If you’re considering getting braces, you may be wondering whether to choose Invisalign or traditional braces. Both have their own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to weigh your options carefully before making a decision.

Here are some things to consider when deciding between Invisalign and traditional braces.

Cost of Braces

Traditional braces tend to generally be more affordable than Invisalign, but cost should not be the only factor you consider when making your decision. So how much can you expect either option to cost?

There are several factors that go into determining the cost including the duration of treatment and the type of treatment needed.

You can expect the following approximate costs:

Traditional braces (metal braces) : $6000-$9000

Ceramic braces : $6500-$9500

Lingual braces : $9500-$15000

Clear aligners : $6500 – $9500

As you can see there are some big differences in price, so it is important to discuss options with your orthodontist before you go ahead with treatment.

Treatment Time

 

The time you have your braces on for will really vary depending on the treatment needed and the severity of your individual issue. Most patients tend to have their braces on for 18 to 24 months, however again depending on your individual issue, you may need to wear them for three to four years. If you have the ability to use Invisalign instead of traditional braces, you may find your treatment can take as little as 12 months.

Aesthetics

Because of the availability of Invisalign many older teenages and adults prefer to use this option over traditional braces. They are removable so can be taken out for special occasions and if you are in a professional role, they tend to be the better option. For younger children, and some adults, traditional braces are still the better option, however there are some good clear traditional braces that can help to keep some of the aesthetic that you may be looking for.

Comfort

 

Invisalign tends to be a more comfortable option for many people, however there can still be a level of discomfort due to the pressure of the aligners on the teeth. In general traditional braces don’t hurt when being applied but there can be some mild soreness and discomfort in the days following the placement or adjustment of braces. You may also experience some discomfort with the wires rubbing against the inside of your mouth. Patients tend to see this disappear within two to three weeks.

It is important to remember that some discomfort is normal as your mouth and teeth adjust to their new position, however if the discomfort doesn’t go away or is concerning, it is best to make another appointment with your orthodontist to make sure there is nothing else happening.

Food Restrictions

This is one area patients don’t really consider when considering their treatment options. Traditional braces can make it difficult to eat foods that are hard and sticky, so you may find yourself needing to change your diet or look at making changes to the way you prepare food.

Invisalign has a clear benefit in this area – the aligners can be removed for a few hours a day leaving you with the ability to eat any food you want.

Maintenance

Maintenance is another area where Invisalign tends to win out. Traditional braces require a lot more maintenance as it isn’t as easy to brush or floss your teeth. You will need to do so in a way that avoids damaging the braces, and you will also need to see your orthodontist on a regular basis to have adjustments done to the braces. Without these adjustments, you may find your treatment time is longer than initially required.

Invisalign on the other hand can be removed to clean and floss your teeth and they don’t require adjustments or checks to be done as regularly.

Results

 

Both Invisalign and traditional braces can give you great results, and ultimately it really comes down to which one is the best to fit your dental needs as well as your budget. To find out which product is best for your needs, book a consultation with your orthodontist. This will give you the time to ask the questions you need answered, and to go through the pros and cons for each option.

We hope this blog post helps you in making your decision between Invisalign and traditional braces! If you have any further questions, our team at Crestmead Dental would be happy to help. Give us a call today to book an appointment.