Braces vs Invisalign: A Comparison

No one wants to have crooked or poorly spaced teeth. In addition to looking less beautiful than straight, well-aligned teeth, they are more difficult to clean well. That can lead to problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Fortunately, there are multiple solutions, including braces and Invisalign. But which one should you choose?

Suitability

One of the first things to look at when choosing between braces and Invisalign is their suitability for fixing the problems at hand. Invisalign isn’t a good option for more complex cases. In comparison, there aren’t many alignment issues that can’t be fixed with braces. Sometimes they even offer superior results. That said, if your orthodontic problems are relatively minor and the subtle look of Invisalign aligners appeals to you, they may be a suitable solution.

Maintenance

When it comes to appliance maintenance, Invisalign walks away as the clear winner. They are meant to be removed when eating and drinking, whereas braces cannot be removed. Your teeth are much easier to clean with Invisalign than with braces, and cleaning the aligners is also easier. That said, the aligners can only work when they are in your mouth, so you have to be responsible enough to remember to put them back in after taking them out. They must be worn for a minimum of 22 hours to work. Braces, on the other hand, are at work 24/7. Not having the option of taking them out means you don’t have to worry about putting them back in.

Cost

Cost is another major concern when it comes to orthodontic treatments. There’s not much sense in looking into treatments you can’t afford, after all. When it comes to cost, braces tend to be more affordable than Invisalign, though that can depend on what type of braces you’re looking into. Traditional metal braces are often the most affordable option. Lingual braces are completely customized like Invisalign aligners are, so their costs are more comparable. That said, many orthodontists offer financing to make different treatment options more affordable.

Deciding whether to choose braces or Invisalign is a personal decision. Which one is right for you depends on things like the severity of the issue, your ability and willingness to follow care instructions, and your budget. Talk to your orthodontist about the options available to you during your initial consultation. Your orthodontist can help you find answers to your questions and figure out what treatment is best for you.

At Stellar Family Orthodontics, we believe that everyone should be able to afford high-quality treatment. Click here to learn more about our financing options today!

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We have two convenient locations in Mukilteo and Mill Creek, WA.

Learn More About Invisalign® First

Invisalign® First allows children whose teeth are still growing to use Invisalign® aligners to straighten their teeth.

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Learn more about ways to cover the cost of your orthodontic treatment.