Choosing between Invisalign and traditional braces is one of the most common decisions our patients face at Morristown Orthodontics. Both options can effectively straighten your teeth and improve your smile, but they work in different ways and offer unique benefits. Let’s help you understand which might be the better fit for your specific needs.
How They Work
Traditional Braces consist of metal or ceramic brackets attached to your teeth, connected by wires and small rubber bands. Your orthodontist adjusts these components periodically to gradually move your teeth into proper alignment.
Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable plastic aligners custom-made for your teeth. Each set of aligners makes slight adjustments to tooth position as you progress through the series, typically changing to a new set every 1-2 weeks.
Appearance
The most noticeable difference between these options is how they look. Traditional braces, even tooth-colored ceramic ones, remain visible on your teeth. Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, making them popular with adults and teens concerned about their appearance during treatment.
Many of our patients at Morristown Orthodontics choose Invisalign because they can straighten their teeth without drawing attention to their treatment. This can be particularly beneficial for professionals, people who appear in photos or videos frequently, or anyone feeling self-conscious about wearing braces.
Comfort and Convenience
Traditional Braces:
- Fixed to your teeth, working 24/7
- Require dietary restrictions (avoiding hard, sticky, or chewy foods)
- May cause initial discomfort as cheeks and lips adjust to brackets
- Cleaning requires special tools and techniques
- Regular in-office adjustments every 4-6 weeks
Invisalign:
- Removable for eating, drinking, and cleaning
- No food restrictions
- Smooth plastic causes less irritation to cheeks and lips
- Can brush and floss normally
- Check-up appointments typically every 6-8 weeks
- Aligners must be worn 20-22 hours daily for optimal results
For more detailed information on Invisalign care, the Invisalign official website provides helpful patient resources.
Treatment Effectiveness
Traditional braces have been refined over decades and remain the gold standard for treating complex orthodontic issues. The American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics has published numerous studies confirming their effectiveness for a wide range of cases.
Invisalign technology has advanced significantly in recent years. While initially limited to simpler cases, today’s Invisalign system can address many of the same issues as traditional braces:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbites and underbites
- Crossbites
- Open bites
However, very severe misalignments or complex bite issues may still be better suited to traditional braces. During your consultation at Morristown Orthodontics, we carefully evaluate your specific case to determine which treatment option will give you the best results.
Treatment Duration
Treatment time varies based on individual needs, but generally:
Traditional Braces: Average treatment time ranges from 18 months to 3 years for comprehensive cases.
Invisalign: Treatment typically takes between 6 and 18 months, with simpler cases sometimes completing in as little as 6 months.
The American Association of Orthodontists notes that patient compliance plays a significant role in treatment duration, especially with Invisalign, where wearing aligners for the recommended hours per day directly impacts results.
Cost Considerations
Many patients are surprised to learn that Invisalign and traditional braces often have comparable costs. At Morristown Orthodontics, we believe that financial concerns shouldn’t prevent you from achieving the smile you deserve.
Factors affecting treatment cost include:
- Complexity of your case
- Duration of treatment
- Insurance coverage
- Geographic location
Many dental insurance plans that cover orthodontic treatment apply similar coverage to both traditional braces and Invisalign. Our team works with you to maximize your insurance benefits and can discuss payment plans to make either option affordable.
Best Candidates
Traditional Braces May Be Better For:
- Complex orthodontic issues requiring precise control of tooth movement
- Children and young teens who might struggle with the responsibility of removable aligners
- Patients who prefer not having to remember to insert and remove appliances
- Cases requiring significant tooth rotation or vertical movement
Invisalign May Be Better For:
- Adults and teens concerned about the appearance of braces
- People with active lifestyles or who play contact sports
- Patients with metal allergies
- Those who prioritize easier oral hygiene during treatment
- Individuals with busy schedules who prefer fewer orthodontist visits
Making Your Decision
The right choice between Invisalign and traditional braces depends on your:
- Orthodontic needs
- Lifestyle preferences
- Aesthetic concerns
- Budget
- Personal commitment to treatment
At Morristown Orthodontics, we believe in personalized care. During your consultation, we’ll thoroughly examine your teeth, discuss your goals, and recommend the treatment option we believe will give you the best results.
The Mayo Clinic’s dental health resources can provide additional information about maintaining oral health during orthodontic treatment.
Key Takeaway
Both Invisalign and traditional braces can effectively straighten your teeth and improve your smile. The best choice depends on your specific dental needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Many patients who initially think they need traditional braces are pleasantly surprised to learn they’re candidates for Invisalign, while others find that the reliability of traditional braces better suits their lifestyle.
Ready to explore your options? Contact Morristown Orthodontics at (973) 538-2171 to schedule a consultation at our office located at 161 Washington St, Morristown, NJ 07960. We’ll help you make the right choice for your beautiful new smile.
