. Here’s a closer look at your options to help make the right decision for your unique needs and your lifestyle.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a next-generation orthodontic solution that uses clear, virtually invisible aligners to apply consistent pressure on your teeth, gently and gradually moving them into alignment. The world’s leading clear aligner system features custom aligners fabricated from a comfortable, BPA-free thermoplastic material known as SmartTrack that guides your teeth into alignment with exceptional precision. 

Your Invisalign journey begins with capturing digital impressions of your teeth using our cutting-edge intraoral scanner to create virtual models of your smile without the need for messy or gooey traditional impressions. Dr. Shtilman will use these 3D models and cutting-edge software to create a custom treatment plan, outlining how your teeth will move toward their ideal position over time and your expected duration of treatment. 

You’ll need to wear your Invisalign aligners for 20-22 hours a day, only taking them out to eat, drink (anything other than water), and brush and floss your teeth. As you swap one set of aligners for the next in the series, you’ll be amazed to see your teeth gradually move into alignment. 

The following are some of the benefits of Invisalign: 

• Nearly Invisible: Invisalign’s clear, custom-made aligners are crafted from a nearly invisible material, making them virtually unnoticeable when you smile.
• Removable: You can easily remove your aligner trays for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, allowing for normal oral hygiene and no food restrictions.
• Comfortable: Invisalign’s aligners are custom-crafted from a smooth material that’s more comfortable than the wires and brackets of traditional braces.
• Predictable Results: Advanced 3D imaging allows for precise treatment planning, and you’ll even get to visualize your new, improved smile before you even begin.
• Fewer Office Visits: With no wires or brackets to adjust, Invisalign typically requires fewer visits and shorter appointments than traditional braces.

What Are Traditional Braces?

Traditional metal braces offer a reliable and time-tested solution for addressing severe and complex orthodontic concerns. They use stainless steel brackets that attach to your teeth, ultra-thin archwires, and small rubber bands known as O-rings that come in different colors for a personalized look. Your braces will apply continuous pressure to your teeth, moving them into the desired position over time. The archwires will need to be tightened as your treatment progresses to keep your smile on track. 

Traditional braces are highly effective at correcting the most complex orthodontic concerns with exceptional precision. Their greatest drawbacks are that they interfere with the appearance of your smile, can be challenging to clean, and come with many food restrictions. 

The following are some of the benefits of traditional metal braces: 

• Reliable: Braces can correct a wide range of complex orthodontic concerns, including severe crowding, gaps, crooked teeth, and significant bite problems.
• Always Working: Because they’re fixed to your teeth, your braces work consistently to deliver reliable and predictable outcomes, and you won’t have to worry about wearing them.
• Cost-Effective: Metal braces are often more affordable than other orthodontic options and are usually covered by dental insurance plans.
• Consistent Oversight: Regular orthodontist visits for adjustments and wire tightening ensure that your treatment stays on track.

Which Orthodontic Option Is Best for You?

Choosing between Invisalign and braces depends on your orthodontic needs, lifestyle, and goals for your smile. Invisalign may be the perfect solution if you’re looking for a discreet, comfortable, and flexible option to align your teeth. However, some complex cases may require metal braces for optimal outcomes. At Omnia Dental, we offer personalized orthodontic consultations to help you determine the ideal solution for achieving the smile of your dreams. 

Orthodontic Treatment Near Me in Buffalo Grove, IL

If you are ready to explore your orthodontic options, contact Omnia Dental to schedule a consultation. Dr. Shtilman and her team will evaluate your unique needs, outline your options, and get you on track to the straight smile you’ve always wanted. We invite you to call us at 847-495-2292 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!