Invisalign vs Traditional Braces Quincy, WA
When deciding between traditional metal braces or Invisalign to help correct dental issues, you may have some questions about which to choose. We can help you consider the various differences between regular braces and Invisalign before making a decision. While both methods straighten teeth, each orthodontic option does so in different ways.
Desert Sun Dental in Quincy can help patients choose between Invisalign or braces. Our team can help you make the right decision for your dental needs. Call us at (509) 785-6491 to schedule a consultation or learn more about our services.
Differences Between Braces and Invisalign
Traditional Braces
While they both achieve the same result, braces and Invisalign have differences in their course of treatment. Braces have been the traditional form of treatment for decades. Today's braces come in a variety of types, from tooth-colored ceramic, stainless steel, and even gold-colored.
Many people who wear braces can choose colors to personalize their braces. Oral hygiene remains particularly important when wearing braces. Patients must practice good dental hygiene with frequent brushing and flossing to remove food debris so that bacteria does not cause inflamed, painful gums or damage tooth enamel.
Invisalign
Developed in 2009, Invisalign has grown in popularity as an option for individuals who wish to correct dental issues such as gaps between teeth, crowded or crooked teeth, and an overbite or underbite. Invisalign Teen offers a nearly invisible way for teens to straighten their teeth without braces. Invisalign offers a series of clear, completely custom-made plastic aligners — called "trays" — that require no brackets or metal wires.
Patients receive a series of plastic trays throughout treatment that gradually shifts the teeth in the mouth to help them get the smile they desire. Oral hygiene is also important when wearing aligners. People must brush and floss before placing the aligners in their mouth and wash their aligners daily.
“While they both achieve the same result, they differ in their course of treatment.”
Treatment Time
Though overall treatment time with Invisalign depends on the severity of the condition, most patients complete treatment within 10 to 24 months. However, patients with more misaligned bites or crooked teeth will likely need to wear their aligners for a more extended period. Some may also require further, smaller refinements for a few months after completing treatment. On the other hand, adults who had braces as children may complete treatment in around 10 weeks.
Similarly, treatment time with traditional braces will depend on various factors. These include the severity of the patient's case, the amount of room inside their mouth, and how far their teeth must travel. It is also essential to consider how healthy the patient's teeth, gums, and supporting bone are. On average, however, braces will typically remain in place for one to three years. In both cases, patients may extend their treatment time by not following instructions closely.
“…patients may extend their treatment time by not following instructions closely.”
Effectiveness
Both Invisalign and traditional braces remain effective at straightening teeth but differ in their approach. Metal braces rely on brackets, wires, and elastics to shift teeth. Once removing braces, most patients must wear a retainer every night to maintain straight teeth. If patients do not wear the retainer, their teeth may shift back to previous positions.
Invisalign uses removable plastic aligners throughout the treatment. As the teeth shift, new aligners are worn to continue treatment. Invisalign requires patients to wear their aligners for 20-22 hours a day, whereas braces require 24 hours a day commitment. Patients do not have to wear a retainer after the Invisalign course of treatment.
“Both Invisalign and traditional braces remain effective at straightening teeth but differ in their approach.”
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Dietary Restrictions
Certain foods remain "off-limits" when wearing traditional braces. Avoid sticky, crunchy, chewy foods, including chewing gum. Carbonated drinks and beverages that contain sugar (such as fruit juices) should also be avoided, as they can damage tooth enamel.
Your teen will not need to adjust diet — or give up favorite beloved foods — when wearing Invisalign. The aligners should be removed before eating and drinking. You should avoid foods high in processed sugars and carbonated beverages as they can damage tooth enamel, with or without Invisalign.
“Your teen will not need to adjust diet — or give up favorite beloved foods — when wearing Invisalign.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How long is treatment time with traditional braces and Invisalign?
Q. What are the aesthetic differences between Invisalign and traditional braces?
Q. What are the differences between braces and Invisalign?
Q. How effective are braces? How effective is Invisalign?
Q. Are there dietary restrictions when wearing braces or Invisalign?
People Also Ask
Q. What are the pros and cons of Invisalign?
Q. How can someone find the right Invisalign Dentist?
Q. How do clear aligners save time straightening?
Q. Are braces or Invisalign aligners more effective?
Q. How should you choose the right treatment and cosmetic dentist?
Q. What are the differences between braces and Invisalign?
Q. What are the types of dental cosmetic treatments?
Q. What should people consider before seeking cosmetic dental care?
Aesthetics
For many patients, one of the major selling points of Invisalign is its virtually invisible nature. Unlike traditional braces, they do not draw any attention to the teeth — making them appealing to teens, especially for senior pictures. Invisalign trays are also removable, which can come in handy for contact sports.
While Invisalign is a more discreet option to traditional braces, traditional braces can shift the teeth and jaw more precisely. On the other hand, Invisalign allows for less demineralization and root resorption than traditional braces — making patients less prone to discoloring or tooth shortening. In any case, all orthodontic devices have the potential to close any wide gaps between the teeth, straighten crooked teeth, and align the teeth tips.
“…all orthodontic devices have the potential to close any wide gaps between the teeth, straighten crooked teeth, and align the teeth tips.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which is more comfortable: braces or Invisalign?
A. Initial discomfort comes when placing and adjusting braces. The brackets and wires can also irritate sensitive mouth tissues and may cause the occasional mouth sore. The good news is, this is temporary. Once patients become accustomed to their braces and adjustments, the pain goes away. For the most part, Invisalign trays remain comfortable and custom-made to fit each individual's mouth. Some patients may experience initial discomfort when switching to a new set of aligners as the teeth shift into new positions.
Q. Which takes longer: braces or Invisalign?
A. The treatment time varies for each individual, depending on the issues that need to be corrected. For most patients, braces must be worn for 18-24 months. Invisalign treatment remains typically shorter, and many patients can achieve their desired results within 6-18 months, depending on each patient and the issues that need to be addressed.
Q. Are there dietary restrictions with braces and Invisalign?
A. When wearing braces, patients will need to refrain from eating certain foods and snacks, such as nuts, sticky foods, and gum. With Invisalign, no dietary restrictions apply. With trays removed when eating and drinking, no worries remain regarding damaging them with hard or sticky foods. Whether you opt for braces or Invisalign, you must brush your teeth at least twice daily and avoid food and drink high in sugars.
Q. Which is more expensive: Invisalign or braces?
A. The cost of braces and Invisalign treatment varies, depending on the issue that needs correcting and the length of treatment time. Every insurance plan is different. Check with your insurance provider for coverage information before seeking treatment.
Q. How often will I have to see my Invisalign or braces provider?
A. Patients with traditional braces usually see their braces provider about every four weeks for adjustment appointments. Invisalign wearers typically visit their Invisalign provider about every four to six weeks to ensure their treatment is progressing as planned. Invisalign appointments are quicker traditional braces since there is no need for adjustment.
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Invisalign® Terminology
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A beautiful smile is not just a matter of aesthetics — it can also greatly impact your oral health. Whether you need Invisalign or traditional braces, Desert Sun Dental can help. Call us today at 509-785-6491 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- Invisalign®. How Invisalign Works. 2025
- Invisalign®. Take the Smile Assessment. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
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