Invisalign vs Braces: Which Treatment Is Right for You?

January 8, 2022March 2, 2023 Sono

Do you believe that crooked teeth can sabotage ambitions? Well, you are not alone. 1 out of every 3 Americans is unhappy with their misaligned smiles.

When you want straighter teeth, how do you choose the method that’s right for you?

Keep reading to learn more.

Table of Contents

The General Idea

Many choose Invisalign because of its quick turnaround. Others choose braces because of their universal price point and overall predictability.

Firstly, it’s important to note that Invisalign and braces differ in treatment lengths. Still, each method is dependent on each case.

What Are Invisible Aligners?

Invisible Aligners are translucent, removable retainers that shift teeth when worn consistently. The retainer, or “trays” are created by your Invisalign provider and are made with a light, clear material that makes it hard to detect any form of teeth correction.

The Pros and Cons of Invisalign vs Braces

Just like braces, invisible aligners are going to have their own set of cons that differ from person to person. Here are a few worth noting.

Users Must Be Disciplined

Compared to braces, wearers of Invisalign will have to get additional corrections later on if they do not take care of their aligners. This is due to many variables that, if neglected, can negatively affect the outcome of their teeth correction.

Patients of Invisalign should wear their monthly trays consistently (realistically for 10-12 hours). They should also wash their trays often; avoid putting them down in anything that’s not their designated case.

A good example of mistreatment of trays would be accidentally throwing them away after taking them off to eat (usually because they are placed in a napkin). This leads to additional teeth misalignment because the patient then has to wait for a new set of trays!

On to the Positives

Are you concerned about these cons? Do not fret! There are many pros to invisible aligners too. Here are among the most popular points of recognition.

Comfortable Fit

Many patients praise invisible aligners for being more comfortable than braces. This is due to the material of the trays, compared to the metal brackets associated with braces.

Orthodontists also praise invisible aligners for being cleanlier than braces. This is because you can remove the trays and clean your teeth without the hassle of rubber bands or pieces of metal getting in your way.

Scanning for Invisalign

You can even avoid the traditional, previously dreaded, goo-filled impressions associated with getting Invisalign nowadays. Dentists use scanning technology to complete full 3D scans of your teeth that help with the shape and mold of your aligners.

May Promote Confidence

Perhaps the biggest reason behind opting for Invisalign vs braces are the clear trays. The idea of said design is to eliminate the look of braces for a more translucent, “invisible” effect, so you can smile confidently and clearly.

Another benefit of Invisalign is that they are made from a form of clear resin that seamlessly fits your teeth. This means that they are expected to fit so naturally and smoothly, that others wonâ€™t be able to notice the straightening effects or shifts to your teeth.

A Time Saver

The alignment process for Invisalign is relatively shorter than if you were to wear braces, though it can differ. For example, if you have an overbite, this might lengthen the alignment process.

Wearing invisible aligners usually means fewer consultations with your dentist or orthodontist, usually once every six weeks. Braces, on the other hand, could require two to three visits a month.

For braces, most patients wear their set for 1-3 years. However, a pair of Invisalign users may finish their treatment in up to 6 months.

Itâ€™s a Smaller Bill

The average cost of Invisalign always differs from that of braces. Invisalign aligners can vary between three, to ten thousand dollars,

A reason behind Invisalignâ€™sÂ higher costÂ compared to braces is the laboratory fees given to each orthodontic practice. Invisalign charges dental practices roughly anywhere from $1,500 to $2,000 for each tray set made.

The Pros and Cons of Braces

Traditional braces host a fair share of cons as well as pros. Here are among the few worth mentioning.

They Are More Reliant

Studies show that braces, on average, are 100% effective if cared for properly. This affects the decision for many, who ultimately rely on the security and predictability of traditional braces versus the dedication needed to handle and keep track of invisible aligners.

The Methods of Scanning for Braces

Traditional braces usually require x-rays before the procedure can move forward. Braces are then scanned by using plastic attachments to spread apart your cheeks, which may be uncomfortable for some.

It’s a Right of Passage

Many individuals opt for braces instead of invisible aligners because of their significance in young adulthood. After all, who wouldn’t want to color coordinate their rubber band color to the next, upcoming holiday?

Different Kinds of Braces

Unlike braces of the past, there are several types of braces one may choose from. From ceramic to lingual braces, or “clear braces,” (though not as clear as Invisalign) patients can feel relieved to know they have a say in their method of teeth alignment.

Diet and Food

It is common knowledge that patients wearing braces must be especially careful what they can and can’t eat. Hard and sticky foods are cautioned, and consumption of such may lead to bracket breakage or misalignment of teeth.

A Not So Time Saver

Traditional braces typically need 2-3 visits monthly to make sure they are being adjusted correctly. Visits may or may not also include removing and replacing brackets, changing wire sizes, tightening brackets, and so on.