Orthodontists help patients whose teeth are not aligned correctly. If you suffer from an overbite, an underbite, or a crossbite, orthodontic treatment can correct your alignment issues. Teeth that are crowded and crooked can also be straightened using orthodontic techniques. Metal braces are the most common orthodontic treatment, but some people prefer a different option. Clear aligners like Invisalign braces can help patients get aesthetically pleasing, straight teeth. Here are three ways that Invisalign braces differ from traditional braces:

1. They are not bonded to your teeth.

Traditional braces are bonded to the front of patients' teeth using dental adhesive. This adhesive is very strong and allows brackets to stay in place for the entire length of treatment, which could be 18 months or longer. In contrast, Invisalign braces are not bonded to patients' teeth. These braces can be removed at will, which gives patients more freedom when it comes to eating, drinking, and cleaning their teeth.

2. They must be removed before eating.

People who wear traditional braces continue to do so while eating. This limits their dining options since certain foods can damage metal braces. Chewing gum, taffy, whole fruit, popcorn, and other common treats can break brackets and wires. People who wear clear aligners will need to remove their aligners before eating meals and snacks. Since you won't have your clear aligners on while eating, you'll be able to eat any food you desire. Just make sure to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth before putting your clear aligners back on in order to prevent food from getting trapped in your teeth.

3. They allow you to floss your teeth as usual.

Invisalign braces should be removed before patients clean their teeth. This gives patients better options when it comes to teeth-cleaning methods. For instance, flossing between the wires of traditional braces can be difficult, often requiring special types of floss or water jet cleaners. People who wear clear aligners have the opportunity to clean their teeth exactly how they normally would. This can help you clean your teeth more thoroughly so you can prevent cavities and tooth stains.

Invisalign braces offer many advantages to patients. These clear trays are hard to notice unless you're looking closely, which means people may not even be able to tell that you're wearing anything at all. You can straighten your teeth efficiently and discreetly by taking advantage of clear aligners.