Orthodontic treatments like braces and Invisalign are common options for misaligned teeth, bite problems, and other orthodontic concerns. While both options 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 option that may suit 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, a dentist 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 suited to 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 dentist 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 dentist 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 dentist for adjustments. During these visits, the dentist may change the archwire, tighten or replace ligatures, and sometimes add components like rubber bands or springs for additional pressure. These adjustments are important to the treatment, helping 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 help 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 intended 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 treatment process. Unlike braces, which require a physical impression, Invisalign’s digital scanning is comfortable and provides a 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 expected progression and better understand 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 help provide a secure, comfortable fit and reduce 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 help address 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 intended positions. By wearing each aligner for 20-22 hours per day, patients maintain continuous force, supporting 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 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 dentist for progress checks. These appointments are typically shorter than braces adjustments, as they primarily involve monitoring and issuing new aligners. Compliance is important 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 help prevent movement back to the original positions.

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Comparing Treatment Suitability

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Complex Cases

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

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Mild to Moderate Adjustments

Invisalign is well suited to mild to moderate alignment issues. It works well for those with minor crowding, spacing, and aesthetic adjustments, and can offer 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 dentist’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 often more comfortable than braces, Invisalign aligners may still cause slight discomfort as the teeth shift.

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Appearance

Invisalign’s clear aligners are a 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 well suited to complex cases requiring substantial correction, while Invisalign offers an aesthetic, convenient option for minor to moderate issues.

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

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