When considering invisalign vs braces cost, there are several factors to take into account. It used to be that Invisalign was the premium alternative to traditional braces but technology advancements mean the two options are now much more similar.

The biggest difference is that braces are visible on the teeth and can be embarrassing for adult patients. Plus, patients are required to visit their orthodontist regularly for tightening and adjustments.

Cost

The cost of Invisalign varies depending on each patient’s treatment needs. This may be due to the severity of their teeth alignment issues or the type of Invisalign aligner they need to wear. Private dental insurance or health savings plans may cover part of the costs of Invisalign.

On the other hand, braces can be quite expensive — they typically cost between $4,500 and $8,000. However, they are usually cheaper than Invisalign and can be less costly if you opt for ceramic or lingual braces.

Lingual braces are mounted on the backside of your teeth (hence the name, and also known as “inside braces”). They’re an excellent option for patients who want discreet and fast treatment. However, they can be difficult to maintain because they are hard to clean properly. They are prone to staining if you don’t brush and floss often enough. Also, they can take a little longer to straighten your teeth than traditional braces.

Treatment Time

Unlike metal braces, Invisalign aligners are completely clear, so they don’t add any visual impact to your smile. However, that also means they can be more difficult to keep clean — especially if you’re not disciplined about removing them before eating or brushing your teeth.

Depending on how severe your misalignment is, you may have to visit the dentist more frequently with Invisalign. This is especially true if you damage the clear aligners or forget to wear them for the recommended 22 hours per day.

With traditional braces, you’ll need to visit the orthodontist around once per month for adjustments and to ensure there aren’t any issues with the wires or brackets. The more consistent you are in following the doctor’s instructions, the more quickly your treatment will be finished.

Comfort

In both cases, braces or clear aligners exert gentle pressure to move teeth into the desired position. This may cause some sensitivity, discomfort or throbbing for a few days. But the pain is usually mild and will not interfere with a patient’s daily activities. Patients who prefer a more discreet option can choose lingual or ceramic braces, which are fixed to the inside of the mouth and are less visible.

The convenience factor is a big one for many teens, who are often more willing to accept the added responsibility of managing Invisalign trays than their parents might expect. They must remember to take their trays out before eating and put them back in immediately after, as Invisalign is designed to be worn 22 hours a day for optimal results. If a teen loses a tray, it must be replaced with the next in the series and that can prolong treatment time. It’s also not uncommon for a teen to forget to brush and floss with their removable Invisalign trays, which can lead to plaque buildup and dental decay.

Embarrassment

Invisalign is a more discreet option than traditional braces. The clear plastic aligners are virtually invisible to those around you, which makes them an excellent choice for adults and teens in the Longmeadow area who are looking to straighten their teeth without reliving any awkward teen years with metal braces.

Braces are not nearly as discreet and can be very noticeable, especially during the early stages of treatment when the wires and elastic bands are visible. They can also be embarrassing for teens, who may feel self-conscious about having a mouth full of metal while they go to school or hang out with friends.

Plus, many teens find they have to change their diet while wearing braces because of food restrictions like avoiding crunchy or chewy foods that can get stuck in the brackets and wires. Thankfully, with Invisalign, there are no food restrictions since the aligners can easily be taken out when it is time to eat.