Invisalign vs. Braces cost, which one is more affordable? a full Guide
Both these procedures are ultimately the same price. Traditional braces typically cost around $1,500 – $5,000. Clear aligners will set you back $3,500 – $5,500.
The prices vary due to factors like your teeth’ condition and geographical location. However, braces might be more obtainable as most dental insurers cover most costs.
When deciding which option is better for you, cost should only be one factor as there are many elements you should consider.
This article will discuss these two procedures’ differences and pros and cons.
Invisalign
Invisalign is appealing because it’s invisible. This treatment involves using custom-made, clear trays to fit snugly over your teeth, slowly shifting them into your desired position. That is a fantastic option for adults who don’t want a mouth full of metal.
These clear aligners treat:
- Overcrowding
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Open bites
- Misaligned baby teeth
- Gaps
The procedure is very effective and leaves you with a straight, gorgeous smile, and it usually takes 12 to 18 months for your desired results. Another plus is that the trays are removable, making it easy to clean the aligners and your teeth.
Invisalign is not for everyone, though, and if you have severe misalignment issues, your dentist will probably recommend braces.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Invisalign
Although these clear aligners are effective, there are pros and cons you need to be aware of:
Advantages
- Comfortable
The trays are custom-made to fit perfectly, making them more comfortable than braces.
- Aesthetically pleasing
The most significant selling point is that these aligners go unnoticed as they are translucent. As a result, most teens and adults like to wear them to avoid self-consciousness.
- They are removable
Unlike braces, you can remove the clear trays when eating or drinking. However, they must be worn for 22 hours a day; if not, you won’t achieve the desired results.
- More hygienic
Another benefit to removable aligners is that you can take them out to clean your teeth and trays, lessening the risk of tooth decay.
- Follow-up appointments are minimal.
Most of the work for Invisalign takes place before making the trays and placing them. After placement, you must visit your orthodontist once every six weeks to examine them and intercept any issues.
Disadvantages
- Self-discipline
Removing these trays is a pro and a con because you need to remember to put them back in. In addition, there is a strict time frame you need to wear your trays for every day to achieve results, and if you do not stick to it, you won’t reach your desired goal.
- Inconvenient
You must remove your trays when eating and drinking anything other than water, which is frustrating and embarrassing.
- The Price
Invisalign is expensive, and most dental insurers do not cover the costs.
Traditional Braces
Braces consist of brackets linked by wires and rubber bands that slowly shift your teeth into your desired position. You will need to have the wires tightened by an orthodontist every month.
There are different options for braces which include:
- Traditional braces – are the standard metal braces.
- Ceramic braces – consist of tooth-colored or clear brackets and rubber bands, making them less noticeable.
- Lingual braces – Are placed behind the teeth, hiding them from sight.
Read more: Smile Direct Vs. Invisalign 2021 Complete Comparison
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Braces
Below is a list of the pros and cons of braces:
Advantages
- Duration of treatment
Correcting minor imperfections can make the treatment time quicker than Invisalign.
- Various options
There are multiple options; you don’t have to pick traditional braces.
- Versatile
Braces can be used for multiple dental conditions and are usually very effective.
- Effective
Braces are known to achieve better results than Invisalign.
Disadvantages
- Their appearance
The appearance of braces puts many people off
- Frequent follow-up appointments
You must see your specialist at least once a month for adjustments and check on your progress.
- High maintenance
Maintaining good oral hygiene is tough with braces, as food particles get stuck in your brackets and wires. You have to follow your dentist’s instructions on cleaning your braces if you don’t want problems with tooth decay further down the line.
- Food limitations
Certain foods and drinks are off-limits when you have braces, as they can break or dislodge the archwire. Hard and chewy foods like candy, bubblegum, popcorn, and raw carrots are off-limits.
More Affordable Alternatives to Braces and Invisalign
If your dental conditions are minor, there are two types of clear aligners you can choose from that are more affordable:
Clear Correct works precisely the same as Invisalign, providing clear trays that will need replacing every three weeks. The full treatment can take anywhere from 12 – 24 months, depending on the severity of your teeth.
They are more affordable than Invisalign, and costs start at $2,500.
At-home aligners like Smile Direct also provide clear trays that slowly shift your teeth. However, most consultations are done virtually in the comfort of your home. As a result, the process is quicker than Invisalign and more cost-effective.
What’s great about these aligners is that you can pay the total amount of $1,950, or they give you the option of paying the treatment off in small installments each month, which amounts to $88 per month.
There are many ways to change your smile; you must find the perfect option. Most dentists offer all these brands; if they don’t, you can request a referral.
Don’t be stuck with a smile you don’t want. You have multiple choices at your fingertips.
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