No matter your age, most people find the idea of metal braces unappealing. Teens especially tend to worry about the social costs of “metal mouth.” Most adults considering braces think about how braces will look to their employers, co-workers, clients, and romantic partners. Braces can also be painful and uncomfortable.

Fortunately, there’s a better option: Invisalign. Invisalign works faster than regular metal braces, is nearly invisible to the eye and you can eat and drink whatever you want. The Invisalign system uses a system of comfortable plastic aligners that are custom molded for your teeth. These plastic trays fit over your teeth and are clear, so no one knows you’re wearing them. Every two weeks or so, you change to the next set of trays in a series designed exactly for you by your dentist. Each tray steadily moves your teeth into an ideal position. There are no wires, no tightening, and no pain.

A 2008 study in Aesthetic Dentistry Today found that the average treatment time for traditional braces was 35.9 months and as long as 96 months. Invisalign was found to produce its results within 12-18 months. Not only was it faster, but Invisalign patients got to enjoy candy, pizza, bagels, breads and many other foods that are banned with traditional metal braces. Hot and cold drinks can also cause problems with metal and have to be avoided. Because you can take Invisalign out at any time, nothing is off the list.

Here’s a look at the benefits of Invisalign over traditional braces.

Invisalign                                                    

Can be taken out any time

Works in 12-18 months

Invisible to others

Eat anything

Average cost $5000

No gum side effects

Very comfortable to wear

Must wear 20-22 hours a day

Braces

Are hard wired to your teeth and required painful tightening

Typical treatment is 36+ months

Obvious metal mouth

Must eat from list of approved food/drinks

Average cost $5000

Can irritate gums and teeth roots

Can be painful

Worn 24 hours a day

Want to find out more about Invisalign? Contact us today!