Much can be said about Invisalign and braces. Braces are usually made from dental-safe metal and are attached to every tooth before being connected with a wire. On the other hand, Invisalign are aligners made of clear plastic. These aligners are removable and worn by the user 24 hours a day. Given these differences, it is hard to pick which treatment is better.
That said, it is better to know more about their comparisons so that you may come up with a wise decision as to which one of them works best for you and your teeth.
1. Cost
Invisalign and braces both go through the same process, but the latter is more expensive than the former. A set of Invisalign aligners costs around three to five thousand dollars, and an appointment with your dentist will cost around $200. Braces can cost up to seven thousand dollars since a wire and metal brackets are used to hold them in place. These things mean that your dentist will charge an additional fee for the labor that goes into making the brackets, wires, and other materials used.
2. Duration of Treatment
Invisalign is more effective in terms of speed of treatment when compared to braces. Because it is more comfortable and less conspicuous, patients are more likely to wear the aligners consistently and are more likely to complete the Invisalign treatment regimen. Although braces are not as comfortable, they are more effective in correcting deeper and more complex dental problems.
3. Effectiveness
Both braces and Invisalign are equally effective in correcting teeth misalignment. As mentioned earlier, the Invisalign treatment can be completed in as fast as 1-2 years, compared to the 2-3 years needed with braces. The latter is prone to breakage, particularly when you lose your aligners or not wearing them.
The time needed for the treatment is also the reason why Invisalign is more affordable than braces.
4. Comfort
Invisalign is more comfortable than the traditional metal braces. In fact, one of the main reasons why it is preferred over the latter is the absence of metal. The main component of Invisalign is a tray made of clear plastic. The tray is worn on the teeth and removed after a certain period. It then is replaced with a new tray. This process is repeated until all the aligners are exchanged for your perfect smile.
Although some patients are still uncomfortable with the aligners, especially when eating, it is safer for the teeth than braces.
5. Follow-Up Treatments
Properly wearing your Invisalign aligners requires a visit to the dentist every three months or so. This is to ensure that your teeth are correct and that there is no breakage or other damage. Invisalign effectively ensures that your teeth can be corrected quickly and conveniently. At the same time, you can protect the teeth from damage.
On the other hand, braces require a visit to the dentist every 6-8 weeks. Sometimes, a tooth may be removed if it is not able to be saved. But most of the time, the dentist will remove plaque, tartar, and other deposits that can cause tooth decay.
Conclusion
In the end, it is up to you to pick between Invisalign and braces. By now, you should have a better idea about the differences between the two treatments. It is important for you to know that the decision should be made carefully and only after consulting with your dentist.
The latter can help you understand your dental situation and recommend the right treatment for you.
If you are looking for experienced orthodontists who specialize in Invisalign application in Manassas, VA, look no further than our expertise here at Solarte Orthodontics. We offer a wide range of dental services that are sure to bring out your pearly whites. Call us today and let us tend to your misaligned teeth in no time!
