There is sometimes confusion regarding the differences between Invisalign and Clear Braces. Some even refer to Invisalign as “clear braces.” However, these are both two entirely different ways of straightening teeth, so we would like to clarify the variations between the two. Both Invisalign and Clear Braces are ways of straightening teeth that are far less noticeable than typical metal braces in that they are both clear.
Clear Braces
Clear Braces work exactly the same as metal braces, but the brackets are made out of porcelain that can be matched to your tooth color. Additionally, the arch wire that connects the brackets to each other can be white. The ligatures (small rubber bands) that hold the brackets in place are clear, which makes Clear Braces a more attractive option than traditional metal braces.
Clear Braces require regular visits to tighten or adjust the arch wire. This places pressure on the brackets and, over time, your teeth will slowly move into place. Porcelain brackets can stain slightly over time, but they are made to be as non-porous as possible. The elastic bands can yellow a bit but we switch them out at each appointment. Clear braces can treat the most challenging cases with quality results.
Invisalign
Invisalign can also be used to treat complex cases; in fact, we have had patients come to us who have been told that their case is too complex, yet Dr. Taylor can treat many of these folks. He is one of the few Elite Invisalign Providers in the Rio Grande Valley. Criteria for this designation are steep, but over the years, Dr. Taylor has restored hundreds and hundreds of smiles using this method, with quality results. If someone has told you that your needs are too complex, but you are still interested in Invisalign, we urge you to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to see if you are in fact a candidate.
Invisalign is a method of straightening teeth that involves clear, plastic aligners that fit your teeth perfectly and change out every couple of weeks. Each new aligner moves your teeth slightly into the correct position. Invisalign looks like a mouth guard except that we mold it to your teeth, making it virtually invisible. Another advantage of Invisalign is that the trays are removable and you take them out for drinking, eating, and maintaining dental hygiene.
An Exact Digital Model of Your Teeth
With Invisalign, we make a digital model of your teeth; in fact, we can make an exact replica of your teeth digitally. This technology also allows for digital transformation of your teeth so that you can see the “after” results before you even start treatment!
Dr. Taylor creates this digital treatment plan and sends it to Invisalign, where they make each aligner according to his specifications. After this, they send all the aligners to our office, having been custom-made just for you. We provide you with all of your aligners at the beginning of treatment with instructions on when to change them out, so you have fewer office visits with Invisalign compared to Clear Braces.
There is some prep work required on your teeth prior to wearing your aligners, but it is minor. Dr. Taylor will bond a series of attachments — also called “bumps” — to your teeth. This is so that the aligners have something to grasp to and move your teeth slowly into place. We match these bumps to your teeth color, making them virtually invisible as well.
For more information or to schedule your FREE CONSULTATION,
Call: 956-621-7907
Or fill in the form below and we will contact you.
Pros and Cons for Invisalign and Clear Braces
- We permanently attach clear braces to your teeth. This can be a better option if you don’t think that you will be able to keep your Invisalign aligners a full 22-hours each day.
- Clear braces can be used for the most complex cases with high-quality results.
- Clear braces require regular orthodontic appointments for adjustments.
- While not completely invisible, clear braces are much less noticeable than traditional metal braces.
- Like their metal counterparts, clear braces require some food restrictions, as you would want to avoid biting directly into sticky or hard foods because this could cause damage to your brackets or wires.
- Invisalign aligners fit perfectly over your teeth and are virtually invisible.
- You can remove aligners for eating, drinking, and for dental hygiene. This makes it possible to continue to eat any types of food that you would like, and brushing and flossing teeth is easier.
- While you don’t have to worry about food restrictions, you do need to make sure and not drink any liquids other than water while you have your aligners in. If you don’t do this, bacteria can form under your aligners and create cavities.
- When removing your Invisalign aligners to eat and drink, it can be easy to throw them away by accident. We suggest always putting your aligner in its designated container to avoid this from happening.
- Aligners need to be cleaned daily.
- Because we deliver your aligner trays to you at the beginning of your treatment plan, fewer visits are required to the orthodontist than with clear braces.
- We can use Invisalign in many cases, but not for some severe conditions.
We Offer Many Options
At A Perfect Smile Orthodontics, we offer Invisalign and clear braces. Additionally, we have other options, such as traditional metal braces. If you are thinking of getting braces for yourself or a family member, we hope you will reach out to us for help! Our clinic is family-friendly, and we take pride in providing quality care at affordable pricing in a compassionate and caring environment! We value our patients and are grateful for every person who allows us to service their orthodontic needs!
Schedule a Free Consultation
See how affordable your new smile could be by scheduling a Free, No-Obligation Consultation with us here at A Perfect Smile. We are happy to spend as much time with you as needed so you will know your best options for getting a beautiful smile! We love being a part of the community here in the Rio Grande Valley and want you to feel perfectly at home with us!
When you call, ask about the $500 Off Braces or Invisalign special offer. We offer interest-free payment plans through in-house financing with no credit checks to help all of our patients with their orthodontic needs! Additionally, we can check your insurance for any benefits that you may be able to use.
We look forward to meeting you and helping you obtain the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted!
For more information or to schedule your FREE CONSULTATION,
Call: 956-621-7907
Or fill in the form below and we will contact you.
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