Invisalign and braces can give you the straight teeth you want

Invisalign is a series of clear aligners that fit over your teeth that incrementally move your teeth into the desired straight position.

The aligners are replaced every two weeks and are worn about 22 hours during the day. They are removed to eat and drink but can be worn while drinking water.

Invisalign is most effective at treating minor to moderate tooth crowding or spacing issues.

Invisalign is a great way to achieve straight teeth and still be comfortable in social situations. They are comfortable and speech is most often not affected.

Traditional braces utilize either metal or ceramic tooth-colored brackets to move teeth into the desired position. In many cases, traditional braces tend to move teeth faster and are recommended for more complex movements.

Invisalign is a terrific method for tooth movement that is not complex. They are clear, computer-generated trays that are worn ideally 24 hours a day and are changed to a new tray every 2 weeks.

Most cases take 6 months to a year, and then some type of retention is needed after so the teeth do not shift back. My patients love this because the trays are relatively invisible.

You cannot eat or drink anything but water with them in but they are easy to remove.

Conventional braces are colored metal or resin brackets that are bonded to the face of the tooth and a wire is run through them. The are not removable, have more potential for complex tooth movement, and usually works a bit faster.

Most adults prefer the Invisalign since they are easily removed, easily cleaned, and undetectable when worn.

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Invisalign is computer generated. After very careful impressions and photos are taken, the patient is shown not only the final result but the progression of tooth movement.

After patient acquiescence, a series of clear, aesthetic trays are delivered for the patient to wear consecutively during which time her dentist periodically checks her.

Conventional braces are bonded to the patient’s teeth and pressure is used to move the teeth to the desired final result. The patient must be seen regularly for adjustments. It is not as aesthetic, but very effective.

Braces are frequently not the orthodontist's sole modality – palate expanding, for example, utilizing a metal framework is one of other techniques.

Invisalign is a different mode of braces. Wire braces are unsightly and uncomfortable. They also take longer to get a desired effect. You remember when you had braces as a teenager the years it took and the many dental visits to the family orthodontist.

Invisalign offers similar results with less invasive, clear "aligners." The aligners are used to make incremental movements in your teeth to the desired end result. Just like traditional braces, you will still have to wear a retainer after your Invisalign treatment. But the ability to take your aligners out when you are on a date is a luxury you cannot put a price on!