Thanks to new technology and advancements, there is now more than one distinct teeth straightener option. Traditionally, when it came to creating a straighter, more beautiful smile, the only option was unmistakable metal braces. However, with the help of experienced and top dental professionals, patients have a clear choice for straight teeth.
When it comes to teeth straightening treatments, many patients are switching from braces to Invisalign, and it’s easy to see why.
Invisalign is the most trusted brand of removable aligners. It is well-known for its comfort, ease of use, and most importantly, its readily implied invisible nature. Clear and indiscernible, Invisalign helps perfect your smile without affecting your appearance and confidence. Additionally, for many patients, it’s becoming the clear choice for teeth straightener treatments.
Straight Teeth with Invisalign
So, if you are looking for Invisalign in Cupertino and the Bay Area, there’s no better resource than Pannu Dental Group.
Our caring team will provide ample guidance when deciding between Invisalign and braces. We’ll also ensure that your teeth straightening procedure exceeds expectations from start to finish.
In the meantime, it’s helpful to have valuable information on the differences between Invisalign versus braces, to get a foundational idea of which teeth straightening option is best for you.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a specific kind of clear aligner custom-made for each individual patient as a long-term and permanent solution to misaligned and/or uneven teeth. Invisalign works by gradually applying pressure to the teeth and slowly guiding your teeth to a perfectly straight position.
Moreover, Invisalign is different because, compared to braces, which are permanently affixed to the teeth and held together with a network of metal wire, the aligners are removable. In addition, they are perfectly clear throughout, so they are unnoticeable when worn. That is why they are a primary choice for patients of all ages who are concerned about their appearance.
How Does the Invisalign Procedure Work?
An Invisalign teeth straightener treatment begins with creating a precise 3D digital scan to ensure your custom-made aligners fit perfectly.
Once your individualized aligners have been created, you’ll wear them for approximately 20-22 hours a day and only remove them for meals. While they are being worn, Invisalign is working behind the scenes to straighten your smile by moving your teeth in micro increments until your perfectly aligned smile is achieved. Invisalign aligners are generally worn for 9-18 months, but this varies based on the patient’s needs.
Invisalign vs. Braces – Understanding the Differences
There are several differences between Invisalign and braces. Cost, appearance, comfort, and ease of use all play a role, and patients will have to consider these different factors carefully before making the best choice for their dental treatment.
The Cost of Invisalign vs. Braces
One of the most common questions about teeth straightening options, is simply “Is Invisalign cheaper than braces?” The answer varies, but only slightly.
The cost of Invisalign and braces is virtually the same, and both teeth straightener options may also be covered by your dental insurance. The only big fluctuation when it comes to any potential cost difference is if you regularly lose or misplace your Invisalign aligners and need replacements.
Invisalign vs. Braces Appearance
When it comes to appearance, Invisalign is the literal clear solution for straight teeth. Even the most advanced clear braces are discernable due to the wires and fixtures on the teeth, while Invisalign aligners are unnoticeable when worn, no matter what.
The Procedure of Invisalign vs. Braces
Invisalign aligners also have an advantage when it comes to the initial treatment and trip to the dentist’s office because the procedure is veritably painless. While Invisalign requires a pain-free 3D scan to create the aligners, braces require more time in the dentist’s chair, as they must be permanently affixed to the teeth. It’s certainly not a very painful procedure, but patients tend to report lingering discomfort for several days after having their braces initially positioned and attached.
Comfort and Ease of Invisalign vs. Braces
Invisalign is also much more comfortable than braces from start to finish, especially if there is an issue or damage during the months-long treatment timeframe. For example, if a wire or other apparatus in your braces breaks, an emergency visit to the dentist’s office may be required. However, if your Invisalign aligners are somehow damaged (which is unlikely), you just must remove them until you can get a replacement set.
Invisalign vs. Braces Maintenance
When it comes to maintenance, braces can have a slight advantage over Invisalign, simply because they are permanent and can’t possibly be lost or misplaced. Using Invisalign aligners effectively requires some vigilance and dedication on the patient’s part. Since they are removable, it’s up to the patient to make sure that they wear their aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours per day. Conversely, braces are constantly worn and are never removed.
Furthermore, there is some diligence required on the patient’s part when it comes to routine braces maintenance, too. For example, patients need to avoid hard or sticky foods, which can damage or break braces and result in an emergency dentist visit. Additionally, patients will need to adhere to a regular and thorough cleaning regime.
Food Restrictions with Invisalign vs. Braces
Since Invisalign aligners are removed during every meal, patients have no restrictions when it comes to the types of foods they can enjoy every day. In addition, wearing and cleaning Invisalign aligners is easy, and requires no excess effort than brushing your teeth. Braces are harder to clean and maintain, and patients must be careful about what they eat to avoid damage.
Invisalign vs. Braces Timeframe
Both Invisalign aligners and braces are worn for roughly the same timeframe. However, the exact amount of time your teeth straightening treatment will last depends on your unique oral health needs.
Ready to Learn More About Invisalign? Pannu Dental Group Can Help!
You don’t have to search far to find the best Invisalign Cupertino or Bay Area provider. Instead, schedule your consultation with the Pannu Dental Group.
Combining the most modern technological advancements in dentistry with a professional team of caring and client-focused professionals, we’re readily available to ensure that your oral health – and your smile – are the best they can be for a lifetime.
Schedule your consultation today!
Dr. Dalvir S. Pannu has been a practicing dentist since 1995. In 1996 he opened his first dental practice in India, where he gained invaluable experience and acumen. In October of 1997 he was invited by the American Dental Association (ADA) to present the table clinic on Endodontics, at their annual session held in Washington, D.C. At this time he fell in love with the United States and became passionate about practicing dentistry in California. He became particularly enamored of the San Francisco Bay area, and soon took up residence and work here.