Article at a Glance
- When deciding between Invisalign and traditional braces, you should consider the frequency of follow-ups, repairs, and daily wear to determine which fits better with your lifestyle.
- Invisalign may be the faster choice for straightening teeth, but traditional braces may work better for complex cases.
- Traditional braces tend to be cheaper than Invisalign, but there’s not as much difference as you might think.
Invisalign vs. Braces has become a hot topic with people rushing to argue both sides. Before making the investment in your smile, it’s a good idea to educate yourself on the options. Lucky for you, we’ve done the research, so you can make an informed decision!
What to Expect – Invisalign vs Braces
When you’re deciding between Invisalign and braces, there are a lot of considerations, but you should start by taking a look at the commitment required for each type. You need to determine how your orthodontic treatment fits with your lifestyle.
Comfort and Aesthetics
Traditional metal braces have a much lower profile today than they did twenty years ago, but they are still visible every time you smile. They also can cut up the inside of your mouth. However, many wearers get so used to braces that they forget about them.
Invisalign is almost invisible because the trays are clear. It’s often difficult to know somebody is wearing Invisalign unless you look closely or happen to catch them inserting or removing trays. They can cause some discomfort for the first day or two of a new tray.
Orthodontic Appointments
Regular appointments are required for both types. With metal braces, follow-ups will be scheduled every two to six weeks to have your wires tightened. On the other hand, with Invisalign, you will only follow-up when you’ve finished a set of trays, usually every ten weeks.
Though you will have fewer appointments with Invisalign, you may want to factor in the length of your appointments. Follow-ups with traditional braces may be more frequent, but they are usually quicker. Appointments for Invisalign can take longer because your mouth will have to be rescanned to receive your next set of trays.
Daily Care
Your daily oral care routine will change with any orthodontic treatment, but there are some distinct differences between Invisalign and traditional metal braces. You need to be prepared for the daily commitment before choosing Invisalign.
With traditional metal braces, you wear them 24/7 and will need to learn how to brush and floss around the wires and brackets. Plus, you get to choose fun colors to show off your personality every time you smile.
Invisalign can be a little more challenging for some people. It is easier to clean your teeth because you remove the trays to eat and drink. However, you have to be careful to brush thoroughly before putting your trays back in to prevent food and debris from getting stuck. You also need to wear your trays 20 to 22 hours per day to be effective.
Repairs
Aside from regular appointments, you may need to be seen for broken wires or brackets if you wear metal braces. Invisalign requires no follow-ups for repairs because a broken tray can simply be replaced by the next one in your series.
Invisalign vs. Braces: Which is Faster?
Orthodontic treatment takes time because it is accomplished by gradually applying pressure to the teeth. When it comes to straightening teeth, Invisalign may yield faster results, but only if you are compliant with treatment. If you aren’t dedicated to wearing your trays enough during the day, you won’t see the results.
Keep in mind, traditional braces will give your orthodontist more control over how your teeth are moving. This makes them a better option for more complex cases that will take longer and require more adjustments.
The Cost of Invisalign vs. Braces
When making your decision, you’ll probably want to compare the price tag on Invisalign vs braces cost. Invisalign tends to cost more than traditional braces, but there’s not as much disparity between the two treatment options as you might think. It all depends on your treatment plan and how complex your case is.
Many orthodontists will offer special deals on orthodontics including Invisalign. Your insurance may help with the cost of braces and many offices offer financing programs to make braces affordable.
Invisalign vs. Braces: Which is Better?
At the end of the day, choosing between Invisalign and traditional braces is a very personal decision. If you can afford Invisalign and commit to the treatment plan, your orthodontic treatment could be faster and more comfortable. However, if you can’t commit or you’re worried about losing trays, you may want to go the traditional route.
If you’re ready to start orthodontic treatment, the team at Jefferson Dental & Orthodontics is ready to help. We can answer your questions and get you started with affordable braces. Contact the Jefferson Dental & Orthodontics clinic nearest you to make an appointment.
