The overall purpose of braces and Invisalign® clear aligners is to bring your teeth into better alignment, whether you wish to straighten crooked teeth, fill a gap in your teeth, or minimise crowding. All orthodontic solutions involve applying pressure to the teeth in order to move them gradually. However, the similarities between Invisalign® clear aligners and conventional braces end here.
Conventional braces involve brackets that are cemented to each tooth, and a wire connects them. On the other hand, Invisalign® treatment is a system of clear plastic aligners that fit over the teeth and are removable. These aligners are also known as “invisible braces” since they are difficult to notice. Because Invisalign® aligners can be removed, cleaning your teeth will be much easier during your treatment. However, some people find wearing them for 20–22 hours every day bothersome. While wearing the clear aligners, you are not permitted to eat or drink anything other than water. People who may be tempted to skip a day or leave their clear aligners out for more than four hours a day may benefit from fixed braces that cannot be removed. If these criteria are not followed, treatment will be less effective or take longer.
Invisalign® treatment is suitable for almost everyone. However, while they can correct most orthodontic issues, the most severe malocclusions and more complex issues will still require traditional braces and, sometimes, even surgery.