Braces and Invisalign are both devices designed to correct the alignment of teeth. Both correct malocclusions such as underbites, overbites, cross bites, and open bites, or just crooked teeth. Whether cosmetic or structural, braces will take care of it, and most likely Invisalign. So what is the difference between the traditional braces treatment and Invisalign?
Invisalign uses a series of clear custom-fabricated aligners made to sequentially move teeth to your desired position. Braces do this as well, however you keep the same brackets on through the entire treatment plan and as everyone knows they are not invisible. However, depending on the individual, Invisalign trays can be changed and ordered multiple times and patients have to change their aligners out every 6-8 weeks.
The Invisalign Method has become popular among adults because of the gradual change and the transparency of the aligners. Though some forums disagree Invisalign is also advertised as being more comfortable than braces, without the encumbrance of metal brackets. The removability of Invisalign's aligners is a pro and a con. Being able to remove them to eat and drink etc is assuring, however this means that Invisalign is not constantly straightening your teeth like traditional braces does. So Invisalign is largely influenced by the patient's habits.
There are also complications with Braces. Most of them come with the post-treatment of braces. One issue that many patients have faced is that plaque forms easily when food is retained in and around the braces. This can cause cavities and other gum issues. It is important for the patient to brush on a regular basis to avoid discoloration and plaque build-up.
So there are pros and cons to both traditional braces and Invisalign, but what about cost? The Full Invisalign treatment usually costs more or the same as traditional braces. It depends on how many "trays"(what the aligners are in, each tray is diagnosed specifically for your teeth and diagnosed in the treatment) you receive, which will determine the price of your treatment. The average cost of traditional braces is around $5000. Most dental insurances will cover much of the cost of traditional braces. The full Invisalign treatment ranges from $3,500 - $8,000. However if the malocclusion is minor, Invisalign Express is a good alternative choice for many adults averaging about $1,500 $4,000. So price varies when it comes the severity of the mouth and insurance issues on whether or not traditional braces or Invisalign is right for you.
Lastly the treatment time is important for a persons smile to be perfected. Traditional braces can fluctuate from anywhere between 6 months to 6 years depending on the severity of the case. This is not including the post-treatment retainer most patients will be required to wear following braces. The initial stage of the Invisalign treatment is the most extensive. The orthodontist takes impressions, x-rays, and photos of your teeth and sends them all to Align Technology. Once the computer software has simulated the movement of your teeth and the aligners are ready to go the patient is ready. The average treatment time is less than a year. However, much like traditional braces it depends on the complexity of the patient's malocclusion or problem. A retainer is most likely required after Invisalign as well. It is made of a similar plastic material that is mostly transparent.
Finding an experienced Orthodontist or Cosmetic Dentist is extremely important to the process of straightening teeth. Most dentists and orthodontists are certified to provide Invisalign treatment and offer traditional braces, but an experienced doctor can solve a wide variety of problems with Invisalign and shorten the time of traditional braces with strategic placement. Either Invisalign or Braces is a good choice for getting a straighter more beautiful smile.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
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