I'm Ready for Braces: Is Invisalign® the Best Choice?

Making the decision to get braces is a milestone moment, one that marks the beginning of your journey toward your best possible smile. But there are also important decisions to make about which orthodontic approach is right for you. 

At BH Dental NY, Leslie Azran, DDS, and her team are happy to help you choose the best possible path forward. Our practitioners at our office in the Morningside Heights area of Harlem, New York City, are here to help get you started on a path toward a straighter smile. 

Invisalign is not the best fit for everyone

While Invisalign can treat a wide range of common orthodontic needs, there are cases in which traditional metal braces offer a better treatment path. Because metal braces are affixed to each tooth, the treatment wire that connects them can create different pressure than what is possible with Invisalign. 

That means that people who have advanced alignment problems might be better served going with metal braces. Some metal brackets also have tiny hooks, allowing you to wear treatment elastics that create very specific types of pressure to move teeth into enhanced alignment. 

The good news is that it’s a simple process to determine if Invisalign is an option for you. During your initial visit Dr. Azran will assess your bite and explain which orthodontic treatments offer the best fit for your unique needs. You’ll even get an idea of what your treatment timeline might look like. 

Why people choose Invisalign

People love Invisalign for a number of different reasons. One is the fact that you can straighten your smile without the gleaming metal grin that comes with traditional braces. Invisalign uses clear plastic aligner trays that fit snugly over the surface of your natural teeth. Most people won’t even notice you’re wearing aligners. 

Easy dental hygiene is another reason why Invisalign is such a popular choice. When it’s time to brush and floss your teeth, all you have to do is pop out your aligners and go through your normal routine. 

With metal braces, brushing and flossing takes more time and special techniques. All of those metal surfaces and contact points with your teeth give plaque and bacteria excellent places to hide, so you need to take special care to hit all of those areas when you brush and floss. 

Drawbacks of Invisalign

The ability to remove and replace your aligners is also the biggest “con” of choosing Invisalign. Your aligners only work while they’re in place, so it’s absolutely critical that you wear them around the clock, removing them only while eating and during your oral hygiene routine. 

Every time you switch to a new set of aligners you can expect a day or two of soreness. This is the same sensation you’d get when a new wire is placed with metal braces. The difference is, you can choose to remove your Invisalign trays to ease the soreness. 

Invisalign success requires compliance with Dr. Azran’s treatment guidelines. If you aren’t sure you’ll be able to stick with the program and wear your aligners as prescribed, then metal braces might be a better solution. 

Still not sure about Invisalign? We can help

If you’re still considering your options, set up a time to come in to BH Dental NY for a personalized consultation. Dr. Azran will sit down with you and discuss your treatment needs and goals, providing all the details you need to make an informed decision about your care. 

When you’re ready to embark on a path toward your ideal smile, we’re here in the Morningside Heights area of Harlem, New York City, ready to assist. Booking a visit is fast and easy regardless of whether you choose to connect with us online or over the phone, so don’t delay!