If you’d like straighter teeth, you may find yourself comparing two of the best-known treatment options: Invisalign clear aligners and traditional braces.
Both are designed to move teeth into improved positions, but the experience of wearing them can be quite different. The right option depends on your teeth, bite, lifestyle, preferences and the complexity of the orthodontic movements required.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign treatment uses a series of custom-made, clear removable aligners to gradually move your teeth. Instead of attaching brackets and wires to your teeth, the aligners fit over them and are changed throughout treatment according to your prescribed treatment plan.
How are traditional braces different?
Traditional braces use brackets attached to the teeth and an orthodontic wire to apply controlled forces that move the teeth. Unlike Invisalign aligners, braces are fixed to your teeth during treatment.
Invisalign vs braces: which looks more discreet?
Invisalign aligners are clear and designed to be relatively discreet when worn. Traditional metal braces are generally more noticeable because brackets and wires remain attached to the teeth.
For adults working in professional or customer-facing environments — or anyone simply conscious of how orthodontic treatment will look — this can make Invisalign particularly appealing.
Eating with Invisalign vs Braces
Invisalign aligners are removable. You generally remove your aligners to eat and drink, meaning there aren’t the same food restrictions associated with fixed brackets and wires.
With braces, certain hard, sticky or chewy foods may need to be avoided because they can damage the orthodontic appliances or become caught around them. However, the removable nature of Invisalign also means you need the discipline to put your aligners back in.
How long do you wear Invisalign each day?
Invisalign advises that patients are typically required to wear their aligners for around 20–22 hours per day, although you should always follow the instructions given by your treating dentist.
Cleaning your teeth
Because Invisalign aligners can be removed, you can brush and floss your teeth without having to clean around brackets and wires. You also need to keep the aligners themselves clean and maintain good oral hygiene before putting them back in.
Braces require additional care when brushing and flossing because food and plaque can collect around the brackets and wires.
Is Invisalign more comfortable than braces?
Any treatment that moves teeth can involve some temporary discomfort or pressure. Invisalign aligners don’t have conventional brackets or wires, so there are different considerations when it comes to irritation of the cheeks and lips.
Patients may notice tightness or pressure, particularly when progressing to a new aligner. Individual experiences vary.
Is Invisalign faster than braces?
There isn’t a single treatment time that applies to everyone. Treatment duration depends on the position of your teeth, your bite, the complexity of the movements required and how closely treatment instructions are followed.
Can Invisalign treat everyone?
No orthodontic treatment is automatically the best choice for every patient. Invisalign can be used for a wide range of cases, but suitability needs to be professionally assessed.
So, should I choose Invisalign or braces?
Invisalign may be particularly attractive if you value a discreet appearance, removable aligners, fewer food restrictions associated with fixed appliances, the ability to brush and floss normally, and flexibility around important social or professional situations.
However, you also need to be comfortable with wearing your aligners consistently as prescribed. Traditional braces may be preferable or clinically indicated in other circumstances.
Considering Invisalign in Brisbane?
At Alderley Dental, we can assess your teeth and discuss the options available for improving your smile. We’re conveniently located in Alderley, around 6km north of Brisbane CBD, and welcome patients from across Brisbane’s inner north including Enoggera, Newmarket, Gaythorne and Stafford.
You can also begin your journey remotely with our Virtual Smile Consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Invisalign better than braces?Neither treatment is automatically better for every person. The most appropriate option depends on your individual teeth, bite, treatment goals and lifestyle.
- Can you eat normally with Invisalign?Invisalign aligners are removable and are generally taken out when eating and drinking. Follow the instructions provided by your treating dentist.
- How many hours per day do you need to wear Invisalign?Invisalign advises that aligners are typically worn for approximately 20–22 hours each day. Your dentist will provide instructions specific to your treatment.
- Are Invisalign aligners completely invisible?They’re clear and designed to be discreet, but they aren’t literally invisible.
- How can I find out if Invisalign is suitable for me?The best starting point is an assessment with a dental professional who can examine your teeth, bite and treatment goals.
Take the next step
If you’re comparing Invisalign and braces and aren’t sure which direction to take, book a complimentary initial Invisalign suitability consultation or submit your smile through our Virtual Smile Consultation.
All dental treatment carries risks and may not be suitable for everyone. Individual consultation with a dental practitioner is required to determine whether treatment is appropriate for you.
