Invisalign is a treatment option uses transparent, retainer-like aligners to shift teeth into place. They are usually worn 22 hours a day or more and are changed every two weeks to a new pair that will continue to shift your teeth into place. The treatment typically takes nine months to a year.
Cosmetic braces use ceramic brackets, which can either be transparent or made to match the colour of your teeth, so they are less noticeable when in place.
They work in a very similar way to metal braces, in that they are bonded to your teeth and then connected by an arch wire that puts pressure on the teeth and are adjusted every four weeks until teeth are properly aligned. However, it’s easy to see why they get confused.
If you type cosmetic braces (or clear braces as they’re sometime known) into a search engine, chances are Invisalign will spring up somewhere in the results.
Here are five differences between the two product types, which will help you decide which ones are right to help you achieve your perfect smile.
Invisalign is more transparent
One of the biggest plus points about Invisalign is that they are virtually transparent. While cosmetic braces blend into the patient’s teeth, the brackets are more noticeable than Invisalign’s transparent retainer. In fact, many people won’t even notice when someone is wearing Invisalign until they’re told.
Invisalign is removable
Because ceramic braces are fixed in place, they can make it difficult to eat and brush and floss your teeth. Invisalign can be easily removed and put back in place at any time.
Invisalign is stronger
Invisalign is made of thin, clear plastic, which is robust and difficult to break. Because of the material used to make them, ceramic cosmetic braces can be brittle and more prone to chipping or breaking… although it should be said that it would still take a large amount of force to break them.
Invisalign is more comfortable
Cosmetic braces can irritate soft tissue of your lips and cheeks. You should get used to this over time, but when you first wear them, your mouth may get quite sore. Invisalign fits closer to the teeth, so it much more comfortable to wear.
Invisalign won’t stain your teeth
While the ceramic brackets used in your cosmetic braces won’t stain, if you smoke or drink a lot of coffee, the clear elastic wires holding them together will. With Invisalign, provided you take them out and clean your teeth regularly, they won’t stain when you wear them.
Conclusion
While both Invisalign and cosmetic braces are both good choices if you want to correct your teeth without drawing too much attention to them, there are differences between the two which may make one options more suitable than the other.
A consultation with one of our friendly, professional dentists will help you to understand the pros and cons of both treatments, so you can decide which one will help you achieve your perfect smile. Book your appointment today
Get the most competitive Invisalign pricing with manageable monthly payments at your desired location. We are very happy to be able to provide comprehensive NHS and private dental treatment via our network of more than 30 dental clinics throughout England. It’s safe to say that your visit to our clinics in the UK’s capital, Liverpool, Manchester, Cheshire, Portsmouth, Berkshire, and Surrey will be convenient and stress-free.
Perfect Smile provides a full range of dental services, all of which is reinforced by our commitment to providing the best possible level of patient care and treatment. Our dentists are here for you every step of the way, from the first consultation to the final outcome, to help you attain a brighter, happier smile.