What is the difference between Invisalign and traditional metal braces?

Brandie | March 25, 2010

Columbus Invisalign Dentist talks about the differences between Invisalign and metal braces.

Orthodontics is the term used for straightening teeth to a more ideal position to look  and function better.  Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic trays to accomplish this movement, while traditional braces uses metal wires to achieve the movement.

Both Invisalign and metal braces can be used to straighten your teeth.  The majority of patients choose Invisalign over metal braces because they don’t want the “metal-mouth” look.

Compare Invisalign to Metal Braces	Invisalign	Metal Braces
Can be removed to brush and floss your teeth	Yes	No
People can’t tell you are wearing them	Yes	No
Can be removed to eat foods you love	Yes	No
Are comfortable to wear	Yes	No
Can get you straight teeth in less than 12 months	Yes	Not usually
Are covered with some types of dental insurance	Yes	Yes
Cause cuts and sores on cheeks and lips	No	Yes
Make you look like a teenager	No	Yes
Must spend lots of time in dental chair getting adjustments	No	Yes

• Dr. Bill Thompson has be using Invisalign(sometimes referred to as clear braces) to straighten teeth since 2002.
• Invisalign may be used to straighten crooked or crowded teeth, closing unsightly gaps, correcting deep bite, correcting bites out of alignment, and even some TMJ issues.
• Dr. Thompson has used Invisalign for all kinds of cases (simple to extreme).
• Patients love Invisalign.  No one can see that they are wearing braces, and the trays are comfortable and easy to use.
• Visit our Invisalign page for tons more Invisalign information

Dr. Bill Thompson is one of the most experienced Invisalign dentists in Columbus, Ohio. 

*** There are currently only 2 Invisalign Premier Providers in Columbus.  Dr. Bill Thompson and a Dr. in Grove City.  In order to become a Premier Provider you must have at least 24 new Invisalign patients start treatment every 6 months.  The average Invisalign dentist in Columbus has less than 10 new Invisalign patients each year.  Our experience makes your experience, better.