Invisalign vs. Braces: Which is Better For You?

Individuals realize the value of oral care. Remember that effective oral care will lead to a higher quality of life in general. It is no surprise that those with better health in Tarpon Springs, FL, will also think about other types of care for their teeth. For instance, structural adjustments via clear aligners or metal braces in Tarpon Springs, FL, can help out in more ways than one. It can add value to the structure of your teeth and ensure that you do not have further problems resulting from misaligned teeth. The right type of oral health will minimize tooth decay in your front teeth and your back teeth. It will account for your gum tissue and your lower teeth as well.

But of course, selecting the proper orthodontic treatment requires consideration of costs and the benefits that the prices represent. The weight that benefits hold over cost explains why many people choose Invisalign over traditional metal braces. Quality over quantity appears to be at the forefront of this matter, and in this article, we explain what this looks like from a financial perspective. We will also discuss additional considerations such as length treatment and aesthetic appearance, both of which may influence your decision on what approach to take.

What is Invisalign?

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Using 3D technology, Invisalign repositions teeth using a gentle method of alignment. Patients wear the removable trays for just under 24 hours and replace their trays after two weeks until the course of treatment is over. There are many benefits to choosing Invisalign. These benefits can explain the added costs that are not included in regular braces. Here are some of the benefits you can achieve with Invisalign.

  • You can remove your trays for eating, brushing your teeth, and doing other hygiene tasks like flossing or using mouthwash. 
  • Invisalign is more natural-looking than traditional metal alternatives.
  • Appointments for Invisalign are spread out, often for six weeks at a time, reducing the fees associated with visiting your orthodontist. 
  • Food getting caught in wires, braces, and brackets is much less of a concern with aligners. 
  • 3D technology and Smart Track are used for comfortable wear and alignment impact. 
  • You will avoid the irritations, cuts, and sores typically associated with the wires of metal braces.

Invisalign vs. Traditional Metal Braces

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On a strictly financial level, metal braces are a bit more affordable than Invisalign. Although an increasing number of insurance companies are covering Invisalign costs, you will still gain more coverage for traditional metal braces.

Dentists and orthodontists can give you estimates to consider which approach you want to take and what your dental insurance is likely to cover.

If you don’t want metal braces, you can see if funds from your account through FSA or HAS will cover any costs. You can also cover expenses that are not paid for by insurance by financing at zero percent.

 

You Get What You Pay For 

If you’re comparing the value of traditional braces to Invisalign, you might end up feeling that you get what you pay for. For example, the added costs associated with Invisalign are also due to advanced 3D technology. This technology places Invisalign at an advantage over traditional braces, explaining the increase in expenses.

Invisalign treatment typically takes about twelve months total. Traditional metal braces require anywhere from eighteen to twenty-four months before treatment is complete. Given the benefit of shortened wear time, you could also argue that the costs of Invisalign are well worth it.

Is Invisalign Cheaper than Braces?

As you can see, the costs of Invisalign reflect the convenience of wear, aesthetic appearance, and length of treatment. Prices are cheaper for metal braces because they are cheaper to make, do not require advanced technology, and are more likely to be covered (at least to some extent) by insurance.  You may feel that the benefits of Invisalign pay for themselves, or you may think that saving extra money is worth the extended time and effort that goes into traditional braces. The choice is up to you, but financially speaking, yes, traditional braces are slightly cheaper!

 

Differences Between Metal Braces and Invisalign

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Both options are effective, but they use different approaches to establish the straightening effects on your teeth. Traditional metal braces use wires, brackets, and elastics to move teeth into proper alignment. In contrast, Invisalign relies on plastic aligners to do the same thing. Metal braces must be professionally removed once your course of treatment is over. You can remove the tray yourself with Invisalign. Your trays are replenished every two weeks. You continue to replace your trays with new sets until your treatment is finished. You only have to wear the aligners for 22 hours each day, while braces are worn all of the time.

What Is Popular Now?

More and more teens and adults are gravitating to Invisalign. The natural look of these braces alternative allows individuals to feel more confident in their appearance while still undergoing treatment. To decide which braces approach is right for you, determine how important your teeth look is to you in your daily life.

Whether to fit in at school or look your best at work, Invisalign is worth some consideration before opting for traditional metal braces. Regardless of the approach, you take for straighter teeth, know that both methods are effectively straightening teeth and improving alignment.

Work With Our Office in Tarpon Springs For Effective Dental Services

Reach out to an orthodontist today to discuss your options for achieving straighter teeth. A brighter, straighter smile is only months away. Suppose you are looking for a healthy and bright smile. We are here to help with your teeth misalignment problems in Tarpon Springs. Whether you are clear aligners or general help with Invisalign, our team is here for you through the whole process.

Contact us today at Tarpon Dental for clear braces or clear aligners. We would be pleased to understand your need for clear braces and address your overall oral health. You may call us at 727-937-4285 for a free consultation!