Many people take for granted the ability to flash a beautiful sparkling smile without hesitation. For some individuals, having an overbite, snaggletooth or even just a few crooked teeth can cause a self-conscious feeling. For others, misalignment can lead to serious cranial issues, discomfort and difficulties in adequately cleaning their teeth.
Thankfully, today there are orthodontic options available for improving the structure of your teeth. These options include Invisalign and traditional metal braces. Both work to straighten your teeth over time, improving oral health overall. If you are debating which of the two is best for you, our team at All Smiles Dental would love to provide you with more information about each option to help you make a confident decision.
How Each Option Works
Invisalign: Once you have a fully identified plan in place for your personal alignment, you will receive a clear plastic aligner made just for you. You can expect to make a few follow-up visits to check the process.
Traditional braces: These are attached to your teeth by an orthodontic specialist. The braces are made of metal or ceramic brackets held in place with wires. Once in place, you will make scheduled visits for adjustments. The plan of action is a trial-and-error approach, depending on how your teeth respond to the alignment adjustments.
Advantages
Invisalign: Just like the trademarked name states, these clear aligners look invisible to the eye, which means you won’t need to worry about how you look while wearing them. Additionally, you can remove them as you wish without professional assistance. This is ideal when eating, brushing your teeth, cleaning the aligners or during any other activity you deem necessary. Invisalign is also non-invasive, virtually painless and totally comfortable!
Traditional braces: This option tends to be more affordable and work more efficiently. Traditional braces are recognized for closing gaps more quickly than Invisalign, making them the ideal option for people who want to align their teeth fast.
Disadvantages
Invisalign: These clear aligners can be pricier than traditional braces and can take a bit longer to complete the straightening process. They also may not be the best option for severe, complex issues.
Traditional braces: The metal structure that makes up traditional braces is not usually very attractive. Adults, teens and children alike can feel embarrassed to wear them. They also have the potential of being uncomfortable or even painful throughout the straightening process. Food tends to get stuck in the wiring, which can easily go unnoticed by the wearer. Finally, if any issues should arise, the patient must go to a dentist’s office to seek treatment.
Cost Comparison
Invisalign: You can expect to spend at least $5,000. Although Invisalign is the more expensive option, it requires less frequent in-office care. When you consider your copay costs and visit expenses, as well as the additional benefits Invisalign offers, the cost is certainly worth it.
Traditional braces: The cost for braces can start at around $3,000 – making them only slightly more affordable than Invisalign. Because these braces must be adjusted overtime, you do have to visit the dentist office more frequently, which can add to your overall cost.
Let All Smiles Dental Help You Decide!
If you are still unsure which route to take, our team would be more than happy to discuss how each approach will affect you personally. Contact us for more information or schedule a consultation appointment so we can provide you with personalized assistance.
By submitting this form you agree to be contacted via phone/text/email.
