When to Choose Braces Over Invisalign®

Invisalign® and similar brands promise a straight smile without metal brackets. These companies customize clear plastic aligners to gradually shift your teeth into their proper positions, meaning Invisalign can correct a wide range of smile problems — but not all.

Beyond the orthodontic need for braces, some people choose them because they’re generally more affordable. And they don’t require you to take out (and keep track of) small clear pieces of plastic each time you want to eat or drink.

Ultimately, the right option depends on your preferences and your mouth. Because Nisha Modi, DMD, and our team offer braces and Invisalign, we can help you determine the most beneficial choice for your situation. Visit us at Miracle Smile Dental in Aubrey, Texas; Dr. Modi can recommend your best option. 

When braces are the better choice

Invisalign works well for tooth alignment issues that are mild to moderate. As you get into more precise corrections, though, braces work better. One study found that one in six Invisalign patients switched to braces. 

That correct orthodontic treatment depends on what’s going on in your mouth. Generally, you should opt for traditional braces if you’re dealing with:

• Severe tooth crowding
• Rotated teeth
• Large gaps between teeth
• Displaced teeth
• Severe bite problems

Some people choose braces instead of Invisalign for a different reason. Traditional braces are generally more cost-effective and worth considering if you want a budget-friendly option.

There’s a final reason braces might be better. Invisalign aligners are removable. You need to take them out to eat — and then brush before you put your aligners back in.

You should wear the aligners for at least 20 hours daily for them to work effectively. People with busy schedules or who aren’t disciplined might struggle to wear the aligners enough to improve their smile. If you don’t like taking your aligners out to enjoy a cup of coffee, for example, braces might be better for you. 

Less visibility with clear braces

You’re not entirely out of luck if you need braces but prefer a less visible way to straighten your teeth. At Miracle Smile Dental, Dr. Modi and our team offer clear braces. 

When you choose this option, we make the brackets that we bond to your teeth out of ceramic rather than metal. This way, they more closely match your teeth and, consequently, are less noticeable.

In short, you have options for correcting smile problems. To explore which orthodontic treatment is best for you, call our team at 469-765-3567 or book an appointment using our convenient online scheduling tool.