Trying to decide if braces are worth the price?
Research has found that people with straight teeth are 45% more likely than their crooked teeth counterparts to get a job. Not only are they more successful in careers, but they’re perceived to be more attractive and wealthy.
Struggling with teeth alignment issues? If you want to straighten your smile but don’t know which option to choose, we’ve got the guide for you.
Will you pick traditional braces or Invisalign to get the smile you’ve always wanted? Read on to figure out which choice is best for you!
Table of Contents
How It Works
You can get both traditional braces and Invisalign treatments in a dental office. The process is a bit different for each, but their goal is the same: to align teeth.
Traditional Braces
Traditional braces have metal brackets that cement to the teeth. A wire runs through each bracket to connect them and is tightened by a dentist to methodically position the teeth. They don’t come off unless they are removed by a dentist.
Traditional braces fix all levels of malocclusion, or misaligned teeth.
Invisalign
Invisalign treatment is a popular alternative to traditional braces. It works through a series of aligners that move your teeth slow and steady.
People love Invisalign because of it’s clear appearance. It doesn’t have the signature metal brackets that braces do. You still have to wear them 22 hours a day, but the clear nature makes it a more aesthetically appealing option.
If you have severe dental issues, Invisalign might not be for you. Check out the Invisalign criteria to see if you would qualify.
Price
The cost of traditional braces averages between $2,000 and $7,000 dollars, depending on severity.
Invisalign’s slightly more expensive. The price for treatments ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, the cost will depend on the severity of the dental issue. The average cost of Invisalign is $5,000.
For those with mild malocclusion or misaligned teeth, Invisalign Express is available. The express version is cheaper as you don’t need as many aligners and shouldn’t cost more than $5,000.
Looking for the perfect braces for your teen? There’s a program made for them. Invisalign Teen rings in around $6,500, but it includes free replacements.
Material
Those getting braces may make their decision solely on the materials used.
Invisalign is made up of clear and flexible plastic. Traditional braces have metal, ceramic, plastic, and rubber band parts.
Treatment Plan
Both Invisalign and traditional require a continuation of dental care. You’ll need to follow up every four to six weeks.
You should expect to wear Invisalign for 12 to 18 months and traditional braces for two years. During this time, you’ll need to keep the traditional braces or Invisalign clean. Continue your dental hygiene routine and rinse the aligners after every meal.
Invisalign wearers use a night tray after the treatment is complete. Those with traditional braces wear a nighttime retainer.
Smile Confidently
What it comes down to is personal preference, whatever the reason. Some people want to be able to remove their braces for photo ops or momentous occasions. Others don’t mind the cheaper traditional braces.
Equipped with a brand new straight smile, you can take on the world! While you’re at it, check out the rest of our blog.