When patients come in to ask if Invisalign or traditional braces would be better for them we tell them that both can work great but the decision really depends on several key factors that are unique to each case. You need to think about your orthodontic needs, your lifestyle, your age and how committed you are to making the treatment work. Invisalign Teen is designed specifically for younger patients who want a convenient and subtle option. The Invisalign Teen system includes features that support growing mouths and active lifestyles.
For decades traditional braces have been the way to fix complex orthodontic problems. They can fix teeth that are too close together, have bad bites or need to be in the right place. The wires and brackets keep a steady amount of pressure on the teeth and let you control their movement very precisely. We recommend braces for patients at Marrecau Orthodontics who have severe cases that need a lot of corrections or when we need to make sure the upper and lower jaws move in sync.
Invisalign has come a long way and can now fix many problems that used to only be fixable with braces. This treatment works great for people who have mild to moderate crowding, spacing problems or bite concerns. Many adults and teens who want a less noticeable treatment option choose the clear aligners because they look good. One of the biggest differences between the two is how much responsibility the patient has to take. Braces work all the time since they can’t be taken off so they work even if the patient doesn’t want them to. Patients who choose this option have to wear their Invisalign aligners for 20-22 hours a day to get the results you want. This requires a lot of personal discipline and commitment.
Lifestyle often plays a role in choosing a treatment. Patients can take off their aligners with Invisalign so they don’t have to worry about what they can and can’t eat. When you get braces, you have to stay away from some foods to keep your mouth clean. When you get braces, you have to stay away from certain foods to keep them from getting damaged.
Age and maturity are important when choosing a treatment. Invisalign works well for responsible teens who want to do well, while braces work better for teens who might forget to wear their aligners. Most adult patients have the self-control to get good results from Invisalign. Call us today to schedule a consultation and we’ll discuss your orthodontic needs and which option is best for you and your family. Ultimately it’s up to you and your family to decide.
Dr. Tomas Marrecau brings a strong academic background and a genuinely patient-focused approach to orthodontic care. After studying molecular biology at Princeton and completing dental school at Tufts, he finished his orthodontic residency at the University of Pennsylvania, gaining advanced training in modern treatment techniques. At his Parkland practice, he focuses on individualized care, creating treatment plans that fit each patient’s needs and long-term goals. Outside the office, he stays active through tennis, golf, and travel, keeping the same easygoing energy he brings to his work.