When it comes to realigning teeth to improve one’s visual appeal and ability to bite, chew, and speak comfortably, people may choose to get metal braces. Though these braces are common, clear aligners like Invisalign can also shift teeth without a bold metal look. Treatment time is the deciding factor for orthodontic treatment for many people, but are metal braces faster than Invisalign?
If you’re contemplating improving your smile and bite with metal braces in Louisiana, Maldonado Orthodontics can help. As orthodontic specialists, we offer metal braces and clear aligners to help straighten teeth. Below, we break down the speed and efficiency of metal braces vs. Invisalign for your convenience.
Comparison: Metal Braces vs. Invisalign Speed
Despite the many reasons to smile beautifully, some people struggle with their smiles due to their teeth. Misaligned, crooked, gapped, and crowded teeth may benefit from orthodontic treatment like metal braces or Invisalign.
Metal braces consist of metal brackets and wiring that gently shift teeth into a more desirable position over time. Though traditional braces are effective, they are highly noticeable because an orthodontist bonds the brackets to the front of the teeth. On the other hand, Invisalign uses a series of clear dental aligners to shift teeth, making them less noticeable.
So, the question stands, are metal braces faster than Invisalign? Consider the following details about the speed of metal braces vs. Invisalign below.
Time Required for Metal Braces vs. Invisalign
Ultimately, the treatment time for any orthodontic treatment depends on the type of correction the treatment is making and the severity of the dental or facial problem. When you consult with an orthodontist for the first time, they’ll discuss your symptoms and examine your teeth. Depending on their expertise and your condition, the orthodontist will develop a personalized treatment plan with a treatment duration estimate.
Due to a person’s specific needs and individualized treatment, a person could see results from wearing metal braces in as little as six months. However, the average treatment time is between 20 and 24 months. Invisalign treatment averages around seven to 18 months, so it would appear that the clear aligners generally work faster than the traditional route.
Effectiveness of Metal Braces vs. Invisalign Treatment Time
Clear aligners and metal braces are highly effective at shifting teeth. Yet, how both treatments work plays a direct role in their treatment times.
If you get braces, your orthodontist will bond brackets to the misaligned teeth. The wire that feeds into the braces will help shift the misaligned teeth every time you get a brace adjustment. The more your teeth need to move to achieve optimal positioning, the longer it will take for your metal braces to work.
Invisalign usually moves faster than metal braces because the aligners fit all of your upper or lower teeth. You’d wear each tray in your series for about two weeks before switching to the next aligner. All of your teeth will gently shift together with each tray you wear.
Comfort Wearing Invisalign vs. Metal Braces
Though you may feel slight discomfort when you first put on your Invisalign aligners due to the pressure they apply to your teeth, they quickly become comfortable to wear. The trays are removable, which is necessary for eating, drinking, and dental hygiene, but you have to wear them at least 20 hours a day.
Braces aren’t removable. Some people think they’re a little uncomfortable to wear after adjustments.
Start Your Orthodontic Treatment Today
Are metal braces faster than Invisalign? Though some people can notice results from traditional braces in as little as six months, the average metal braces vs. Invisalign duration is 24 months and 12 months respectively. No matter your choice, you can count on the board-certified professionals at Maldonado Orthodontics in Louisiana to help you select the best option. Our dental practice prioritizes individualized orthodontic treatments for young and mature patients. We work closely with our patients through every step of their orthodontic treatment, from consultations to brace adjustments. We’re ready to help; call (225) 869-3753 to schedule an appointment and learn more.
