Should You Get Invisalign or Ceramic Braces?

One of the reasons people are apprehensive about getting braces is they are so visible. This has become less and less of an issue with braces, even with traditional silver braces, because the brackets are smaller. But if you want to keep your smile looking uncluttered while straightening your teeth, you have some excellent options available, with the most popular being ceramic braces and Invisalign.

What Are Ceramic Braces?

This variation of traditional braces offers all of the same benefits as conventional silver braces, but in a style that isn’t quite so obvious. Ceramic braces include all of the same elements you expect with braces, but the brackets are made from medical-grade ceramic rather than metal. Additionally, the brackets are either clear or colored to match the tone of your teeth, so your braces will be far less visible compared to silver braces. 

How Invisalign Works

The Invisalign Clear Aligner System is a revolutionary orthodontic treatment option that changed the game when it was introduced in 1999. As opposed to a traditional set of braces, which includes brackets, wires, and elastics, these clear aligners include only two pieces: one tray for your upper teeth and one for your lower teeth. Each Invisalign tray covers the teeth completely and guides them toward their final positions. 

These trays are entirely clear, resulting in a smile that looks no different than when the trays are out. Additionally, you can remove the trays for eating and anytime you sip on something other than cool water. 

Choosing Between Ceramic Braces and Invisalign

Both ceramic braces and Invisalign have unique benefits that could make them a good option for you. Ceramic braces treat the full range of orthodontic issues traditional silver braces treat, including severe crookedness and crowding. Because of this, any patient can use ceramic braces.

Invisalign has advanced over the years and is now able to treat a broader range of cases, thanks to Invisalign attachments. If you qualify for Invisalign, you can expect excellent results both in terms of a straight smile and better oral health. 

Beyond the advantage of treatment being unnoticeable while your teeth are being corrected, being able to remove your aligners for meals means you won’t have to worry about food restrictions. This is a clear advantage over traditional braces, but it’s also particularly advantageous over ceramic braces. While it’s always best to stick to non-staining foods, you may have to be extra careful with ceramic braces since dark-colored foods and beverages can discolor them. 

On the other hand, you may prefer the structured element of having braces since you can’t take them out. When you have Invisalign, you’ll need to make sure to keep your aligners in at least 22 hours per day to complete your treatment on time, which will take a little extra discipline. 

To learn more about clear orthodontic treatment options and to figure out which one is best for you, contact Crescent Orthodontic Specialists today and schedule a free consultation.