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The Clear Choice: Deciding Between Metal Braces and Invisalign for Orthodontic Care

metal braces and Invisalign
White Brown Smiles
October 20, 2024

When it comes to straightening your smile, you’re likely weighing two main options: metal braces vs Invisalign. Both methods are highly effective, but they offer different experiences in terms of appearance, lifestyle, and results. Whether you’re a teenager or an adult, choosing between the two can shape not only the look of your smile but also the duration and convenience of your treatment. Let’s compare metal braces vs Invisalign to help you make the best decision for your orthodontic needs.

Visibility and Aesthetic Appeal – Invisalign’s Clear Aligners vs Metal Braces

One of the most noticeable differences between metal braces and Invisalign is their aesthetic appeal. Let’s be honest — traditional metal braces are highly visible. For many, the thought of wearing metal brackets and wires can be a cause of self-consciousness. Metal braces have certainly come a long way in terms of design, with options like colored rubber bands to make them more fun; however, they remain prominent on your teeth.

Invisalign, on the other hand, steps up in the realm of discretion. Made from clear, durable plastic, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for individuals who don’t want their orthodontic treatment to be the first thing people notice. Whether you’re in school, at work, or attending social events, it’s likely that no one will even realize you’re wearing them.

When comparing metal braces vs. Invisalign, aesthetics play a huge role for many people. If maintaining your natural appearance is a high priority, Invisalign may have the edge.

Time to Results – Which Offers Faster Treatment?

Both braces and Invisalign are designed to gradually shift your teeth into alignment, but they don’t always take the same amount of time to achieve those results.

Metal braces are often the go-to for more complex orthodontic cases — issues like severe overcrowding, bite misalignment, or large gaps. Since metal braces are fixed in place and can provide continuous pressure, they excel in treating a wider range of dental issues. Depending on the severity of the case, metal braces usually remain on for 18 to 36 months.

Invisalign is primarily recommended for milder to moderate orthodontic concerns such as minor crowding or space issues. Invisalign aligners are custom-made for each phase of treatment, and you’ll typically receive a new set every one to two weeks. While the overall treatment time for Invisalign can be shorter — often around 12 to 18 months — it largely depends on the complexity of your case. Patients with more significant orthodontic issues may not see faster results than those with traditional braces.

Whether you choose metal braces or Invisalign, the timeline depends on the severity of your dental issues and your compliance with treatment. For example, Invisalign aligners need to be worn 20-22 hours a day for best results.

Daily Care and Lifestyle Adjustments – Ease of Use Compared

When it comes to everyday life, the experience of wearing braces vs Invisalign differs greatly. You will have metal braces fixed to your teeth, which means you’ll need to adapt some daily habits, especially around eating and oral hygiene. Sticky, crunchy, and hard foods are generally off-limits, as they can damage the brackets or wires. You’ll also need to take extra care when brushing and flossing, as you can easily trap food particles in your brackets.

Invisalign offers more flexibility in this regard. Because the aligners are removable, you can continue enjoying all your favorite foods — just take the aligners out before meals. Brushing and flossing is also much easier because you don’t have any hardware in the way. However, you’ll need to clean both your Invisalign trays and your teeth regularly to avoid staining the clear aligners.

For athletes or individuals who often play contact sports, metal braces may require additional protective gear like a mouthguard. Invisalign is more adaptable in these scenarios, as you can simply remove the aligners during practice or games.

In terms of daily wear and general comfort in the metal braces vs Invisalign debate, Invisalign often gets the nod for convenience. However, it’s important to remember that since they are removable, Invisalign wearers must commit to wearing their aligners as directed — typically 20-22 hours a day — otherwise, you risk extending the length of your treatment.

Conclusion: Braces vs Invisalign – Which Is Right for You?

Ultimately, the decision between metal braces and Invisalign depends on multiple factors: aesthetics, lifestyle, and the complexity of your dental issues. Metal braces may be the better choice if you have a more complicated orthodontic case or prefer a more hands-off approach to treatment. Invisalign might suit those looking for a more discreet, flexible option.

Call our office and schedule your complimentary consult with an orthodontist to see which option — metal braces or Invisalign — best aligns with your goals. Whichever option you choose, both methods will help you achieve a healthier, straighter smile.

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Our Reviews

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Hear from past patients about their life-changing experiences and why they trust our team for their family’s care.

Joya M.
I had such a great experience today thanks to Shala! She was my assistant while getting my braces put on, and she made the whole process so much easier. We were talking and laughing the entire time it really helped calm my nerves. Shala was super friendly, professional, and made me feel comfortable from start to finish. Thank you for making what could’ve been a stressful appointment actually enjoyable!
Monaa S.
It was literally a vibe the entire time!!! Shala was amazing!! I love her ♥️
Kaniya H.
I got my braces put on today and myg Shala made sure that the process went very smoothly I just met her today but feels like I known her for forever lol. So if you’re ever thinking about getting braces or feel like you need them or just want a new SMILE come to White Brown Smiles on Oneil Court
Shakiya B.
Very thorough and gentle. Miss. Sharon was so nice. I fell alseep during my session with her. Lol
yvonne H.
Shala was very professional and amazing and she was very knowledgeable. She was helpful and made sure I was comfortable and even help me with my colors of rubber bands. Hope I get her next time.
Jalonda W.
Let me start by saying, I’ve been to a consultation for braces before but I don’t remember it being this warm and welcoming. Everyone was nice, very informative and explained everything they were doing every step of the way. I went to the Oburg location, Dr. Brown was very thorough and quick, I can see why her office was recommended. Looking forward to my journey with her the next 3 years! And also the plan was very much affordable to get started.
Aloneise
Getting my braces on was very quick and painless ayana was very skilled in the application
Diamond J.
💗💗 everyone is so friendly and I was handled with care, wouldn’t want to go anywhere else. Looking forward to the rest of my treatment :) and Ms.Sharon is the sweetest!
Devaun M.
My appointment went great. My tech was very thorough letting me know what was going on each step of my aligner install. Also provided clear instructions on carrying for my aligners.
Yaya did great, and thank you!
Domonique B.
Mr . Roosevelt was very helpful & kind . I'll be looking forward to seeing him each & every time , I come in for my appointments 😊 .
Jahisha W.
"From the moment I stepped into Rosevelt's office, I knew I was in excellent hands. His charismatic and polite demeanor instantly put me at ease, and his professional manners shone through in every interaction. With a decade of experience under his belt, Dr. Rosevelt clearly knows his craft. He took the time to explain every step of my orthodontic journey, ensuring I felt informed and comfortable. What truly sets him apart is the amazing customer service he and his team provide. It's rare to find a dental professional who is not only skilled but also genuinely cares about their patients' well-being. If you're looking for an orthodontist who delivers exceptional results with a smile, Rosevelt is the one!"
Rachael B.
Roosevelt is patient and kind! Very knowledgeable!! Hope I get him next visit 🩷🥰
Terrianna C.
Shayla and Roosevelt at Florence SC white brown smile highly recommend very arm opening nothing but good laughs and vibes would definitely recommend to anyone. :)
Demarius W.
Shala was very knowledgeable, understanding, and helpful wasn’t rude or disrespectful and made sure I was good before I left
Ed & Liz S.
We are in the middle of the braces process for my son in middle school, and we have had a terrific experience so far with the doctor and all her technicians! The one time that we had trouble with something, they brought us right back in and found a solution right away. They are really great about answering all my questions since this is the first time we have dealt with braces.
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