Braces Archives

Can You Switch from Braces to Invisalign, and Invisalign to Braces?

Absolutely! You can switch from braces to Invisalign and vice versa. In certain situations, a hybrid treatment approach is utilized, combining both Invisalign and braces to achieve optimal results.

At Kunik Orthodontics in Austin, Texas, we understand that every smile is unique and so are your orthodontic needs. Whether you’re currently wearing braces or Invisalign, you might be wondering if you can switch to the other option.

The good news is that switching between braces and Invisalign is possible, and we’re here to guide you through the process!

1. Can I Switch from Braces to Invisalign?

Switching from braces to Invisalign, known as mid-treatment correction, is a viable option for many patients. This process involves transitioning from traditional metal braces to the more discreet Invisalign aligners.

Mid-treatment correction allows for greater flexibility in your orthodontic journey, adapting to your changing needs and preferences.

The first step in this process is a thorough consultation and assessment with a trusted orthodontist, like Dr. Kunik.

During this consultation, the orthodontist will evaluate your current progress with braces, discuss your reasons for wanting to switch to Invisalign, and determine if you are a suitable candidate for the transition.

This assessment ensures that switching to Invisalign will continue to effectively address your orthodontic needs and help you achieve your desired smile.

Reasons for Switching to Invisalign

Improved Aesthetics: Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, making them a great option for those who feel self-conscious about metal brackets.
Enhanced Oral Hygiene: With removable aligners, brushing and flossing become much easier, promoting better oral health and reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Lifestyle Flexibility: Invisalign allows you to enjoy all your favorite foods without the worry of damaging your braces. Simply remove the aligners before meals and snacks.
Comfort: Invisalign aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth using Invisalign attachments, eliminating the discomfort caused by metal brackets and wires.

Steps to Switch Your Treatment From Braces to Invisalign

Initial Consultation and Evaluation: Your orthodontist will assess your current treatment progress and determine if switching to Invisalign is appropriate for your case.
Removal of Braces: Once it’s decided that you will switch to Invisalign, your braces will be carefully removed. This process is straightforward and prepares your teeth for the next step.
Taking Impressions for Invisalign Aligners: Impressions or digital scans of your teeth will be taken to create custom Invisalign aligners tailored specifically to your dental structure and treatment plan.
Starting the Invisalign Treatment Plan: Once your aligners are ready, you’ll begin your new treatment plan. Your orthodontist will provide detailed instructions on how to wear and care for your aligners to ensure the best results.

Switching from braces to Invisalign can offer a more comfortable, flexible, and aesthetically pleasing orthodontic experience. If you’re considering making the switch, consult with your orthodontist to explore your options and find the best treatment plan for your needs.

2. Can I Switch from Invisalign to Braces?

Invisalign is a popular and effective treatment option, there are circumstances where switching to traditional braces might be beneficial.

Here are some common reasons patients choose to make the switch:

Specific Orthodontic Issues: Certain complex orthodontic problems may require the precise control and adjustments that traditional braces offer. Braces can address severe misalignments, rotations, and other issues that might be challenging for Invisalign to correct alone.
Non-Compliance with Wearing Aligners: Invisalign requires strict adherence to wearing the aligners for at least 22 hours a day. If a patient struggles with maintaining this schedule, switching to braces ensures continuous treatment without the need for patient compliance in wearing removable aligners.
Preference for a Fixed Appliance: Some patients prefer the reliability of a fixed appliance. Braces are always working, which can be reassuring for those who worry about losing or forgetting to wear their aligners.

3. Steps to Switch From Invisalign to Braces

Switching from Invisalign to braces involves several steps to ensure a smooth transition and continued progress in your orthodontic treatment.

Here’s what you can expect:

Consultation and Assessment by an Orthodontist: The first step is to have a thorough consultation with an orthodontist.
Evaluation of Current Progress with Invisalign: The orthodontist will evaluate your current progress with Invisalign to understand how far you’ve come and what adjustments need to be made to transition to braces effectively.
Creating a New Treatment Plan with Braces: Based on the evaluation, your orthodontist will design a new treatment plan tailored to your needs. This plan will outline the use of braces to address any remaining orthodontic issues and achieve your desired results.
Fitting the Braces After Removing Invisalign Aligners: Once the new treatment plan is established, your Invisalign aligners will be removed, and braces will be fitted. This process involves placing brackets on your teeth and connecting them with wires, ensuring they are set up to start working immediately.

At Kunik Orthodontics, we offer flexible orthodontics payment plans for Invisalign, braces, and hybrid treatments!!

4. Can I Use Both Invisalign and Braces?

In some cases, a hybrid approach that combines both Invisalign and braces can be the most effective way to achieve optimal results. This sequential use of both treatments is often recommended for complex orthodontic cases that require the unique benefits of each method.

For instance, braces might be used initially to make significant adjustments to the alignment of your teeth and bite, while Invisalign can be used in the later stages to fine-tune the positioning and provide a more discreet finishing touch.

The benefits of using both treatments for complex orthodontic cases are substantial. Braces offer robust control for significant movements and complex corrections, ensuring that foundational alignment is achieved efficiently.

Once the major corrections are made, Invisalign can take over to complete the treatment with the added benefit of being virtually invisible. This combination allows for a comprehensive treatment plan that maximizes both effectiveness and aesthetics.

Treatment Plan and Process

Creating a combined treatment plan requires the expertise and careful planning of your orthodontist. Initially, your orthodontist will assess your specific orthodontic needs and determine the best approach for your case.

This may involve starting with braces to tackle significant alignment issues, followed by a transition to Invisalign aligners to refine the final positioning of your teeth.

The expected timeline and phases of treatment will be clearly outlined by your orthodontist. Typically, the treatment might begin with several months of braces to address major corrections.

Once the primary goals are achieved, you will transition to Invisalign aligners for the final phase of treatment. This phase might last for a few months, depending on the complexity of adjustments needed. Throughout the treatment, regular check-ups will ensure that both phases are progressing as planned, with adjustments made as necessary to keep the treatment on track.

By utilizing both Invisalign and braces, patients can benefit from the strengths of each treatment method, ensuring a more effective and aesthetically pleasing outcome. This hybrid approach offers flexibility and precision, making it a suitable option for those with complex orthodontic needs.

If you think this combined treatment plan might be right for you, schedule a free consultation with Kunik Orthodontics in Austin, Texas and we’ll tailor a plan that meets your specific needs.

View our Hybrid Treatment Gallery to see before and pictures of braces and Invisalign!

5. Invisalign After Braces: Post-Braces Treatment

In some cases, patients may transition to Invisalign after completing their initial treatment with braces. This approach is often recommended for patients who need minor adjustments or refinements to achieve their ideal smile.

For instance, after the removal of braces, some teeth might shift slightly, or there may be minor alignment issues that need to be corrected.

Using Invisalign for post-braces treatment provides a discreet and comfortable option for these final adjustments. The clear aligners are virtually invisible and can be easily integrated into a patient’s daily routine without the need for additional metal hardware.

Many patients appreciate this option as it allows them to perfect their smile without the noticeable appearance of traditional braces.

Benefits and Success Stories

The benefits of using Invisalign after braces are numerous. One of the primary advantages is the aesthetic appeal of clear aligners, which are far less noticeable than metal braces. Additionally, Invisalign aligners are removable, making it easier to maintain oral hygiene and enjoy all your favorite foods without restrictions.

Success stories abound from patients who have transitioned to Invisalign after braces. Many report a significant improvement in their smile’s final appearance, with the clear aligners effectively addressing minor misalignments and maintaining the results achieved with braces.

This combination treatment can lead to a high level of patient satisfaction and confidence in their smile.

Maintenance and Retention

Maintaining the results after braces is crucial to ensuring that the time and effort invested in orthodontic treatment are preserved. Invisalign can play a vital role in this maintenance phase, acting as a retainer to keep teeth in their newly aligned positions.

Typical retention plans involving Invisalign aligners include wearing the aligners for a specified number of hours each day, often initially full-time and then gradually reducing to nighttime wear. This gradual reduction helps to stabilize the teeth in their new positions.

Additionally, regular follow-up appointments with your orthodontist will help monitor the alignment and make any necessary adjustments to the retention plan.

By using Invisalign aligners as retainers, patients can maintain their beautiful, straight smiles and prevent any unwanted shifting of teeth. This approach offers a comfortable, convenient, and effective way to ensure long-term orthodontic success.

Visit Austin’s Best Invisalign, Braces, and Hybrid Orthodontist!

At Kunik Orthodontics, we are committed to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams with customized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re interested in Invisalign, traditional braces, or a hybrid approach combining both, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Why Choose Kunik Orthodontics?

Expert Care: Our team of highly trained orthodontic professionals is dedicated to providing the highest level of care and expertise.
Customized Treatments: We offer a range of treatment options to suit all ages and orthodontic needs, ensuring personalized care for every patient.
Flexible Payment Plans: With payment plans starting as low as $150 per month, we make achieving your perfect smile affordable and accessible.
Comprehensive Support: From the initial consultation to the final results, we support you throughout your orthodontic journey, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Ready to Get Started? Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discover why we are Austin’s best choice for Invisalign, braces, and hybrid orthodontic treatments. Visit one of our convenient Austin locations and take the first step toward a beautiful, confident smile!

Is Invisalign Better Than Braces?

Ready to straighten your teeth but not sure if you want to go with Invisalign or braces? It’s a common dilemma and one we’re hoping to clear up for you today!

The truth is there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Both Invisalign and traditional braces have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you depends on your individual needs, lifestyle, and preferences.

In some cases, a combination of Invisalign and braces is best! Yes, at Kunik Orthodontics in Austin Texas, we offer hybrid treatments (but more on that later).

To determine which treatment is truly right for you, let’s look at a comprehensive comparison between the two orthodontic treatments and you can decide for yourself if Invisalign is better than braces!

1. Understanding Invisalign and Braces

Invisalign and traditional braces are two primary methods of orthodontic treatment, each with its own distinct characteristics and mechanisms.

Invisalign utilizes a series of clear, removable aligners made from a flexible plastic material known as SmartTrack®. These aligners are custom-made using advanced 3D imaging technology, designed to gradually shift teeth into proper alignment. Patients wear each set of aligners for 1-2 weeks before progressing to the next set, with each aligner applying gentle pressure to specific teeth. Learn more about how Invisalign works here.

On the other hand, traditional braces consist of metal brackets bonded to the teeth’s front surface, connected by archwires and elastic bands. This fixed appliance applies continuous pressure to the teeth, guiding them into the desired position over time. Adjustments are made periodically by the orthodontist to ensure the braces continue to exert the necessary force on the teeth.

2. Pros and Cons of Invisalign

Invisalign has gained popularity for its many advantages, but it also comes with its own set of drawbacks. Let’s explore both sides:

Pros of Invisalign:

Aesthetics: One of the most significant advantages of Invisalign is its discreet appearance. The clear aligners are nearly invisible when worn, allowing patients to undergo orthodontic treatment without feeling self-conscious about their smile.

Comfort: Invisalign aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over the teeth, with smooth edges that minimize irritation to the gums and cheeks. Unlike traditional braces, there are no metal brackets or wires to cause discomfort or abrasions.

Convenience: Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing patients to eat, drink, brush, and floss with ease. There are no dietary restrictions, and maintaining oral hygiene during treatment is straightforward. Learn How to Effectively Clean Invisalign Aligners here.

Cons of Invisalign:

Compliance: Invisalign requires strict compliance to achieve optimal results. Patients must wear the aligners for 20-22 hours per day, only removing them for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene. Failure to wear the aligners as directed can prolong treatment time and affect the final outcome.

Treatment Limitations: Invisalign may not be suitable for all orthodontic cases. Severe or complex issues, such as large gaps, rotated teeth, or significant bite discrepancies, may require the precision and control of traditional braces. Additionally, Invisalign may not be recommended for patients with certain dental conditions or skeletal discrepancies.

Related: Does Invisalign Hurt?

3. Pros and Cons of Braces

Traditional braces have been a staple in orthodontic treatment for decades, offering both advantages and drawbacks. Let’s look into the pros and cons:

Pros of Braces:

Versatility: Traditional braces are highly versatile and can effectively treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, including severe crowding, spacing, misalignment, and bite problems. Orthodontists have precise control over the movement of teeth, allowing for comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Compliance: One of the significant pros of braces is their ability to promote compliance in orthodontic treatment. Unlike removable aligners or other orthodontic devices that require consistent wear and can be easily forgotten or misplaced, traditional braces are fixed onto the teeth. This fixed nature ensures that the braces remain in place throughout the treatment duration, eliminating the need for patients to remember to put them on or take them off.

Cons of Braces:

Appearance: One of the most significant drawbacks of braces is their noticeable appearance. Metal brackets and wires are visible when smiling or speaking, which can make some patients feel self-conscious about their appearance, particularly during the teenage years.

Discomfort: Traditional braces can cause discomfort and irritation, especially during the initial adjustment period and after routine orthodontic adjustments. The metal brackets and wires may rub against the cheeks and gums, leading to soreness and irritation.

Dietary Restrictions: Patients with braces are often advised to avoid certain foods that are sticky, hard, or chewy, as they can damage the braces or get stuck in between the brackets and wires. This can require significant adjustments to one’s diet and lifestyle during the course of treatment.

4. Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Invisalign & Braces

Alignment Issues: Consider the specific orthodontic issues you want to address, such as crowding, spacing, or bite alignment. Invisalign may be suitable for mild to moderate cases, while traditional braces may offer more control for severe or complex issues.

Aesthetic Concerns: Evaluate your preferences regarding appearance during treatment. If you prefer a discreet option, Invisalign’s clear aligners may be more appealing. However, if appearance is not a primary concern, braces may offer a reliable solution.

Complexity: Assess the severity and complexity of your orthodontic issues. Invisalign is effective for many cases but may have limitations in treating severe misalignment or bite problems. Braces provide precise control and may be more suitable for challenging cases.

Diet and Habits: Consider your dietary habits and lifestyle preferences. Invisalign’s removable aligners allow for more flexibility in eating and oral hygiene routines. However, if you’re prone to forgetting to wear aligners or have difficulty maintaining compliance, braces may be a better option.

Cost: Evaluate the cost of each treatment option and how it fits within your budget. The overall cost may vary based on factors such as treatment duration and complexity. Find out if Insurance Covers Invisalign Treatment here.

Professional Evaluation: Schedule a consultation with a dentist or orthodontist to assess your orthodontic needs and discuss your treatment options. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific case and treatment goals.

5. Hybrid Treatments: Invisalign and Braces

Hybrid orthodontic treatment offers a unique and innovative approach to addressing orthodontic issues, particularly for individuals who may have been previously told that braces are their only option for treatment.

This hybrid approach primarily utilizes Invisalign clear aligners but strategically incorporates short periods of wearing clear cosmetic braces to enhance treatment outcomes and address specific orthodontic challenges that may not readily respond to clear aligners alone.

1. Enhanced Treatment Efficacy: By combining the benefits of Invisalign clear aligners with clear cosmetic braces, hybrid treatment aims to enhance treatment efficacy, especially for cases that require more precise control or correction of specific malocclusions.

2. Accelerated Treatment Progress: Interspersing clear cosmetic braces within the Invisalign treatment plan can help expedite the orthodontic process by providing additional force and control during certain phases of treatment.

3. Expanded Treatment Options: Hybrid orthodontic treatment expands the range of treatment options available to patients by offering a middle ground between Invisalign and traditional braces.

4. Personalized Treatment Plans: At Kunik Orthodontics, we tailor hybrid treatment plans to each patient’s unique needs and orthodontic concerns. During the initial consultation, we assess factors such as the severity of malocclusions, tooth alignment issues, and patient preferences to develop a customized treatment approach that optimizes outcomes while prioritizing patient comfort and convenience.

5. Advantages of a Free Consultation: A free consultation provides an opportunity for you to learn more about our unique hybrid orthodontic treatment and explore whether it’s the right option for your orthodontic needs. During the consultation, we can evaluate the patient’s dental condition, discuss treatment goals and expectations, and address any questions or concerns about the hybrid approach.

Related: How Much Does Invisalign Cost?

So – Is Invisalign Better Than Braces?

Ultimately, the decision between Invisalign and braces should be made in consultation with an experienced orthodontist. Orthodontists can evaluate your orthodontic needs, discuss treatment goals and preferences, and recommend the most appropriate option based on your circumstances.

For some patients, Invisalign may be the preferred choice due to its discreet appearance, removability, and comfort. Others may opt for braces for their versatility and treatment efficacy. In certain cases, hybrid treatments combining aspects of both Invisalign and braces may be recommended to optimize treatment outcomes.

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option and prioritize factors such as treatment goals, and lifestyle. By partnering with a knowledgeable orthodontic provider, you can make an informed decision and start on a journey toward achieving a straighter, healthier smile!

Ready to learn more? Schedule Your FREE consultation here!

Invisalign Vs Braces

Do you want to know the secret to achieve a smile you love? Orthodontic treatment! Invisalign and braces are two of the most popular treatments for straightening teeth, but what are they exactly?

Braces consist of metal or ceramic brackets and wires attached to the teeth – while Invisalign is a set of clear, removable aligners that gradually move the teeth into the desired position over time.

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing between Invisalign vs. braces, which is why we’ve created this comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision about which treatment (or combination) is right for you! Let’s dive in.

Differences Between Invisalign Vs. Braces

One of the differences between Invisalign and braces is their appearance. Braces consist of visible metal or ceramic brackets and wires fixed to the teeth, which some people find unsightly. In contrast, Invisalign aligners are clear and virtually invisible, which makes them an attractive option for those who want a more discreet treatment.

Here are some other key differences:

Comfort: Both Invisalign and braces can cause some discomfort during treatment. Braces may cause irritation to the lips and cheeks, and the wires may need to be tightened periodically, which can be uncomfortable. On the other hand, Invisalign aligners are smooth and comfortable to wear, with no sharp edges or wires to irritate the mouth.

Duration of treatment: The duration or length of treatment is typically the same whether you go with Invisalign or Braces.

Cost: At Kunik Orthodontics, the price is the same for either Invisalign or braces. The cost of treatment is determined by the length of your treatment.

Maintenance: Both Invisalign and braces require maintenance throughout the treatment. For braces, the wires and brackets need regular cleaning to avoid plaque buildup and cavities (and you cannot have any hard foods and no hard candy, no chewing on ice, no chewing on pencils, pens, etc. ) Invisalign aligners need to be cleaned every day to prevent discoloration and bad breath and the aligners need to be removed before eating or drinking anything other than water.

Effectiveness: Invisalign and braces are both effective at correcting dental issues such as overcrowding, gaps, and misaligned teeth. Kunik Orthodontics near Georgetown, Texas, is known for doing complex cases with Invisalign or a combo of Invisalign and braces.

Let’s take a closer look at the advantages of Invisalign

Now that we have a general understanding of the difference between Braces Vs. Invisalign, let’s explore the advantages of Invisalign in more detail.

Invisalign Aesthetics: As mentioned earlier, one of the advantages of Invisalign over braces is its aesthetic appeal. Invisalign aligners are clear and virtually invisible, meaning you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing. This is particularly appealing to adults or teens who may feel self-conscious about wearing traditional braces.

Convenience of Invisalign: Invisalign aligners are removable, which makes them more convenient than traditional braces. You can easily remove them when you need to eat, brush your teeth, or floss. Additionally, there are no dietary restrictions with Invisalign, as you can remove the aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water.

Invisalign Maintenance: Maintaining good oral hygiene is important during orthodontic treatment, and Invisalign makes it easier to do so. Unlike traditional braces, which can make cleaning and flossing difficult, Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing for easier brushing and flossing.

Specific Advantages of Braces over Invisalign

While Invisalign has many advantages, traditional braces also have their own set of benefits.

Severe dental Issues: In some cases, braces can be a better option for treating more severe dental issues, such as significant crowding or bite problems. The brackets and wires used in braces apply more force to the teeth, allowing for more significant movement than Invisalign aligners. With Invisalign, patients wear rubber bands to fix bite problems (Jaw alignment is only fixed through jaw surgery).

Compliance: While braces require more maintenance than Invisalign, they can also be more forgiving when it comes to compliance. Since braces are not removable, patients don’t have to worry about forgetting to wear them or misplacing them. Additionally, since braces cannot be removed during treatment, there is no temptation to snack or eat certain foods that could damage the aligners.

Invisalign vs. Braces: Can be used together to obtain optimum results!

We believe the best treatment plans are custom to the client! Patients like coming to Kunik Orthodontics in Austin, Texas, because we operate off what makes sense for each individual rather than selling a specific product.

Going into any office in the health industry can be frustrating. You don’t feel seen, it doesn’t seem like they care about your time, and they are usually not interested in creating a unique treatment plan just for you. In some cases, we recommend a combination of Invisalign and Braces!

What does it mean to create a unique treatment plan?

Dr. Kunik considers several different factors when deciding on a patient’s treatment plan. Then based on those criteria he decides if braces are the best route or Invisalign. Some of the best plans include limited braces and then switching to Invisalign. If Dr. Kunik feels like the best course of treatment is Invisalign but the patient is worried about compliance, no need to fear, the switch to braces is no additional charge.

What are the criteria Dr. Kunik considers?

Finding out about your lifestyle and tailoring the treatment plan to your life is how Dr. Kunik can achieve optimum results. When you meet with Dr. Kunik or one of his treatment coordinators, they will want to know what your daily life looks like.

What do you do for work?
Do kids keep you busy?
Have you had orthodontics before, and how were your previous orthodontic experiences?
Do you have a timeframe in mind?
Are you trying to hit a deadline like a reunion or wedding?
What are your goals?
What about your smile is distracting to you?

Once they learn about YOU, they can give you advice on a plan that fits YOUR lifestyle and goals.

What is an example of someone who would be advised to use braces and Invisalign together?

We met a 33-year-old woman with a wedding date approaching and smile goals that needed to be met. Dr. Kunik and his treatment coordinators created a plan to deliver the perfect wedding smile. They presented the plan of 8-10 weeks in braces to get vertical movements done quickly and efficiently.

Then, we removed the braces and switched to Invisalign with a few attachments to get the smile just right for the wedding. Two weeks before the wedding, we removed the attachments and gave complimentary at-home teeth whitening. We gave her the smile that made her feel confident and radiant in all her wedding photos.

Another example:

An 18-year-old patient came in with a very high canine and was open to Invisalign or braces. They were leaving for college in 3 months and were not able to come in after they moved away for braces adjustments. Their treatment plan was for 3 months of braces to get the high canine down and level with the other teeth quickly, and then before moving to college, remove the braces and switch to Invisalign. We were able to mail the Invisalign trays to our patient and then watch their progress through a program we offer called Dental Monitoring.

Does it cost more to use braces and Invisalign together?

Dr. Kunik sees both Invisalign and braces as tools we can use to align teeth. The cost of treatment at Kunik Orthodontics is not dependent on the tool we use, instead, we base our treatment fees on the length of treatment. Our treatment plan can range from 4 months to 30 months depending on the level of difficulty of each case. During the treatment length, we will use any tool available to us to get you the desired result.

How do I find out my recommended treatment plan?

We strive to make exams as convenient as possible. We offer virtual exams or we have in-person exams.

In-person exams can be with Dr. Kunik or with one of his treatment coordinators depending on availability and patient preference. We love to be the first, second, or even third opinion if you would like to hear what we can do for you. We see everyone from ages 7- 99.

Schedule your FREE consultation here. We are looking forward to meeting you!