Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces: Which is Best for My Child?

When your child needs orthodontic treatment, you want to make the right choice for their oral health and smile. Invisalign® and traditional braces are the two most popular ways to straighten teeth, but each has pros and cons, and it's not always easy to know which is best.

At Austin Advanced Dentistry, we offer both options and can help you find the right fit for your child's needs, lifestyle, and orthodontic goals. Here's what you need to know about how Invisalign and traditional braces work so you and your child can start their orthodontic journey on the right foot.

Invisalign vs. traditional braces: the basics

Invisalign is a system that uses clear, removable aligners to shift teeth into place gradually. The aligners are custom-made for each patient and must be worn for 20-22 hours daily. They are virtually invisible, making them popular for older children and teens who prefer a more discreet orthodontic treatment.

Traditional braces use metal or ceramic brackets and wires to align teeth. They are fixed to your child's teeth, and we periodically adjust them to keep their teeth moving in the right direction. While they are more noticeable than Invisalign, modern braces are smaller and more comfortable.

The pros and cons of Invisalign

Invisalign has a few distinct benefits. Since the aligners are clear, they're nearly invisible, making them a good choice for children, teens, and adults alike who are worried about the aesthetics of traditional metal braces.

Plus, no metal brackets or wires means less irritation to the gums and cheeks, making Invisalign a potentially more comfortable treatment option. Because your child can remove the aligners to eat, brush, and floss, oral hygiene is easier, and there are no foods they need to avoid during treatment.

There are a few drawbacks to Invisalign, and it's important to consider your child's personality when choosing their orthodontic treatment. For example, your child must remember to wear the aligners for at least 20-22 hours daily. Since removable aligners can be easily misplaced if not stored properly.

Even if you think your child is responsible enough for Invisalign, it's not always the best choice in every case. Invisalign is effective for mild to moderate alignment issues, but severe cases may require traditional braces.

The pros and cons of traditional braces

Like Invisalign, traditional braces have pros and cons that are worth considering. In general, braces are a more effective option for complex orthodontic cases, and they can correct issues like crowding and severe tooth and bite misalignment. Since braces aren't removable, there's no risk of losing them or forgetting to wear them.

However, there's no denying that braces are more noticeable. Metal brackets and wires are visible, which some kids may not like. Your child may need to avoid certain hard, sticky, or chewy foods during treatment to prevent damage to their braces, and wearing braces can make brushing and flossing more difficult.

How to choose the right option for your child

The best orthodontic treatment for your child depends on their specific case, maturity level, and personal preference. If your child is responsible enough to wear aligners consistently, Invisalign may be a great option. However, traditional braces might be the better choice if they have a more complex case or struggle to keep track of their aligners.

At Austin Advanced Dentistry, we offer comprehensive orthodontic consultations to evaluate your child's needs and recommend the best treatment plan. Whichever option you choose, we're here to guide you through the process and help your child achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Call us at 512-886-6734 or request an appointment online now.