Guide to Orthodontic Treatments: Braces vs. Invisalign

Orthodontic treatments like braces and Invisalign have transformed dental care by providing effective solutions for misaligned teeth, bite problems, and other orthodontic issues. While both options ultimately aim for a straighter smile, they work in very different ways, each with unique benefits and considerations. This guide takes an in-depth look at how traditional braces and Invisalign work, helping you make an informed decision about the best option for you.

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Understanding Traditional Braces

Traditional braces are the most established form of orthodontic treatment. Comprising a system of metal brackets and wires, braces exert controlled pressure on teeth, gradually shifting them into the desired alignment. Here’s how the process works in detail:

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1. Initial Assessment and Treatment Planning

Before braces are applied, an orthodontist will assess the patient’s teeth, jaw, and bite alignment. This process usually includes a clinical examination, x-rays, and dental impressions to create a customised treatment plan tailored to the patient’s unique dental needs. Treatment planning with braces is particularly effective for complex cases, such as severe overcrowding, overbites, and underbites.

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2. Application of Brackets and Wires

Once the treatment plan is finalised, the orthodontist bonds small brackets made of metal (or sometimes ceramic for a more discreet appearance) onto the surface of each tooth using a dental adhesive. These brackets act as anchors, holding the archwire in place. The archwire is then threaded through the brackets, creating the tension needed to move teeth. Tiny rubber bands, or ligatures, hold the wire to the brackets and come in various colours for added customisation.

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3. How Braces Move Teeth

Braces work by applying continuous, gentle pressure on teeth over an extended period. The archwire’s tension pulls on the brackets, exerting force on the teeth to gradually shift them in the right direction. This force also affects the surrounding bone. Orthodontic treatment triggers a biological response where the bone tissue around the teeth remodels, making space for teeth to move into the correct alignment. As the treatment progresses, the orthodontist adjusts the wire’s tension to keep the teeth moving towards their intended positions.

• Bracket Placement: Brackets are strategically placed at specific angles, affecting the direction and speed at which each tooth moves.
• Archwire Tension: The archwire’s flexibility and tension determine how much pressure is applied. Thicker wires are used as treatment progresses to apply more precise force.

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4. Monthly Adjustments

Every 4-6 weeks, patients return to the orthodontist for adjustments. During these visits, the orthodontist may change the archwire, tighten or replace ligatures, and sometimes add components like rubber bands or springs for additional pressure. These adjustments are critical to the treatment, ensuring that the teeth continue moving according to the treatment plan. Although adjustments can cause slight discomfort, it typically subsides within a few days.

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5. Additional Components

For patients with severe bite issues, braces may require additional components:

• Elastics (Rubber Bands): Rubber bands can be attached to hooks on the brackets, linking the upper and lower jaws to correct bite alignment.
• Headgear: In rare cases, headgear is worn outside of the mouth to adjust the alignment of the jaw, though modern orthodontics has reduced its usage.
• Power Chains: Power chains are elastic bands connecting multiple brackets, used to close gaps and align teeth more efficiently.

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6. Completion and Retention

After reaching the desired alignment, braces are removed, and a retainer is provided. Retainers are essential to prevent the teeth from shifting back. They maintain the results achieved and are often worn full-time initially, transitioning to night-time use over time.

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Understanding Invisalign

Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth. These aligners are custom-made for each patient and replaced approximately every two weeks to continue shifting the teeth toward their ideal positions. Invisalign offers a more discreet option than braces, making it popular among teens and adults seeking a subtle approach to orthodontics. Here’s how Invisalign works:

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1. Initial Consultation and Digital Scanning

The Invisalign process begins with a digital scan of the patient’s teeth using a 3D scanner. This scan creates a digital model, which Invisalign’s software uses to simulate the entire treatment process. Unlike braces, which require a physical impression, Invisalign’s digital scanning is precise and comfortable, providing an accurate map of tooth positioning and alignment goals.

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• Digital Treatment Plan: Using the scan, Invisalign’s software generates a digital treatment plan that shows how the teeth will move with each aligner tray. Patients can visualise their final results and better understand the progression of their treatment.

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2. Creation of Custom Aligners

Invisalign aligners are custom-made using BPA-free plastic. Each aligner is manufactured to exert a specific amount of force, guiding the teeth to the next step in the treatment plan. The aligners fit snugly over the teeth and are nearly invisible, offering a more aesthetic alternative to braces.

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• Precision Cuts: Aligners are made with precision cuts to fit each patient’s unique dental structure. These cuts ensure a secure, comfortable fit and prevent irritation to the gums and cheeks.
• Attachments (SmartForce): Small, tooth-coloured attachments may be bonded to certain teeth to provide anchor points for the aligners, helping them apply more targeted force. These attachments are essential for addressing specific alignment issues, such as rotations and extrusions.

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3. How Invisalign Moves Teeth

Each aligner in the Invisalign series is slightly different from the previous one, applying incremental pressure to shift the teeth toward their ideal positions. By wearing each aligner for 20-22 hours per day, patients ensure continuous force, facilitating steady progress over the treatment duration. As with braces, Invisalign’s pressure also triggers a biological response, leading to bone remodelling that makes space for the teeth to move.

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• Sequence of Aligners: Aligners are worn sequentially, each aligner shifting the teeth closer to their final positions. Switching aligners every 1-2 weeks allows for continuous, gradual movement.
• Targeted Pressure Points: Aligners are designed to apply pressure only to specific teeth, moving them with precision that can sometimes be challenging for braces.

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4. Regular Monitoring and Replacement of Aligners

Every 6-8 weeks, patients visit their orthodontist for progress checks. These appointments are typically shorter than braces adjustments, as they primarily involve monitoring and issuing new aligners. Compliance is crucial with Invisalign; aligners must be worn for the recommended hours each day to stay on track with the treatment plan.

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5. Retainers and Post-Treatment

Similar to braces, Invisalign requires post-treatment retention to maintain the results. After completing the last set of aligners, patients receive a retainer to keep the teeth in place. Invisalign retainers, often known as Vivera retainers, are custom-made and should be worn regularly to prevent any movement back to the original positions.

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Comparing Treatment Effectiveness

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Complex Cases

Traditional braces remain the preferred choice for more complex orthodontic issues, including significant crowding, severe misalignments, and bite correction. The durable, fixed nature of braces ensures continuous pressure, which is often essential for these cases.

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Mild to Moderate Adjustments

Invisalign is highly effective for mild to moderate alignment issues. It works well for those with minor crowding, spacing, and aesthetic adjustments, offering faster results for cases that do not require substantial movement.

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Patient Compliance

While braces require regular care, Invisalign depends heavily on patient compliance. Aligners must be worn for at least 20-22 hours daily to achieve results, whereas braces are fixed and work continuously. For those likely to remove aligners frequently, braces might be the better choice.

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Cost and Insurance Considerations in Australia

The cost of both treatments depends on factors such as treatment length, complexity, and the orthodontist’s fees. In Australia, the typical cost ranges are:

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• Braces: $4,000 to $9,000
• Invisalign: $6,000 to $9,500

Most private health insurance policies in Australia with extras cover can assist with orthodontic treatments. It’s worth checking with your provider to see how much they cover for braces versus Invisalign, as some may have different rates or policies for each option.

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Maintenance, Comfort, and Appearance

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Braces

Braces require specific maintenance, including careful cleaning around brackets and wires. They also come with dietary restrictions, as certain foods can damage the brackets and wires.

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Invisalign

Invisalign aligners should be removed for eating and cleaned regularly to avoid staining. While more comfortable than braces in most cases, Invisalign aligners may still cause slight discomfort as the teeth shift.

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Appearance

Invisalign’s clear aligners are a significant benefit for those prioritising discreet treatment. Braces are visible, but ceramic options can make them less noticeable.

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Conclusion: Choosing the Right Treatment

Braces and Invisalign each have their strengths, and the right choice will depend on individual needs, lifestyle, and budget. Braces are effective for complex cases requiring substantial correction, while Invisalign offers an aesthetic, convenient solution for minor to moderate issues.

For personalised advice, book a consultation with Skye Dental. Our team can help you determine the most suitable treatment, guiding you every step of the way toward a straighter, more confident smile.

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