When it comes to orthodontic treatment, many people are faced with the difficult decision of choosing between braces and Invisalign. While both treatments can be effective in straightening teeth and correcting common dental problems, such as an overbite or an underbite, there are some key differences between the two that should be taken into consideration. Braces have more strength to move your teeth to the desired position than Invisalign, which is limited in terms of the number of teeth that can be moved at one time. Treatment with braces can also be much faster, as metal braces are immovable, whereas Invisalign depends on the patient's needs and can take 6 to 18 months if worn 22 to 24 hours a day.
Many people choose Invisalign instead of traditional orthodontic appliances because transparent aligners are virtually invisible and more discreet. Invisalign is also usually more comfortable than braces and requires fewer visits to the orthodontist. As the trays can be removed, people who use them can generally eat and drink whatever they prefer. Research suggests that people who wear traditional braces experience more pain and discomfort than those who use Invisalign, especially in the first few weeks of treatment and every time an orthodontist tightens them.
When it comes to cost, both braces and Invisalign have similar out-of-pocket costs, although some insurance plans are more likely to partially cover them. Adults who are hesitant to straighten their teeth because of the appearance of an older person with braces will enjoy the idea of using Invisalign because the trays are transparent. Ultimately, it is important to consult with your orthodontist to determine which treatment is best for you. Depending on the specific problem, some treatments may be difficult or impossible to achieve with Invisalign alone, so your orthodontist may discuss the possibility of finishing tooth positions with braces, which could result in a more expensive treatment.
