Differences between invisible braces and traditional aligners

We have explained in this article Everything you need to know about invisible braces what the methods and characteristics of invisible orthodontics are, but now let’s see the differences between transparent braces and traditional braces and the advantages/disadvantages of these techniques for aligning teeth and correcting the imperfections of our smile.

First of all, both invisible and traditional orthodontics have the same afficacity in achieving definitive and long-lasting results. If used consistently and following the specialist’s instructions, both solutions will lead to a perfectly aligned smile. Let us now take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of the two types of aligners in terms of aesthetics, comfort, treatment duration, material strength, hygiene and cost.

Aesthetics
The aesthetic fact is what more than any other determines the choice of invisible braces over traditional ones. Polyurethane braces are in fact completely transparent and are applied to the arch, adhering perfectly to the teeth. They are therefore much less visible than traditional metal braces and those with ceramic or sapphire plates.

Comfort and hygiene
Transparent splints, unlike conventional braces, are removable and can be carried anywhere. They can be removed before eating or brushing your teeth or for special occasions when you do not want them to be seen.

Duration
Treatment with transparent braces can vary from case to case and on average the treatment lasts about 6 months. Traditional braces, on the other hand, start from a minimum duration of 18 months to proper giving results.

Resistance
Traditional braces, despite the improvements brought about by new technologies, have a lower impact resistance than invisible braces because they are made of harder materials than polyurethane, which is more malleable. Furthermore, traditional braces made of metal, ceramic or sapphire can be damaged by hard or acidic food, which is not the case with invisible braces because they are removed before eating.

Cost
Among traditional braces, ceramic ones are the least expensive, even compared to invisible masks. However, compared to its beginnings, invisible orthodontics has also significantly lowered the cost of treatment, which however varies depending on the duration and complexity of the cases.