Ever since Invisalign entered the orthodontic market in the early 2000s, millions of patients have used the program to straighten their teeth and improve their smiles. Today, Invisalign is one of the biggest names in orthodontics— and it’s easy to see why.
Invisalign popularized the concept of clear aligner treatment, an orthodontic method that uses custom-made aligners trays to move teeth into healthier positions. Not only are Invisalign aligners completely transparent, they are also removable, which allows you to:
- Eat whatever you want, whenever you want
- Easily maintain your oral hygiene routine
- Remove aligners before playing sports or participating in physical activity
- Smile without showing others you are undergoing orthodontic treatment
At Beverly Hills Orthodontics, we love Invisalign. As a Blue Diamond Top 1% Invisalign Provider, we are recognized as one of the top Invisalign providers in the country. However, we know that Invisalign is not the best treatment option for every alignment issue, and there are cases in which you may benefit more from conventional braces.
If you’ve found yourself asking, “Why choose braces over Invisalign?” here’s what you need to know:
Why Choose Braces Over Invisalign? Understanding the Limits of Aligners
Although Invisalign is a popular method for correcting many alignment problems, there are limits to what Invisalign can accomplish.
When Invisalign was first introduced to the public in the early 2000s, treatment was confined to correcting minor alignment issues in adults, such as small gaps and slightly crooked teeth. Today, Invisalign is much more versatile. Available to both teens and adults of all ages, Invisalign can now correct a much broader range of alignment problems, including:
- Crowding
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crossbites
- Gap teeth
Despite these advancements, Invisalign alone is still unable to correct severe limit alignment problems and cases of significant tooth overlap. Although expert orthodontists like BHO’s own Dr. Monica Madan can incorporate Invisalign into treatment plans designed for severe cases, these plans do require additional procedures (e.g. surgery, headgear, etc.).
Braces, on the other hand, may be able to correct severe issues without extra steps. For patients who want the simplicity of a single treatment, braces could be a better route than Invisalign.
The Role of Patient Responsibility
Some patients choose braces over Invisalign to avoid the potential complications associated with frequent aligner removal.
Although many Invisalign patients love that they can remove their aligners at any time, this ability does come with a significant amount of personal responsibility. While aligner removability enables you to eat whatever you want and brush and floss like normal, some patients are tempted to remove their aligners more than they should. This can compromise treatment in a few ways.
If you neglect to wear your aligners for more than 22 hours a day or remove your aligners frequently, you run the risk of:
- Impeding treatment progress
- Losing your aligners
- Physically damaging your aligners if they are left out in an open area
Patients with braces never face these issues. If you are looking for a more carefree approach to orthodontic care, braces may be the best option for you.
Braces: Exploring Your Options
When most people think about braces, they likely think of the bulky apparatuses seen in 80s teen comedies. However, the idea that braces are uncomfortable and cumbersome is outdated.
In recent years, braces have improved in a variety of ways. For example, wires and brackets have become smaller, more comfortable, and more effective at moving teeth. Digital scanning technology has also replaced the invasive molding process that orthodontists previously used to create oral impressions. Thanks to these improvements, today’s braces are:
- Better looking
- More effective
- Able to complete treatment faster
- More comfortable
Beyond these technological improvements, patients are now able to choose from a few different types of braces. In addition to conventional metal braces, qualifying patients may opt for:
- Ceramic braces, which use tooth-colored brackets for a more discreet look
- Lingual braces, which are positioned behind teeth for complete treatment invisibility
If you are interested in any of these treatment options, contact Beverly Hills Orthodontics today to schedule an in-person or virtual consultation.
Finding the Right Treatment Approach
Although there are often excellent reasons to choose Invisalign over braces [LINK TO: “Why Choose Invisalign Over Braces?” when live], it’s not right for everyone. Between potential treatment limitations and the responsibility Invisalign places on its patients, it’s no wonder that some patients still choose braces over Invisalign.
If you’re unsure about which treatment option is right for you, the team at Beverly Hills Orthodontics is here to help. As one of the top Invisalign providers in the country, we know a thing or two about clear aligners and can help you decide which orthodontic approach is best for your situation. With the guidance of our expert team, you can set yourself up for success from the start and get results you’ll love.