Invisalign or Metal Braces? Our Glendale Cosmetic Dentist Helps You Decide

Written by Dr. McKay on Feb 16, 2016

Choosing the right cosmetic treatment from the get go will help you entire treatment process run smoothly. Our Glendale cosmetic dentists are here to help people pick the cosmetic solutions that will work for their smiles, budgets, and timelines.


In this short article we are giving you information about how Invisalign orthodontics and traditional metal braces compare. We hope that this information will help you get a better idea of which of these treatments might be right for you!


Both Invisalign and traditional metal braces can straighten teeth and close gaps in a patient’s smile. However, the ways that these options function are quite different.


First of all, the materials used to achieve results are very different. Invisalign aligners are made entirely of clear plastic resin. Traditional braces, on the other hand, use metal brackets and wires to move teeth.


The mechanics of these treatments also differ. When you choose Invisalign, you’ll wear a series of customized aligners—each one of these aligners will move your teeth a little bit more. If you use metal braces, you will have metal brackets attached to your teeth for the duration of treatment. These brackets are connected by metal wires. Throughout the treatment process our dental team will progressively tighten these wires, moving the teeth ever closer to their ideal positions.


As you’d imagine, you’ll have quite different experiences living with these respective treatments day-to-day. Metal braces stay in place 24/7, and many patients deal with some level of discomfort because the metal irritates oral tissues. Invisalign aligners are smooth plastic, and thus quite comfortable. These aligners are also removable, so you can take them out to eat, drink, and clean your smile.


Our Glendale cosmetic dentists are here to help you make the best decisions possible for your smile. So give us a call to schedule a consultation and get started!