Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces River Vale, NJ
When it comes to straightening your teeth, there are more options on the market now than ever. Two of the most popular options are Invisalign® and traditional braces. While neither is definitively better than the other, both have their own set of pros and cons.
Invisalign and traditional braces are available at River Vale Orthodontics in River Vale and the surrounding area. We can help provide you with the best treatment for your unique case. Call us today at (201) 613-1100 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Differences Between Invisalign and Traditional Braces
When considering Invisalign and traditional braces, patients should first realize that no one treatment is better than the other. The right treatment will vary on a case-by-case basis. The first step to determining what is best for a patient is an accurate diagnosis. An orthodontist will also consider the patient’s treatment process goals, lifestyle needs, and more.
The main distinguishing factor between Invisalign and traditional braces is visibility. Invisalign is a more discreet option, while traditional braces will remain evident in the patient’s mouth. Additionally, Invisalign trays are removable, while traditional braces will remain attached to the patient’s teeth. Consequently, patients with traditional braces may need to make some dietary changes during their treatment. In any case, both Invisalign and traditional braces will require patients to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine and wear retainers after completion.
“When considering Invisalign and traditional braces, patients should first realize that no one treatment is better than the other.”
Treatment Time
Though overall treatment time with Invisalign depends on the severity of the condition, most patients complete treatment within 10 to 24 months. However, patients with more misaligned bites or crooked teeth will likely need to wear their aligners for a more extended period. Some may also require further, smaller refinements for a few months after completing treatment. On the other hand, adults who had braces as children may complete treatment in around 10 weeks.
Similarly, treatment time with traditional braces will depend on various factors. These include the severity of the patient’s case, the amount of room inside their mouth, and how far their teeth must travel. It is also essential to consider how healthy the patient’s teeth, gums, and supporting bones are. On average, however, braces will typically remain in place for one to three years. In both cases, patients may extend their treatment time by not following instructions closely.
“On average, however, braces will typically remain in place for one to three years. In both cases, patients may extend their treatment time by not following instructions closely.”
Treatment Efficacy
According to at least one meta-analysis, patients prefer clear aligners like Invisalign over metal braces for their discreet nature, comfort, and ease of maintaining oral hygiene. Multiple studies in the meta-analysis also found that patients tended to have a shorter treatment time with Invisalign than with traditional braces.
However, it is crucial to note that Invisalign lacks the precision of traditional braces, making them better suited for patients with less severe orthodontic issues. While clear aligners are an effective means of addressing malocclusion, traditional braces can more significantly shift the teeth and jaw. At River Vale Orthodontics, we take all the necessary steps to provide our patients with the most effective, personalized treatment possible.
“While clear aligners are an overall effective means of addressing malocclusion, traditional braces can more significantly shift the teeth and jaw.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces in River Vale, NJ
Dietary Changes
As stated by Healthline, patients should keep their Invisalign trays in their mouth for 20 to 22 hours per day. These trays should only be removed for eating, drinking anything that is not clear water, or performing their oral hygiene routines. Since Invisalign trays do not involve wires or brackets, the treatment does not necessitate any dietary changes. However, patients should still brush their teeth before putting their aligners back on to prevent staining.
On the other hand, patients will need to adjust their diets while wearing braces. This is because the brackets are sensitive to damage, and patients must take care not to cause them to separate from the tooth. Thus, it is necessary to avoid any foods that are too hard, sticky, or chewy, such as popcorn, chewing gum, hard crackers, and more. It is also essential to limit sugary foods and drinks, as the combination of sugar and saliva may lead to an excess of plaque that is hard to remove.
“Since Invisalign trays do not involve any wires or brackets, the treatment itself does not necessitate any dietary changes.”
Aesthetic Benefits
For many patients, one of the major selling points of Invisalign is its virtually invisible nature. Unlike traditional braces, they do not draw any attention to the teeth — making them appealing to teens, especially for senior pictures. Invisalign trays are also removable, which can come in handy for contact sports.
While Invisalign is a more discreet option to traditional braces, traditional braces can shift the teeth and jaw more precisely. On the other hand, Invisalign allows for less demineralization and root resorption than traditional braces — making patients less prone to discoloring or shortening. In any case, all orthodontic devices have the potential to close any wide gaps between the teeth, straighten crooked teeth, and align the tips of the teeth.
““…all orthodontic devices have the potential to close any wide gaps between the teeth, straighten crooked teeth, and align the teeth tips.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are the differences between Invisalign and traditional braces?
Q. How long is treatment time with traditional braces and Invisalign?
Q. How effective are Invisalign and traditional braces?
Q. What can I eat when I have braces?
Q. What are the aesthetic differences between Invisalign and traditional braces?
People Also Ask
Q. What is another orthodontic option other than braces?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is Invisalign made of?
A. Invisalign trays are composed of a patented thermoplastic material called SmartTrack®. They are BPA-, BPS-, latex-, and gluten-free. They have also been FDA-approved for safe use.
Q. How often will my Invisalign trays need to be changed?
A. It depends on your specific case. However, most patients require a change every one or two weeks. River Vale Orthodontics can help you get a better idea of what to expect during a one-on-one consultation.
Q. What are traditional braces composed of?
A. Traditional braces are composed of brackets, bands, archwires, spacers, ties, buccal tubes, and ligatures. The brackets hold the archwires that move the teeth, while the bands wrap around the tooth to anchor the brackets. River Vale Orthodontics will also fit spacers between your teeth to make room for the bands.
Q. How often will I need to get my braces tightened?
A. The answer varies on a case-by-case basis. However, most patients need to get their braces tightened every six weeks. Speaking to River Vale Orthodontics may give you a better idea of what to expect.
Q. Do I still need to visit my dentist while wearing braces?
A. Yes. It is important to be especially diligent about your oral hygiene while completing orthodontic treatment, as such routines become harder to maintain with traditional braces.
Quality Orthodontic Services Can Transform Smiles
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need.
Scan here to view this page, Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces, on mobile
Definition of Orthodontic Terminology
Call Us Today
A beautiful smile is not just a matter of aesthetics — it can also greatly impact your oral health. Whether you need Invisalign or traditional braces, River Vale Orthodontics can help. Call us today at 201-613-1100 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Terms. 2021
About our business and website security
- River Vale Orthodontics was established in 2023.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Bergen County
- We serve patients from the following cities: River Vale, Westwood, Norwood, Old Tappan, Emerson, Woodcliff Lake, Montvale, Park Ridge, Washington Township, and Harrington Park
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to River Vale Orthodontics on mobile
Related Posts
Achieve Your Dream Smile With Expert Teeth Straightening Services
Expert teeth straightening services can help you achieve your dream smile by bringing your teeth back into alignment. However, the advantages of doing so are far from just cosmetic. You also have various options when it comes to this approach, and each choice has its own advantages and disadvantages. So, you should know how expert…
How To Select The Right Orthodontist Near Me
Are you searching for an "orthodontist near me"? Read on to learn more. Having crooked or unevenly spaced teeth is not just an aesthetic issue. For many, the most noticeable change is in their level of self-image. Your teeth alignment makes it easy for plaque to build up, which in turn increases your risk of…
Braces Specialist: Your Path To Straighter Teeth
Looking for a braces specialist? Read on to learn more. You might be hesitant to see a braces specialist if you already see a general dentist regularly. In some cases, patients have an individual situation that requires consulting a specialist. Generally, these professionals have more experience in orthodontics and a consultation with them might make…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call River Vale Orthodontics on mobile