Dentist Explains: Invisalign vs. Braces – Which is the Better Option for You?

With so many options for straightening crooked teeth, patients often get confused about what is best for them: Invisalign or traditional braces. It is indeed a difficult decision and includes comparing the pros and cons of both treatment modalities.

Patients can always ask their orthodontist about the best treatment option for them to make an informed decision. With the growing popularity of aligners, Invisalign has become a household name, but there are certain cases where traditional braces may be a better treatment approach for the patient. Thus, a thorough examination by the orthodontist is the most important.

In this blog, we discuss indications, advantages, and disadvantages of Invisalign and braces to help you make a more informed decision between these two dental treatments.

Invisalign

Invisalign is the pioneer gold standard aligner treatment. The clear plastic aligners are customized to the patient's jaw. The aligners are fabricated on a model of the patient's mouth, made using the digital intraoral scanner. The patient wears a series of corrective aligners over the course of a few months, which correct the alignment and position of their teeth.

Indications for Invisalign

Invisalign is advised in the following cases:

• Mild to moderate malocclusion
• Crowding of teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Teeth protruding too forward
• Teeth positioned too far back
• For individuals who prefer a nearly invisible treatment option due to cosmetic reasons

Advantages of Invisalign

Invisalign treatment has multiple benefits:

• Reduced number of visits to the orthodontist: You receive a set of aligners at the start of your treatment and are advised to change them over a fixed time duration; thus, no visits to the dental office for adjustments.
• Aesthetic: Invisalign retainers are virtually invisible and ideal for image-conscious individuals.
• Removable: Aligners can be removed while eating and following your normal diet.
• Easy oral hygiene maintenance: You can brush and floss effectively by removing the aligners.
• Comfort: Invisalign aligners are more comfortable than braces.

Disadvantages of Invisalign

• Patient compliance: Treatment success depends heavily on wearing the aligners regularly.
• Limitations in complex cases: Severe malocclusions and bite issues require braces.
• Cost: Invisalign is more expensive than traditional braces.

Price of Invisalign in Hyderabad

The price of Invisalign treatment starts at Rs. 1,50,000 at Dhriti Dental, Hyderabad.

Braces

Braces use wires and rubber bands to correct the alignment of teeth. Traditionally made of metal, braces are now also available in ceramic (tooth-colored) variants. Brackets are attached to the front surface of the teeth and use forces directed by a wire to move teeth into the desired positions. Lingual braces, attached to the back surface of the teeth, are also available.

Indications of Braces

• Mild to severe malocclusion
• Gaps between teeth
• Crowding of teeth
• Teeth too far forward
• Teeth too far backward
• Incorrect jaw alignment

Advantages of Braces

• Can treat severe malocclusion: Braces can manage complex dental and jaw alignment issues.
• Cost: Braces are generally more affordable than aligners.

Disadvantages of Braces

• Oral hygiene challenges: Brushing and flossing can be difficult with braces.
• Diet changes: Hard and sticky foods should be avoided.
• Regular dental visits: Frequent adjustments and repairs may be required.
• Unaesthetic: Metal braces may be visually noticeable, though ceramic options are available.

Price of Braces in Hyderabad

The cost of metal braces starts from Rs. 50,000, and ceramic braces start from Rs. 60,000 at Dhriti Dental, Hyderabad.

Final Takeaway: Invisalign vs. Braces

Several factors must be considered when choosing between Invisalign and braces. The orthodontist’s expertise and recommendation based on your specific case are the most important. After a personalized consultation, you can use the above pros and cons to make an informed decision.

Have crooked or malaligned teeth? Confused about which treatment is better for you—braces or Invisalign? Book your personalized smile consultation with orthodontists at Dhriti Dental now!

Dhriti Dental has a team of the best dental specialists in Hyderabad and is now open in Nallagandla and Manikonda.