General Dentistry

Invisalign® vs Braces

Hear from a Top-Rated Dentist in Bristol, CT

Did you know that approximately nine in 10 people have teeth that are at least slightly misaligned? When it comes to straightening teeth, there are a few different options to choose from. Two of the most popular choices are braces and Invisalign®. But what's the difference between these two methods? And which one is right for you? At Modern Dentistry of New England, we offer both braces and Invisalign® to our patients and pride ourselves in being able to give each patient the individualized care they deserve.

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Understanding the Difference Between Invisalign® and Braces

2 Ortho Treatments, 2 different purposes

What Are Braces?

Braces have been used to straighten teeth for over 150 years. They are made up of metal brackets that are attached to your teeth and held in place by wires. The wires are then tightened or loosened over time in order to gradually move your teeth into the desired position.

What Is Invisalign®?

Invisalign® is a newer method of straightening teeth that uses clear, plastic aligners instead of metal brackets and wires. These aligners are virtually invisible and are custom-made to fit your mouth. You will need to wear them for at least 22 hours per day and will need to switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks or so.

What Are the Differences Between Braces and Invisalign®?

There are several key differences between braces and Invisalign® that you should take into consideration before making a decision about which treatment is right for you. Some of the most notable differences include:

Aesthetics: One of the biggest differences between braces and Invisalign® is the way they look. Metal braces are very visible when you smile, whereas Invisalign® aligners are virtually invisible.

Comfort: Because metal brackets and wires can rub against your gums and cheeks, braces can be quite uncomfortable. Invisalign® aligners, on the other hand, are made of smooth plastic and fit snugly against your teeth, making them much more comfortable to wear.

Cleaning: It can be difficult to brush and floss your teeth properly when you have braces. This can lead to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease. With Invisalign®, you can simply remove your aligners when it's time to brush and floss, making it much easier to keep your teeth clean.

Duration: The average treatment time for braces is about two years. Invisalign® treatment typically takes between six and 18 months.

Cost: The cost of braces and Invisalign® is very similar. However, Invisalign® may be a more expensive option if you have very complex dental issues that require additional treatment.

We'll Help You Navigate Dental Misalignment Issues

At Modern Dentistry of New England, we understand that choosing the right treatment for dental misalignment can be overwhelming. That's why we offer both braces and Invisalign® to our patients. Our experienced and compassionate team will work with you to determine which treatment is right for your individual needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

For more information about Invisalign® and/or braces or to schedule an appointment, call us at (860) 582-4485 or visit our contact page.

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For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us at (860) 582-4485 or click the button below to contact us online.

Why Central Connecticut Patients Choose Us

Modern Dentistry of New England is a beautifully updated dental office located in Bristol, CT. It is the mission of our office to strive for, attain, and deliver the highest level of dental care for you and every other patient in a comfortable and modern setting. To learn more about why our patients continually choose us and opt for care from our professional team, take a look at the reasons below.