A common question people ask is, “What’s the difference between LightForce braces vs. Invisalign, and how do they stack up against traditional braces?” For the nearly 4 million people in the U.S. that either need or have braces, knowing the pros and cons of braces vs Invisalign is helpful when it’s time for treatment.
Ultimately, your orthodontist will guide you through which option best fits your unique needs. For some, Invisalign isn’t the right fit. But for others, it is. Let’s break down Invisalign vs. clear braces, compare the different options, and help you learn your next step!
What’s LightForce?
Technological advances in 3D printing aren’t just for consumer goods. For example, LightForce is a digital orthodontic system that combines the power of 3D printing with advanced digital dentistry. LightForce uses special imaging software to scan your teeth and create custom-fitted brackets bonded precisely to each tooth, compared to traditional metal braces, which aren’t personalized.
The process is fast and effective, and the LightForce braces treatment time is often much faster than other options!
What’s Invisalign?
A popular option for those looking to straighten their teeth is Invisalign. This system provides a series of custom-made transparent aligners to fit your teeth and gradually shift them into the desired position. These aligners are custom-made using advanced 3D imaging technology, similar to LightForce, ensuring an exact and comfortable fit.
Invisalign is popular because it’s nearly invisible and comfortable to wear. You can also remove the aligners while eating, brushing, and flossing, which isn’t possible with braces.
LightForce Braces vs. Invisalign
LightForce braces and Invisalign are both orthodontic treatments used to straighten teeth and correct misalignments. However, they differ in the way they work and their overall effectiveness.
LightForce braces use customized brackets and archwires to shift teeth into the desired position. The brackets are made using 3D printing technology, which allows for a more precise fit and quicker treatment times. Like Invisalign, LightForce braces are designed to be discreet, as the brackets come in white and clear, blending in with your teeth.
Conversely, Invisalign uses a series of clear, custom-made plastic aligners that fit over your teeth instead of on them, making Invisalign more comfortable than braces. Unlike LightForce, patients can remove the aligners, subbing them for new ones or eating, drinking, and brushing. One advantage of both treatments is that they take a custom approach to straightening teeth.
Ultimately, the best treatment option will depend on the patient’s needs and goals and their orthodontist’s recommendation.
Invisalign vs. Clear Braces: Are They The Same?
A common misconception is that Invisalign and clear braces are the same thing. While both aim to straighten teeth and improve dental alignment, they differ in terms of appearance, mechanism, and maintenance.
- Material: Traditional clear braces are made from tooth-colored ceramic, while Invisalign aligners are made from clear plastic, making them more inconspicuous.
- Mechanism: Clear braces use a combination of brackets and wires affixed to the front of your teeth, while Invisalign uses a series of custom-made aligners that fit over your teeth.
- Maintenance: Braces are fixed appliances that remain on the teeth throughout treatment, while aligners can be removed, making oral hygiene easier.
Now that you know a few differences between LightForce braces vs. Invisalign vs. clear braces, which is best?
What’s Better: Braces Or Invisalign?
The best treatment option isn’t always cut and dry. Your orthodontist will ultimately determine which treatment best suits your unique needs and goals. However, it can help to know some of the braces vs. Invisalign pros and cons.
Clear Braces vs. Invisalign Cost
The cost of braces and Invisalign will depend on the complexity of your treatment plan and where you get your treatment. Many orthodontists charge more for Invisalign—however, Bates Orthodontics does not change fees based on the orthodontic appliance that you choose. You’ll want to consult with your orthodontist to determine the cost before moving forward.
Treatment Time
In most cases, patients wearing braces will have a longer treatment time than those with Invisalign. Depending on the complexity of the case, braces can take 18 months to 3 years, while Invisalign can vary from 6 months to 2 years. However, of all the options, LightForce braces’ treatment time has proven to be the fastest.
Comfort Level
Invisalign aligners offer the most comfort of all orthodontic treatments because they are made of a smooth, plastic material that fits flush with your teeth. On the other hand, braces use ceramic or metal brackets that sit on top of your teeth, which can irritate the inside of your mouth.
Dietary Restrictions
One of the significant advantages of Invisalign is that it allows for greater dietary freedom compared to braces. Since Invisalign aligners are removable, you can simply take them out while eating. With traditional braces, there are some dietary restrictions to be aware of. Certain foods can damage the brackets or wires, prolonging treatment time or causing discomfort.
Compliance
Invisalign treatment requires a high level of patient compliance for effective results. Since the aligners are removable, patients must be diligent about wearing them at least 22 hours per day. Compliance with braces treatment is relatively straightforward since the brackets and wires are bonded to the teeth. However, compliance in terms of oral hygiene is important for those with braces.
We can’t say which treatment type is best for you without a proper consultation, but those are just a few considerations to keep in mind.
Achieve Your Dream Smile With Bates Orthodontics
Now that you have a better idea of the pros and cons of braces vs. Invisalign and the differences between LightForce braces vs. Invisalign, it’s time to get started on your path to the perfect smile.
At Bates Orthodontics, we offer a variety of options so you can find the right fit for your needs and budget. We’re committed to helping each and every patient achieve a beautiful and healthy smile, no matter which option they choose. Our friendly staff is always here to answer any questions and provide unparalleled support throughout your treatment.
Schedule a consultation today to start your smile journey with Bates Orthodontics. We look forward to helping you achieve your dream smile!
