What are the differences between metal braces and invisible aligners? Straightening your teeth not only gives you an attractive and beautiful smile but also benefits your overall oral health. If you are looking for an orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth, you probably find yourself stuck in choosing between the metal braces and clear aligners. Considering that, here is a list of things that you should know to choose the treatment that is best for you.

​Metal Braces vs. Invisalign: How They Are Different

While both the braces straighten your teeth and improve your oral health, you would think what makes them different. Well, it is based on the process of how they align your teeth. Remember that determining the most appropriate braces for you solely depends on your needs and preferences.

Metal Braces

Traditional braces are attached to the enamel of each of your tooth. The metal wires are crisscrossed through brackets, which help shape and mold your teeth. The wires used are sometimes of the same color as your teeth; it makes your braces less noticeable. However, you can also choose from different colors if you want to have a bit of fun with your braces.

Invisalign

If you don’t want your braces to be visible, then you must go for Invisalign. Made from BPA-free plastic, the aligner trays of Invisalign subtly move your teeth. Not to mention, the material used in Invisalign makes these braces smooth and comfortable. In place of mold, these braces contain a 3D image of your dental structure that configures aligner trays, making them the right fit.

Benefits of Metal Braces

Known as traditional braces, metal braces were once the very popular orthodontic treatment. Now that you have to choose the right braces for you, it is important for you to consider the benefits that make metal braces a good option.

Metal braces are irremovable, and they stay in their place. So, if you don’t want to change your trays frequently or are worried about losing your trays, then metal braces is a suitable option for you.

Since these braces are irremovable, they can give you the desired results faster than Invisalign. If you opt for metal braces, you will need to wear them for 24/7 and usually for about two years. When it comes to cleaning, metal braces require regular flossing and brushing.

For follow up visits, you will typically need to have a monthly checkup, where your skilled orthodontist will see the improvement and may adjust metal wires. Metal braces are generally recommended for patients with complex dental issues.

​Benefits of Invisalign

One of the major pros of clear aligners is that they are removable. The trays used can be removed, allowing you to eat without getting food stuck. Furthermore, Invisalign contains clear trays, making your braces virtually invisible to notice.

Clear aligners are more comfortable than traditional braces since there are no brackets that may cause sores in your mouth. You will need to wear Invisalign for 24 hours a day and 6 to 18 months, depending on your needs.

Besides that, you will need to clean the aligners with a specified cleaning solution or by rinsing and brushing the trays in lukewarm water. With follow up visits, plan to see your orthodontist every 4 to 6 weeks.

​The Main Takeaway

As mentioned before, choosing between metal braces or clear aligners completely depends on your needs and preferences.

Getting braces can be a challenge. When you decide to go for it, you want to get the most out of your decision. When the time comes to choose a top NYC orthodontist for your braces, call NYC Dental Orthodontics.

Call Today: (646) 760-8028