Invisalign Vs Braces Differences: Pros, Cons, Treatment, and Cost

What are Braces?

They are oral devices featuring metal wires and brackets attached to teeth to move, rotate and straighten them. Traditional braces are the most common appliances that orthodontists use as tools for straightening teeth and aligning jaws.

What is Invisalign?

It is an aesthetically pleasing teeth aligner for straightening teeth. Invisalign is typically an aesthetic alternative to metal braces. They feature clear plastic-like trays that apply controlled pressure on teeth.

Comparing Invisalign to Traditional Metal Braces

Generally, both traditional metal braces and clear aligners work by applying pressure on teeth to move them. The pressure must be consistent over a prolonged period to yield the expected results. You must adjust the position of the oral devices to guide the direction of teeth movement throughout the treatment. Needless to say, the entire process takes time, typically between 6 and 24 months. However, it will be worthwhile since the orthodontic process boosts your overall oral functionality while improving your appearance.

The Difference in Treatment Protocol

The procedure for getting Invisalign near you differs from traditional metal braces. The initial step in both procedures dictates a comprehensive dental exam. The exam allows our Invisalign dentist in Huntington to identify the underlying orthodontic problems, determine their complexity, and then develop a treatment plan for you. However, after that, the treatments look different.

For traditional metal braces, the dentist will place the brackets on each tooth, linking it to a metal wire. After every 4-6 weeks, you visit your dentist for an adjustment appointment. The dentist will use elastic bands and tighten the wires to direct the movement of teeth.

Invisalign aligners are a bit different. Our dentist in Huntington will first take impressions of your teeth to create a 3D mold that guides the creation of your invisible aligners. The tray of aligners will be fashioned for a snug fit, applying controlled pressure on your teeth. The first time you wear the clear aligners, they will fit tightly, causing some tension in your mouth. It should take about 6 weeks before you need a new tray to continue your treatment. You may wear between 30 and 32 clear aligners throughout the orthodontic process.

a) Traditional Braces

Pros:

1. They are ideal for correcting complex orthodontic problems.
2. Anyone can get braces if they want to fix their teeth’ alignment.
3. They are readily available in different parts of the world since they are the most common appliances in orthodontics.

Cons:

1. They are very conspicuous due to the metallic wires and brackets
2. Traditional braces can be uncomfortable, especially when the metal brackets and wires rub on your gums, inner cheeks, and lips
3. They require special teeth cleaning to maintain excellent oral hygiene

b) Invisalign

Pros:

1. They are virtually invisible, making them inconspicuous when you smile.
2. They are removable, offering incredible flexibility for patients.
3. You can eat whatever you want as long as you remove your teeth aligners
4. They help encourage and preserve oral hygiene since you can remove the aligners to clean your teeth and the Invisalign.
5. They are comfortable to wear – the plastic-like material glides smoothly on your mouth.

Cons:

1. They are not the ideal aligners for correcting complex orthodontic problems.
2. Invisalign can catch stains if you do not keep your mouth clean.
3. They have a restriction that dictates wearing them for between 20 and 22 hours daily for optimal results.

Cost of Getting Traditional Braces Vs. Invisalign

Generally, traditional metal braces are slightly more affordable than Invisalign aligners. However, the prices differ based on the severity of the orthodontic problem. Therefore, sometimes the cost of Invisalign can be cheaper than traditional metal braces. Braces can range between $1,800 and $5,500, while Invisalign range between $3,000 to $5,000. Still, only an orthodontist can conclusively determine the treatment cost. It is only after evaluating different factors, like the complexity of your malocclusion.

Conclusion

Ultimately, there is nothing wrong with Invisalign and metal braces. Both oral appliances are effective for moving your teeth to improve your mouth’s functionality and boost your smile’s appearance. Still, Invisalign is proving to be the better choice of teeth aligner for adults in modern dentistry. You get to attain straight teeth without compromising your aesthetics during treatment.

Visit a Dentist Near You

If you are searching for getting Invisalign in Huntington, NY, give us a call or schedule a consultation with us at Smile Huntington today!