If you have been thinking about straightening your teeth, you have probably come across two main options: clear aligners such as Invisalign®, and traditional fixed braces. Both can give you a straighter, healthier smile, but they work in different ways and suit different people. Here is a friendly, practical comparison to help you decide.
Fixed braces use brackets bonded to the front of your teeth, joined by a wire. Your dentist or orthodontist adjusts the wire at regular appointments to gradually move your teeth into position.
Invisalign® uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners. You wear each set for one to two weeks before moving on to the next, and each set moves your teeth a small amount. Your treatment is planned digitally from the start, so you can see a simulation of your expected result before you commit.
This is often the deciding factor for adults. Invisalign® aligners are nearly invisible, and most people will not notice you are wearing them. Fixed braces are more visible, although tooth-coloured ceramic brackets are available.
Invisalign® aligners are smooth and removable, so there are no wires or brackets to rub against your cheeks. You take them out to eat and drink anything other than water, which means no food restrictions and easy brushing and flossing.
The flip side is that you need to wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day for them to work. Fixed braces cannot be removed, so there is no risk of forgetting to wear them, but you will need to avoid hard and sticky foods and take extra care with cleaning.
Modern Invisalign® treatment can correct a wide range of problems, including crowding, gaps, overbites, underbites and crossbites. In very complex cases, fixed braces may still be the better option. The best way to find out is a proper assessment with an experienced provider.
At castle street, dr kishan lakhani is recognised among the top 150 Invisalign® providers in the world, and the practice is a diamond apex Invisalign® provider.
At castle street, Invisalign® starts from £2,900 for Invisalign® lite, £3,400 for Invisalign® moderate and £3,900 for Invisalign® full. A full orthodontic assessment costs £25, which is deducted from your treatment if you go ahead. You can also spread the cost with 0% finance over 12 months.
For under 18s with a clear clinical need, NHS orthodontic treatment with fixed braces may be available free of charge through a referral.
If you want a discreet, flexible option and are confident you can wear your aligners consistently, Invisalign® is often a great fit. If your case is very complex, or you would rather not have to think about wearing aligners, fixed braces may suit you better.
The easiest way to decide is to come and talk to us. We will look at your teeth, show you what is possible and give you honest advice about the best option for you. Call us on 01494 527971 to book your Invisalign® assessment.
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