Looking to straighten your teeth in Aotearoa? Whether you’re considering Invisalign or traditional braces, it’s vital to weigh the pros and cons to find the right orthodontic solution for you or your whānau. At clinics like Howick Dental Surgery in East Auckland, both options are available—here’s a helpful guide to help you choose.
What Are Traditional Braces?
Traditional braces use metal or ceramic brackets bonded to your teeth, linked by wires that are periodically tightened to shift teeth into alignment. They’re suitable for nearly any type of bite or misalignment, including complex issues like large gaps, severe crowding, or rotated teeth.
Visits are usually required every 4–6 weeks to adjust wires and monitor progress.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses a customised series of removable, virtually invisible plastic trays to gently and gradually move teeth. At Howick Dental Surgery, Invisalign is promoted as highly comfortable, easy to clean, and ideal for people looking for more discreet treatment.
Patients typically wear their aligners for 20–22 hours daily and swap trays every 1–2 weeks. Orthodontic check‑ups are spaced farther apart—around every 6–8 weeks.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Traditional Braces | Invisalign |
| Effectiveness | Best for complex or severe alignment challenges | Best for mild to moderate cases |
| Appearance | Visible brackets and wires | Nearly invisible clear trays |
| Comfort | Can irritate lips and gums; adjustments may hurt | Smooth, custom‑fit trays reduce irritation |
| Cleaning | Brushing/flossing around wires and brackets | Remove aligners for easy oral hygiene |
| Diet | Avoid sticky or hard foods | No dietary restrictions—remove aligners to eat |
| Appoints Required | Monthly adjustments | Check‑ups every 6–8 weeks |
| Cost (NZ typical) | Comparable to Invisalign; variation applies | Similar range; depends on complexity and provider |
Who Should Choose What?
- Choose Traditional Braces if you have severe crowding, rotated teeth, or need comprehensive bite correction.
- Choose Invisalign if you want a subtler orthodontic solution, have mild to moderate alignment issues, prefer removable trays, and can comply with wearing them consistently.
Why Invisalign at Howick Dental Surgery?
Howick Dental Surgery offers Invisalign as a comfortable, clean, and convenient option for adults and teens. Their expertise includes initial scans, treatment planning, and ongoing supervision to ensure effective. They also provide traditional brace options for complex cases.
Both Invisalign and traditional braces can achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. Your choice will depend on your dental needs, comfort preferences, aesthetic concerns, and willingness to follow the treatment plan.
In Auckland and across New Zealand, the team at Howick Dental Surgery can help you decide which orthodontic path fits your lifestyle and expectations—ensuring a healthy smile that works for you.
Ready for straighter teeth? Book in for an initial consultation to get tailored advice on Invisalign or traditional braces from their accredited team.
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