Choosing the right procedure to straighten your teeth is a decision that can have long lasting effects on your smile and overall oral health. You’re not the only one trying to decide between Invisalign and traditional braces in Mississauga. We get many people at Mistry Dental who want to know the difference between the two. We’re here to help you out. Both are orthodontics and each has its pros and cons. We want to give you the information you need to make the best decision for yourself.
For years traditional braces have been used to fix many different types of dental problems. They are made up of metal brackets that are attached to the front of your teeth and linked by wires. The orthodontist adjusts the tension on these wires over time to slowly move your teeth into place. Braces work well and can fix even the most complex cases of teeth that are not in the right place. People recommend them for younger patients whose teeth and jaws are still growing but adults can also benefit from traditional braces. Teeth whitening safely removes stains to reveal a brighter, more radiant smile. Professional whitening delivers results that over-the-counter products cannot match. It’s a simple way to refresh your confidence.
Invisalign on the other hand is a newer way to straighten teeth. Invisalign doesn’t use metal brackets and wires. Instead it uses a series of clear, removable aligners that are custom made for you and fit snugly over your teeth. People who want a less noticeable option choose these aligners because they are almost invisible. You wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before moving on to the next one. Over time your teeth will slowly move into place. Adults and teens who are self conscious about wearing metal braces choose Invisalign instead.
One of the biggest differences between braces and Invisalign is how they look. Because of the metal brackets and wires, traditional braces are visible. Invisalign aligners are clear and less noticeable. Invisalign’s invisibility is a big plus for many people especially those who work in professional settings or just want to keep their teeth out of the spotlight. Some patients on the other hand don’t mind how braces look and might even choose colorful bands to make their braces stand out.
When you compare Invisalign and braces, comfort is another thing to consider. Braces can sometimes hurt the inside of your cheeks and lips especially after they have been adjusted. The brackets and wires can rub against the sensitive tissues of your mouth which can be painful. Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic and are usually more comfortable to wear. You can take them out if you need a break but it’s recommended to wear them for at least 20 to 22 hours a day to get the maximum benefits.
In terms of keeping your mouth clean, Invisalign is hands down better. Brushing and flossing can be hard with regular braces because you have to work around the brackets and wires. If you don’t clean your teeth well, food particles can get lodged which raises the risk of cavities and gum disease. You can brush and floss normally with Invisalign by taking off the aligners. This makes it a lot easier to keep your mouth clean during your treatment.
Another thing to consider is diet. If you have traditional braces, you won’t be able to eat several foods that can break the brackets or get stuck in the wires. Foods that are sticky, firm or chewy are usually off limits. You don’t have to worry about what you eat with Invisalign because you take the aligners out before you eat. This means you can eat all your favorite meals without worrying about hurting your braces.
The duration of treatment depends on how complex your case is and which treatment you choose. Invisalign treatment takes about 12 to 18 months but some people can finish it sooner. Traditional braces take 18 to 24 months but this can vary. We look at each patient at Mistry Dental and create a customized treatment plan that shows how long it will take and what will be done.
Another thing to consider is the cost. The cost of Invisalign and regular braces is usually the same but can vary depending on how complex your case is and how long the treatment will take. Some dental insurance policies cover part of the cost of braces so it’s good to check with your provider to see what’s covered. We also have many payment options to make treatment more affordable for you.
Invisalign requires a lot of effort and discipline so bear that in mind. It’s easy to take out the aligners more often than you should because they are removable. To get the best results though, you need to wear them for at least 20 to 22 hours a day. If you’re not convinced you can follow this schedule, traditional braces might be a better option because they are fixed in place and work 24/7.
We at Mistry Dental know how to use both Invisalign and regular braces. We’re here to help you choose the best one for you. During your appointment, we’ll examine your teeth, talk about your goals and lifestyle and recommend the treatment that would work best for you. We know every patient is unique so we take the time to create a plan that’s just right for you.
We recommend you book an appointment with us if you live in Mississauga and are deciding between braces and Invisalign. We’ll go over the pros and cons of each option with you and answer any questions you have. We want to help you have a healthy, beautiful smile that fits your budget and lifestyle. At Mistry Dental, you’re in good hands whether you choose Invisalign or traditional braces. Call us today to start your journey to a straighter smile. Pediatric dental care focuses on building lifelong oral health habits for children. Gentle, personalized care ensures every visit is positive and stress-free. Early prevention sets the foundation for a healthy smile that lasts.