Invisalign Vs Metal Braces: How To Know What Is Best For You?

Do you want a straight smile? Are you looking for the best orthodontic treatment? We’re here to help you out. To get beautifully aligned teeth, you have different options to choose from. However, two of the most popular orthodontic treatments are Invisalign and metal braces. If you are wondering, if Invisalign is better than metal braces or vice versa, read the blog to know more.

Price

One of the major factors when it comes to choosing the best orthodontic treatment is the price. The cost of your orthodontic treatment depends on your orthodontic issue. Usually, metal braces, are a more affordable option and usually cost between $2,500 and $8,000.

Invisalign costs depend on how many trays are required, which depends on the severity of the changes needed to bring your teeth into the correct alignment. Invisalign may cost anywhere between about $3,000 and $8,000.

You can always talk to an orthodontist who will work with you and provide budget-friendly options. Make sure to select a dentist who will accept most dental insurance. You can always contact your insurance provider to check your coverage and determine the total estimate of the total cost of your orthodontic treatment.

Appearance

One of the major differences between Invisalign and metal braces is the appearance. If you are looking for a discreet option, you can opt for Invisalign as they are virtually undetectable, whereas metal braces are much more noticeable. However, if appearance doesn’t matter, metal braces are a good option. You can even customize the color of your braces to match your style.

Comfort

Straightening your teeth is not the most pleasant experience, as the orthodontic appliance will apply pressure to your teeth to move them into the correct alignment. This process can be painful with any orthodontic treatment.

However, Invisalign is more comfortable compared to traditional braces as it doesn’t require bands, wires, etc., that put extreme on your teeth. Braces can break, or the wires may poke you causing sores or cuts in your mouth. If you have an active lifestyle or if your child plays sports, and if you have metal braces, you are at a higher risk of orthodontic emergencies. However, once you get used to your clear aligners or braces, you will find them comfortable.

Effectiveness

Traditional metal braces are an effective way to straighten your teeth and have been used for decades to achieve a straight smile. As braces cannot be removed once placed by the dentist, you will have to wear them 24/7 every day till the end of your treatment.

With Invisalign, you receive Removable trays, which means you have the comfort of brushing easily and eating whatever you like. However, you need to wear the trays for 22 hours every day to avoid lengthening the duration of the treatment. Moreover, you should store the trays in case whenever you aren’t using them to avoid misplacing them.

However, as you receive new trays every two weeks, the duration of the treatment is much shorter compared to the usual metal braces. Traditional braces are also more effective when it comes to treating severely misaligned, crooked, rotated, or overlapping teeth. There are different reasons to use Invisalign, however, the best way to determine if you are the right candidate for Invisalign or braces, consider visiting the best dentist in Reno, NV. 

Convenience

Invisalign is usually seen as a much more convenient option. With Invisalign, you can remove your aligners which means you can eat and drink freely or brush and floss easily.

However, since braces are permanently fixed to your teeth, you don’t have to worry about losing your orthodontic appliance. But you cannot eat everything you please, you will also have difficulty cleaning your teeth and may require extra tools to remove food particles stuck in your braces.

Care & Cleaning

Maintaining optimal oral hygiene is essential, especially while undergoing orthodontic treatment. If you have tooth decay or develop gum disease during your treatment, it may increase the duration of the treatment. Brushing and flossing with Invisalign is very easy, and you can ensure optimal oral health. Along with this, you should also soak your aligners and clean your Invisalign aligners. With braces, you require extra tools to remove food particles stuck in the brackets, wires, etc.

Follow-Up & Post-Treatment

Regular orthodontic treatment requires appointments to ensure you are on the right track to oral health. With traditional metal braces, you may require an appointment every month. You might also require additional appointments, if you have loose brackets, wires, or bands or if you have poking wires, etc. With Invisalign, you will require to visit the dentist to get your new trays once every two weeks. After your orthodontic treatment, you will require a retainer to ensure your teeth will maintain their new position and don’t revert to their original position.

Invisalign vs Braces: The Verdict

If you are confused and are still debating between Invisalign vs braces, it all comes down to personal preference. Also, you need to consult a good dentist who will examine your teeth and recommend the best orthodontic treatment based to treat your orthodontic issue.