Braces or Invisalign: Which One is Right for You

Braces

Traditional braces have been a go-to option for teeth straightening for decades. Why? Because they are very efficient at moving teeth. 

The good news for today’s patients is that metal braces have evolved significantly in terms of materials and design. Today, metal braces come in variety of colors and shades and are sleeker and look much nicer than ever before. While metal braces are still visible, gone are the days of being called a metal-mouth. 

 

Visible Appearance

The biggest complaint people may have with metal braces is that they are highly visible in the mouth. This is because metal brackets are bonded directly to the teeth. Wires are then connected to each bracket and secured with tiny elastics. 

“While today’s braces are much sleeker than ever before, but they are still highly visible,” says Dr. Gonzalez. “Some patients love that they can personalize the look of their braces by choosing their elastic colors. It’s a great way to show off some personality. But for others, the visibility of metal braces is a drawback.” 

Treatment Duration

The treatment length with traditional braces varies depending on the severity of your issue, as well as the age you are at treatment. Metal braces treatment length typically ranges from one to three years. Regular adjustments are needed to ensure your braces are working as they should. Adjustments occur typically every 6-8 weeks. 

Dietary Restrictions

It is important to prevent damage to the brackets and wires, so there are some dietary restrictions with metal braces. Sticky, chewy, crunchy, and hard foods should be avoided with metal braces. For some people, this is a huge drawback because they may have to avoid their favorite foods while in braces. For others, it’s worth it to have the smile of their dreams.

Effectiveness

Traditional braces are incredibly effective for correcting even the most severe malocclusion. They have been used for many years to effectively move teeth. In fact, modern braces were invented all the way back in 1819.

Cost

The cost of the traditional braces can vary depending on the severity of the misalignment, the undying malocclusion being treated, and the experience and expertise of the orthodontist providing the treatment. The cost can also vary from location to location. In Austin TX, treatment for metal braces may cost anywhere between $3,500 and $8,000.

Invisalign

Invisalign revolutionized orthodontic treatment with its clear, removable aligners. Invisalign offers a more discreet, convenient, and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. 

Today, Invisalign is not the only clear aligner option for orthodontic patients. Other clear aligner brands such as Spark have raised in popularity. Let’s see what are some of the features and characteristics of Invisalign.

Invisibility

Invisalign aligners are designed to be virtually invisible when in the mouth. The aligners are made of clear plastic and fit snugly over the teeth. Patients who are looking for a more discreet option love the barely-there look of Invisalign. 

Removability

Unlike braces, Invisalign aligners are removable. This makes caring for your teeth while in orthodontic treatment much easier. Patients can brush and floss their teeth as they normally would, without worring about brushing around brackets and wires. Because the aligners are removable, you don’t have to make any dietary adjustments, either.  

Patient Compliance

“Because the aligners are removable, they require a higher degree of patient compliance,” says Dr. Gonzalez.  “In order to keep treatment on track, patients must wear their aligners as directed by their orthodontist. This means typically wearing them for 20-22 hours a day, only removing them to brush, floss, eat and drink. It is also important to follow the proper sequence of aligner sets because each set is perfectly calibrated to achieve a desired movement. Wearing them out of sequence can alter your final result.”

Treatment Duration

Invisalign treatment time is typically comparable to that of braces. That means it can range from several months to a few years, depending on the complexity of the case. Like braces, regular check-ups are necessary to monitor progress and to receive new sets of aligners.

Comfort

Invisalign aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over the teeth and are made of a smooth, BPA-free plastic. This means little to no discomfort. Some patients may experience initial soreness or discomfort when transitioning to a new set of aligners. This is generally less pronounced than the discomfort associated with braces adjustments.

Suitability

Invisalign is an excellent option for addressing mild to moderate orthodontic issues. For some patients, it may also be ideal to correct more severe malocclusions. To determine the best treatment option for you, it is important to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. 

Cost

Invisalign cost, just like metal braces, can vary a lot depending on different factors similar to metal braces; these factors include how severe the patient’s misalignment is, what the malocclusion type is, and the location of the orthodontic practice, and the expertise of the orthodontist. In Austin, TX, the cost of Invisalign treatment can vary between $5,500 to $7,500 without insurance.