What Is the Difference Between Clear Braces and Invisalign?

There is a lot of confusion when it comes to the differences between clear braces and Invisalign. People often confuse the two as one and the same. They both can result in straight teeth, but they are some key differences.

Clear Braces and Invisalign Defined

Invisalign is a system involving a series of removable trays. Clear braces are a series of wires and brackets that are affixed to the teeth and cannot be removed without help from the orthodontist.

Invisalign trays must be worn around the clock but cannot be worn while you eat or drink anything other than water. Clear or ceramic braces are worn around the clock but are also worn while you eat and drink.

The Aesthetics

Both clear braces and Invisalign are aesthetically pleasing. They are hard to notice because they are clear and blend with the teeth. Invisalign is a little harder to detect than clear braces because braces that are clear still have brackets to hold them in place, which can be more noticeable.

Average Time to Straighten Teeth

On average, you will wear braces for about two years. The same is true for Invisalign, clear and traditional braces. In some cases, the orthodontist will recommend you go a traditional route to help speed up the process.

Amount of Adjustments

If you choose Invisalign, it requires revisiting the orthodontist periodically to get new trays. With traditional braces (clear) you will also have appointments for adjustments. You can expect to visit the orthodontist about every four to six weeks for adjustments.

Some orthodontists will provide more than one Invisalign tray per appointment, so you may have fewer appointments to keep.

Clear Braces Can Treat More Orthodontic Problems

Ceramic braces can address more problems than Invisalign is designed to address. In some cases, Invisalign is not the right solution. Traditional braces are recommended. Clear braces deliver the same power that traditional metal braces deliver in correcting very crooked teeth, malocclusions, crossbites, and more. Invisalign is not always able to address major or complex corrections.

Invisalign and clear braces are both great options for correcting teeth with a barely-there appearance. The right orthodontist will offer a range of treatment solutions that can help to improve your smile and your oral health. Give us a call to set up a free consultation and learn more today!