Are you considering orthodontic treatment? It can be difficult to choose between Invisalign treatment or metal braces. And that’s not even considering the other types of braces treatment on the market.
Getting braces may seem like the obvious cosmetic or health choice for correcting problems related to your bite. However, it’s important to choose the right type of braces vs. clear aligners for your needs. Both metal/ceramic braces and Invisalign® and ClearCorrect aligners help straighten teeth, but the process and methods are nothing alike.
Which is Better? Invisalign vs. Braces
There are two popular options when it comes to straightening teeth: Clear aligners or traditional braces.
Invisalign aligners (and other popular clear aligners systems like ClearCorrect) use transparent, removable trays to straighten your teeth. Each aligner is 3D printed and changed out at home. This reduces your orthodontist visits and makes it easier to brush and floss. Plus, your clear aligners are removed whenever you eat or drink anything, so you won’t need to change your diet.
On the other hand, traditional braces use fixed metal brackets and special wires for aligning teeth. Instead of keeping up with switching out trays, metal braces apply firm but gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into the correct position. And today, traditional braces even come in ceramic braces designs and lingual braces (hidden behind your teeth) to give a more “invisible appearance” so to speak.
Is one type of braces better than the other? It depends on your preferences, the type of orthodontic problems you need to address, and how well you’re able to keep up with your home care instructions.
How Does Invisalign Treatment Work?
Invisalign and ClearCorrect aligners use digital technology to map out and plan your orthodontic care. You can even see a virtual model of your new smile before you start wearing aligners. The 3D program allows us to modify your aligner designs before treatment begins if needed to fine-tune your new, beautiful smile.
Clear aligners can be delivered by your Murrieta dentist or orthodontist, and they are virtually invisible. Simply wear them 22 hours a day and change them out as directed. Every pair of aligners is slightly different than the previous one, which is how they move your teeth.
For adults who want an incredible smile but a discreet appearance during treatment, invisible aligners are a clear choice.
Who Should Get Invisalign Aligners/ClearCorrect?
Clear aligners are ideal for anyone who wants an invisible treatment option and won’t mind wearing their aligners as directed. Adults and teens tend to be the best candidates. Thanks to advancements made in invisible aligners technology, treatment options now include care for more complex cases than what was available in the past.
Understanding Traditional Braces
Conventional metal braces use fixed brackets and wires to adjust your tooth positioning. They are usually adjusted every other month (requiring a trip to the dentist or orthodontist office about once every six weeks.)
Younger patients may find it more difficult to keep up with their clear aligners, so a fixed option like traditional braces may be a better fit. In addition, since the metal wires are responsible for tooth movement, braces wearers won’t have to worry about keeping up with the schedule of an Invisalign treatment. Instead, they simply go about their day, and the appliances do all the work for them.
Modifications of Traditional Braces
Not all conventional braces treatment uses metal brackets. Instead, some braces feature ceramic designs, which use a tooth-colored ceramic for a more “clear braces” look. Even though they’re still visible if you look closely at your teeth, they’re more discreet than traditional braces. And then there are lingual braces, which are almost identical to traditional braces, except they’re tucked behind your teeth, out of sight from everyone else.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for Braces?
A typical braces candidate is usually younger patients or teens. But adults can wear regular braces too. In fact, if you have a more moderate to a severe orthodontic problem to address, traditional metal braces may be the best option.
Length of Braces vs. Invisalign Treatment
Invisalign treatments are generally about the same as traditional braces, give or take a little. Your case’s severity will also affect the length of your treatment. During your initial consultation, our Murrieta orthodontist Dr. Do will be able to give you an estimate of the time required to adjust your smile. Braces and Invisalign can be completed in as little as one year or as long as 18-24 months, depending on the individual.
Our Temecula Valley orthodontist also offers accelerated orthodontic treatment options to reduce your total time in braces or aligners. One service we offer is Propel, which can shorten your braces or Invisalign treatment by at least a few months when used as directed.
Cost of Treatment and Monthly Payment Plans
Do braces or Invisalign treatments cost more? Your Invisalign treatment length will impact the cost of your orthodontic therapy. Traditional braces typically charge a flat fee. Invisalign can sometimes be cheaper than braces, a little more, or exactly the same. Your final cost is estimated during your initial evaluation. We will take any insurance coverage into account. Your treatment plans will break down the cost of treatment, fees associated with the type of braces you choose, and any coverage for orthodontic care.
Even if you don’t have a dental insurance provider, we offer flexible payment options for all treatment plans. Easily budget your Invisalign aligners or braces treatment to fit your lifestyle.
When you consider the health advantages of having straighter teeth, investing in orthodontic treatment is a smart decision. Straight smiles aren’t just more attractive, they make brushing and flossing easier, and you’re less likely to develop TMJ disorder or gum disease.
Orthodontic Treatment in Murrieta, CA
Both braces and Invisalign aligners are excellent orthodontic treatment options. Which is the best choice for you? There’s no need to see a specialist orthodontist. Madison Square Dentistry in Murrieta, CA, offers free consultations to discuss your options. Call our Temecula Valley dentist today to reserve a no-obligation consultation.
