Teenagers often want to correct their smile but they don’t want to walk around with a mouth full of metal, rubber bands, and noticeable brackets. That is why there are the orthodontic treatment options of Invisalign and clear braces.

Invisalign and clear braces are two different types of orthodontic treatment that are designed to improve your teen’s smile by shifting and moving the teeth into their proper place. While both orthodontic options can improve your teen’s smile, one option may be better for your teen. Learn about the differences between Invisalign and clear braces.

Understanding More About Invisalign and Clear Braces  

Before you can learn about the differences between clear braces and Invisalign, you need to know more about what is involved with each orthodontic treatment option.

Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic trays to move and shift your teeth into proper position. Each of the trays is designed slightly different from each other. When you wear them, they force your teeth to slowly shift into the new position. Once the teeth are in their new position, you take out the aligner tray and replace it with the new one. This is done until your teeth reach their final position.

Clear braces, on the other hand, are very similar to traditional braces. When you get clear braces you will have the brackets, rubber bands, and archwire. However, instead of having those bright, noticeable wires and brackets everything is tooth colored. This gives the appearance that you aren’t wearing braces.

Which is More Invisible?

While both Invisalign and clear braces promise to allow you to change your smile without anyone noticing, one is more noticeable than the other. Since clear braces uses wires and brackets, people will be able to see them up close. Invisalign, on the other hand, is almost completely clear. In fact, people hardly notice you are wearing the clear plastic aligners even when they are up close to you.

Which Option Treats Moderate to Severe Orthodontic Cases?

Invisalign is great for correcting overcrowded teeth or gaps. However, it isn’t always successful at treating severe orthodontic problems. If you have severe orthodontic problems, such as extremely crooked or misaligned teeth and crossbites, you may not be a good candidate for Invisalign and will need to get clear braces.

Want Bright, White Shiny Teeth? Choose Invisalign

Staining is a huge issue with clear braces. If you smoke, like to drink dark colored beverages like tea and soda, or eat acidic or brightly colored food, you may develop noticeable stains. The stains won’t be noticeable while you have braces, but once they are moved you may notice them.

People who want bright, white teeth immediately after straightening their teeth may want to consider Invisalign. Staining doesn’t occur as often with the clear plastic trays because you are able to properly brush and floss.

Which Option is Less Painful?

Your teen will experience slight pain, pressure, and discomfort with both Invisalign and clear braces. The pain occurs because the teeth are shifting and moving to their new position which can be uncomfortable.

If your teen is looking for the least painful option of the two treatment options, they will probably want to choose Invisalign. The clear plastic aligner trays don’t cause gum irritation like clear plastic braces. The brackets and wires of can sometimes rub against your teen’s cheek and gums which can cause pain and discomfort.

Which Treatment Options has Food Restrictions?

One of the most frustrating aspects of undergoing orthodontic treatment is having to give up some of your favorite foods. That also happens with Invisalign.

When you eat, you are encouraged to remove the clear Invisalign trays. Removing the clear plastic trays is extremely easy and allows you to eat your favorite foods but you can also break the bumps in your teeth so you have to be careful also.

If you have clear braces or clear aligners,  you will still need to follow the same food restrictions that come with traditional braces. You will have to avoid popcorn, nuts, crunchy and chewy foods, and other things.

Which Option is Right for Your Teen?

It depends on their personalities, does your teen loses their phone,  the keys to their car, or house? Do they have a clean room and organized closet? Do they have good oral hygiene? Do they follow instructions well? Does your teen want to improve their smile? Call Valderrama Orthodontics to schedule an appointment for an orthodontic consultation. Our experienced orthodontist will discuss treatment options with your teen and help them determine what option is the best.