Pros and Cons of Invisalign 

Millions of Americans want to improve their smile, and there are countless ways to do so. Two of the most popular options are traditional orthodontics like braces and Invisalign. While both of them will leave you with a grin that you can’t wait to show off, there are key differences between the two that might impact which is best for you. What are the pros and cons of Invisalign?

Pro: Invisalign Is Comfortable

Traditional braces with wires and brackets can be very uncomfortable. Even properly-fitted braces require an adjustment period, and as they are tightened and your teeth shift it can lead to discomfort. In contrast, Invisalign is very comfortable. You will not experience small nicks or cuts in your mouth as you eat, and every tray is completely smooth to avoid unnecessary irritation. Think of the Invisalign aligners as custom-fitted mouthguards that provide a snug fit without discomfort.

Con: Invisalign Can Be a Bigger Investment

Traditional braces are typically covered by insurance, and even if you pay out of pocket they often cost less. Invisalign is usually a bigger investment in your smile, but there are many different financing options available to spread out the cost and make your orthodontic treatment more affordable. You can work with your Las Vegas orthodontist to find the best financial fit for you and your current budget and insurance.

Pro: Invisalign Lets You Keep Your Smile

Some people are hesitant to get orthodontics because of potential changes to their smile. Even though there is nothing embarrassing about investing in your oral health, traditional braces can still make you self-conscious about smiling. Invisalign aligners are designed to be virtually invisible when they are in. You can take pictures and live your life the same as you did before without any noticeable changes to your appearance.

Con: You Might Need Attachments

While most people simply use the aligners in a steady progression to move their teeth, some who use Invisalign will need to have attachments placed on the surface of the tooth. These are similar to brackets from traditional braces but they are designed to be less noticeable. Attachments perfectly click into aligner trays to keep them in place and ensure that your teeth shift properly. These are often needed to ensure a picture-perfect smile at the end.

Pro: Aligners Can Be Removed

One of the biggest reasons why people dislike traditional braces is the changes they require to diet and how you eat. Certain foods like popcorn and corn on the cob are virtually off-limits, which can be hard when you have to undergo a course of treatment that lasts multiple years. Invisalign trays can be removed when you eat for your comfort, which also means that there are far fewer restrictions on what you can eat.

Additionally, being able to remove your trays entirely makes it simpler to maintain great oral hygiene habits. You do not need to worry about purchasing a water flosser or special floss to keep your teeth in great condition. Instead, you’ll just pop your aligners out, clean them, and proceed with cleaning your teeth as you did before. As a result, most Invisalign patients are able to maintain better oral hygiene and prevent cavities from forming during treatment.

Con: You Must Wear Them 22+ Hours a Day 

Braces are on your teeth 24/7. While you can remove Invisalign aligners from your mouth when you drink or eat, you must still wear them 22 hours a day to ensure proper, steady movement. If you are planning on removing them often, like when going out on a date or for a party with friends, you will not be able to. Some people who are frequent snackers or who like drinking colored liquids like soda throughout the day have a challenging adjustment period to aligners.

Pro: Fewer and Shorter Appointments

When you have traditional braces, appointments can be complex as the orthodontist determines what to adjust, replaces brackets, and changes the wires and rubber bands. Invisalign appointments are much faster and do not need to happen as often. When you get Invisalign in Las Vegas, you will only need to visit the orthodontist every 10-12 weeks compared with the average 6-8 week turnaround time for braces.