Invisalign vs braces: how to choose

How each one works

Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable plastic aligners. Each one moves the teeth a small step, and you change to the next aligner on a set schedule.

Fixed braces use brackets bonded to the teeth and a wire that is adjusted at check-ups. They stay on for the whole treatment.

Side by side

• Appearance: aligners are nearly invisible; braces are visible, although tooth coloured brackets exist
• Removable: aligners come out to eat and brush; braces stay on
• Discipline: aligners only work if worn for most of the day; braces work without you having to remember
• Food: with aligners there are no food restrictions, as they come out to eat; braces need care with hard and sticky food
• Complex cases: some bite problems are better treated with fixed braces

Who is a good candidate for Invisalign?

Many adults with crowding, gaps or teeth that have moved after earlier braces do well with aligners. The deciding factors are the type of movement needed and whether you will wear the aligners consistently.

Why see a specialist orthodontist

A clinic that offers both options can recommend what suits your teeth rather than the one product it sells. At Aesthetic Dental Center, Dr. Rohit Kulshrestha is a specialist orthodontist with an MSc in Orthodontics from the University of Turin. He has been a certified Invisalign provider since 2016, is currently a Gold provider, and also treats with fixed braces.