The Parents' Guide to Choosing Between Invisalign and Traditional Braces

Children and teens often need orthodontic treatment to address alignment issues, such as crowding, crooked teeth, or a misaligned bite. 

Improving the spacing and alignment of your child’s teeth can improve the appearance of their smile, but it can also help lower the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other dental conditions.

However, knowing which treatment approach to take can be challenging. At Hendricks Dental Specialists, in Brentwood, Tennessee, our orthodontists offer traditional braces and Invisalign®. 

This article explains the difference between these orthodontic treatment approaches and highlights factors to consider during your decision-making process. 

Braces vs Invisalign: An overview

Let’s take a closer look at the difference between traditional braces and Invisalign:

Braces

Braces are orthodontic appliances bonded to your child’s teeth. They feature a combination of metal wires, brackets, and rubber bands. Once placed, these devices help align your child’s teeth and jaw through a series of gradual adjustments. 

Braces are versatile and can be used to manage mild, moderate, and severe alignment issues. 

Invisalign

Invisalign also improves the alignment of the teeth and bite. However, instead of using metal appliances, it relies on clear and removable aligners made from a durable thermoplastic. 

Because Invisalign aligners are see-through, they’re more discreet than metal braces. Since they’re removable, your child can also continue eating their favorite foods, which isn’t always possible with braces. 

We typically recommend Invisalign to children and teens with mild or moderate alignment issues.

Factors parents should consider when making a choice

Now that you know how braces and Invisalign differ, it’s important to consider several factors before making a final decision. These include:

Your child’s orthodontic needs

The first thing to consider is the severity of your child’s alignment issues. Are their teeth severely crowded? Do they have a noticeable overbite or underbite? Or are there only mild spacing issues?

We often recommend metal braces for serious alignment issues because they can address even the most complex tooth movements. This level of control is often necessary to improve the alignment and position of the teeth.

Conversely, if your child only has mild or moderate alignment issues, Invisalign offers a discreet and effective option. 

Responsibility and compliance

Invisalign aligners need to be worn 20-22 hours a day for optimal results. Young children and tweens may forget to keep them in or take them out at different times throughout the day, which can affect their treatment.

If you decide to go with this approach, make sure your child is responsible enough to follow treatment instructions. If they’re forgetful or aren’t great at following the rules, metal braces may make more sense. 

Appearance and confidence

Traditional braces have a reputation for being “nerdy” because of how they look. Teenagers are often self-conscious and want to impress their friends. 

Since Invisalign aligners are clear and blend in with the teeth, many teens prefer them, especially if they participate in extracurricular activities or are concerned about their appearance. 

Oral hygiene and diet

Traditional braces need to be cleaned several times daily to prevent food particles and plaque from building up. This process typically involves special brushes and flossers, which can be challenging to maintain for younger children. 

Metal braces also involve food restrictions. For example, sticky and crunchy foods like candy and popcorn need to be avoided. 

Invisalign aligners offer a more convenient alternative because they can be removed for brushing and flossing. 

We can help your family make the right treatment decision

If your child needs orthodontic treatment, but you’re not sure whether Invisalign or traditional braces are best, we can help support your decision-making process. 

After an oral exam, dental X-rays, and a comprehensive orthodontic assessment, our pediatric dentistry team can determine whether braces, Invisalign, or another type of treatment is appropriate.

To request an appointment for your child, call the Hendricks Dental Specialists office today.