Invisalign vs. Braces
Misaligned teeth can cause numerous dental problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw pain. In some cases, teeth misalignment can also lead to speech impediments. While there are many orthodontic options on the market today, the top two most common are Invisalign aligners and a traditional braces treatment.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, around 3 million people in the United States will need orthodontic treatment this year.
If you are considering Invisalign or braces, you need to understand the critical differences between the two types of treatment. At Platinum Dental Group, we are proud to offer our patients both Invisalign aligners and braces. We strive to ensure our patients are well educated on their orthodontic options to make the best decision for their smile.
What are traditional braces?
Braces are the more traditional orthodontic option that uses metal wires and brackets to straighten teeth. In some cases, brackets can be made from ceramic or clear plastic to blend in with your teeth.
Braces have been around for many years, and the technology and materials used for straightening teeth have come a long way. Today’s braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more effective than ever before.
Types of Braces
There are many different types of braces available on the market today. The type of braces you receive will be based on your specific needs and goals.
- Traditional Metal Braces: This is the most common type of braces. Metal braces are made from high-grade stainless steel and are the most affordable type of braces. These use metal brackets glued to your teeth and connected with a wire.
- Ceramic Braces: This is another popular option that uses clear or tooth-colored brackets to blend in with your teeth. The wire used is also usually clear or tooth-colored.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an excellent option for patients looking for a more discreet and convenient way to straighten their teeth. Unlike braces, the system uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners that gradually move your teeth into the desired position. These aligners are given in sets every few weeks, requiring fewer orthodontist visits.
Wearing Invisalign compared to wearing braces is a more comfortable experience because the aligners are made of a smooth, comfortable BPA-free plastic material that is virtually invisible when worn.
Invisalign trays are also removable, which means you can take them out to eat, brush, and floss your teeth. An Invisalign treatment is also an excellent option for patients who play sports or participate in other activities where traditional braces could be damaged or lost. This makes Invisalign clear aligners a more convenient option for patients who don’t want to deal with the hassle of conventional braces.
Types of Invisalign Treatments
Invisalign offers various treatments depending on your specific needs and goals, including Invisalign Express, Invisalign First and Teen, Invisalign Full, and Invisalign Lite.
- Invisalign Express: This treatment is an excellent option for patients who only need minor corrections to their teeth. It takes an average of 3-6 months to complete.
- Invisalign First and Invisalign Teen: Invisalign First is designed to work for patients with primary (baby) teeth and permanent teeth. Invisalign Teen has additional features like the blue dot indicator to notify you when aligners need to be changed.
- Invisalign Full: This treatment is the most popular option and is best for patients who have more significant dental problems like spacing issues, crowding, overbites, and underbites. Invisalign Full treatment can take between 12 and 18 months to complete.
- Invisalign Lite: This is a more affordable option and is best for patients who only need minor corrections like closing small gaps between teeth. Invisalign Lite treatment can take an average of 6 months to complete.
Cost of Orthodontic Treatment
The cost of Invisalign and braces will vary depending on the severity of your dental problems, the type of treatment you choose, and the coverage options available in your dental insurance plan.
In general, Invisalign is more expensive than braces. Average Invisalign costs are between $3,000 and $5,000. The average price of braces is between $2,500 and $6,000. This is because Invisalign treatment is often considered to be a cosmetic procedure, while braces are considered to be a medical necessity and the materials used to make each treatment.
Contact Us at Platinum Dental Group
However, Invisalign offers several payment plans and financing options to make treatment more affordable. At Platinum Dental Group, we work with patients to find the treatment plan that benefits their individual needs and payment options that fit their budget. If you’re considering Invisalign or braces, we invite you to schedule a consultation at a Platinum Dental Group location.