Invisalign vs. Braces: How Do I Choose?

girl smiling with braces

First things first, having your smile and bite evaluated is the critical first step in determining what the best form of treatment is for your teeth. It may be Invisalign and it may be regular braces. During an appointment with Dr. Dan he will discuss all available treatment options that will create the lasting look, alignment and resulting smile you want.

I’ve heard so much about Invisalign, is it for me?

If you are looking to correct your crooked or crowded teeth, Invisalign is a great option for most. Dr. Dan has been trained in cosmetic dentistry at the University of the Pacific in San Francisco, and works with each patient to build a treatment plan that will create a beautiful and memorable smile. For many, Invisalign has proven to be a simple and very functional cosmetic orthodontic treatment option. The best way to find out if your smile goals can be achieved with Invisalign is to schedule an appointment with Ponderosa Dental Group for your evaluation.
The movements that occur during Invisalign treatment aren’t as vigorous as those with braces. Patients enjoy a more natural smile during treatment with Invisalign than those with traditional braces. Invisalign works through a series of clear plastic aligners that are designed to gradually move crooked teeth into a more cosmetically desirable position. Dr. Dan instructs his patients to wear each clear tray for one week, then switch to the next. Together, we will watch your teeth improve with each aligner. We expect to see our Invisalign patients about every two months to ensure treatment is on track. It really is that simple!

What About My Regular Dental Care?

Invisalign trays are completely removable and make cleaning teeth, gums and even flossing much easier. Some patients experience white lines left behind after removal of traditional braces. Whereas, Invisalign creates anchors via “little buttons” on the top of each teeth made out of the same material that is used to fill cavities. These “buttons” eliminate the need for brackets while also eliminating the risk of tooth discoloration. While some patients report feeling these buttons at first, most report that they are easy to get used to with the added benefit of not looking different while receiving orthodontic treatments

Once patients get used to wearing the Invisalign aligners, they don’t even notice them. Patients are now invested and on their way to their gorgeous new smile!

What Are The Time Commitments?

Invisalign aligners are worn for 20-22 hours a day for 3-18 consecutive months, depending on your individual needs. Alternatively, braces are worn 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for an average of two years.

Invisalign can cut the time it takes to straighten teeth in half. It is important to remember that this may not apply to every case, and for some people, it may take longer due to not wearing the trays as often as they should.
Dr. Dan is proud to be an Invisalign provider and can help you design your unique treatment plan for a beautiful smile today!

If you would like to learn more about Invisalign and the other advanced technology we use at our office to improve your smile, please call Ponderosa Dental Group and schedule your appointment with Missoula’s best dentist, Dr. Dan, and make 2022 the year of the smile!

Visit our Instagram page @danmcfarlanddds or our website to see before and after photos of our patients!