Braces vs.
Invisalign®
Invisalign® vs Braces
Which is the Best Treatment Option?
You’ve made the (brilliant) decision to begin your journey towards a straight and healthy smile. And because you’re a savvy shopper, you’re doing your research to figure out which product is best among the numerous treatment options available.
As orthodontic specialists, one of the most common questions we receive from prospective patients like you is: which is best between Invisalign® vs braces?
Traditional braces and Invisalign® clear aligners are both effective in treating orthodontic issues for patients of all ages. They also have unique advantages. Read on to explore the key differences between braces vs Invisalign® including pros and cons, cost, treatment time, and more details that will help you make an informed decision.
Invisalign® vs Braces: Pros and Cons
When choosing between Invisalign® or braces, think about your lifestyle and consult with your orthodontist about the complexity of your treatment needs. While both are extremely effective and safe, the way they work and the experience they offer patients are very different.
Differences in Treatment
How Invisalign® Works
Invisalign® uses clear, removable aligners custom-made to fit the teeth of the individual patient. The aligners gradually shift teeth into place through gentle pressure. Patients wear a new set of aligners about every week to progress treatment.
How Braces Work
Traditional braces work by attaching metal or ceramic (clear) brackets and placing wires held by color ties to help move the teeth. Wires are tightened regularly to apply pressure and guide teeth into the correct position. Fun fact: you can pick a different color(s) every time you come in for an adjustment.
While both treatments straighten teeth, Invisalign® is preferred by some for its discreet look and the ability to remove the aligners. On the other hand, braces offer more control in complex dental cases, making them more suitable for serious realignment.
Metal Braces vs Invisalign®
Metal Braces
- Pros of Metal Braces: Metal braces are often prescribed for complex cases that involve significant tooth realignment or bite correction. They are more durable and require fewer patient compliance requirements, making them an attractive option for parents of young children.
- Cons of Metal Braces: Metal braces are very visually noticeable. This can be a concern for patients of all ages, but especially teens and adults. Brackets can also cause discomfort and make it more difficult to brush and floss. Braces come with dietary restrictions to avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can cause damage to the brackets and cause them to be unglued to from the tooth.
Invisalign®
- Pros of Invisalign®: Invisalign® clear aligners are nearly invisible and popular for patients who prioritize aesthetics. The aligners are also removable, offering more flexibility for what you can eat, and making it easier to clean your teeth. Invisalign® is more comfortable because there are no metal brackets or wires to poke and irritate the mouth.
- Cons of Invisalign®: To ensure effective treatment, Invisalign® aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours a day. This requires commitment. Young children and teens can forget to put aligners back on after meals and may lose them all together, adding cost and treatment time. Invisalign® is often not recommended for patients dealing with complex orthodontic issues.
Clear Braces vs Invisalign®
Patients attracted to both the effectiveness and durability of braces and the discreet look of Invisalign® aligners may find a perfect balance in clear braces (or ceramic braces).
Clear Braces
- Pros of Clear Braces: Clear braces work much the same as traditional metal braces but use tooth-colored or clear, ceramic brackets. This makes them much less noticeable than metal braces. Clear braces offer the same effectiveness and nearly the same durability as metal braces, making them a compelling choice for people who need more serious correction but want something more visually discreet.
- Cons of Clear Braces: While less noticeable than metal braces, clear braces are still more visible than Invisalign®. The ceramic material can also be more fragile than metal, so clear braces can be more prone to breaking, especially if not taken care of properly.
With fully transparent and removable aligners, Invisalign® is even more discreet than clear braces with added flexibility and comfort–but patient compliance is a key factor in treatment success.
Invisalign® vs Braces Cost
When it comes to cost, Invisalign® and braces have very similar pricing. The overall cost will vary based on your location, case complexity, and length of treatment.
Traditional metal braces are typically the most affordable option, costing on average between $3,000-$7,000. Ceramic braces are slightly more expensive because of materials, ranging from $4,000-$8,000.
Invisalign® treatment is usually within the same price range as ceramic braces: $4,000- $8,000. As with braces, the cost can increase for more complex cases that require additional aligners.
The finance team at Arcadia Orthodontics is competent at working with most insurance providers. We promise to work with you and your provider to ensure you get the most of your benefits and pay the least amount out of pocket possible.
Invisalign® vs Braces: Which is Faster?
The length of orthodontic treatment–no matter if you’re using Invisalign® or braces–is impacted by several factors including the patient’s age, method of treatment, severity of issues, and more.
On average, braces are usually worn for 18 months-3 years. Braces can be the faster treatment option for patients with more severe alignment issues because they have greater control over tooth movement. Regular adjustments by our expert orthodontic team will ensure the treatment stays on track.
Invisalign® is typically worn for a shorter duration due to the nature of treating less severe cases. Patients with mild and moderate cases may only wear aligners for 12-18 months. However, Invisalign® can take much longer for patients needing significant realignment, and in some cases Invisalign® is not recommended for those cases at all. Patients who fail to wear their aligners for 20-22 hours a day can extend treatment time.
Is Invisalign® Better than Braces?
Ultimately, deciding which is better between Invisalign® or braces should be based on the complexity of your case and your lifestyle preferences.
Invisalign® might be better for you if:
- You want the least disruption to your appearance possible.
- You have mild to moderate orthodontic issues.
- You are responsible and can wear the aligners as instructed for 20-22 hours each day.
- You desire more flexibility for eating.
- You like the idea of being able to remove the aligners as needed for cleaning and meals.
- You want more time between office visits (typically every 10-12 weeks)
Braces might be better for you if:
- You have complex issues and need advanced tooth alignment or bite correction.
- You aren’t as concerned about the appearance of metal or ceramic braces.
- You prefer a treatment option that requires less patient responsibility.
- You have the ability to attend regular adjustment check-ups every 6-8 weeks with your orthodontist.
Invisalign® vs Braces: Which One is Right For You?
The good news is that both treatment options are safe and reliable, and do an excellent job of achieving straighter, healthier smiles. If you’re having trouble deciding which is better between Invisalign® vs braces, our team will be glad to walk you through the details of each scenario to come up with a plan you’re comfortable with.
Schedule a consultation with our experienced team today to learn more about Invisalign® and braces and decide which is the best fit for your situation.
