Is Invisalign Cheaper
Than Braces?

Is Invisalign cheaper than braces?

Guest post by Dr. Satish Pai, New York

Is Invisalign cheaper than braces? This is a very common question. People want to get their teeth straightened as cheaply as possible. But it's not a simple 'Yes' or 'No' answer.

As always, 'It depends'!

Misaligned teeth cause several oral health problems. Research has shown that crooked teeth, can even lead to a heart disease with time. But it's not too late or difficult to rectify the damage. Orthodontic treatment now is incredibly effective and can be done at all ages. And no, we aren't suggesting a prolonged battle with metal braces. But, we are recommending you to visit your orthodontist to discuss your orthodontic options.

A dental nurse in a blue top holding an Invisalign splint

Is Invisalign cheaper
than braces?

Invisalign, unlike traditional bulky braces, are a set of clear, removable, and manageable aligners. They are a stress-free answer to several alignment problems.

These aligners stay in place without any additional adhesive or fastenings, and are custom designed to fit your own individual teeth. Now that we have your attention, let's delve into some more details!

The Process of Invisalign Braces

The process begins with a small digital camera, to create a highly detailed 3-D map of your teeth and gums, with the help of advanced imaging software. This map helps to show the tooth movements needed to give you a straight smile! Because this is done before the start of treatment, you are able to see a preview your how your new smile will look.

Then, several different pairs of aligners are manufactured. You wear them in series, one set at a time, changing over to the next set as your teeth start to shift in the direction needed for a straight smile.

What Misalignment Issues Can Invisalign Braces Treat?

Here are the main 5 issues to do with crooked teeth that Invisalign splints can improve;

Gapped teeth, when there is an extra space between two or more teeth
Open bite, wherein the upper and lower teeth don't overlap
Crossbite, in which some of the upper teeth come down through the bottom teeth resulting in chipping
Overbite, in which the upper set of teeth are in front of the bottom set of teeth when aligned
Lastly, an underbite is a condition in which the bottom set of teeth are in front of the upper set

Is Invisalign cheaper than braces for these issues? The answer is 'Yes, probably'; It is less involved than fixed brackets and arch wires, and takes up less dentist time.

Duration of Invisalign Braces treatment

For adults, Invisalign treatment can take up to twelve to eighteen months, while teens usually need about two to three years. But, because the process of Invisalign is highly convenient and effortless, time won't be a disturbance. BUT you need to wear the invisalign splints for a minimum of 20 hours a day. You have to take them out to eat, and for some contact sports.

Braces that have metal brackets fixed to your teeth and metal wires are faster, because they are working 24 hours a day - you never take the braces out until treatment is complete. But you need to see the orthodontist more often, and it is the orthodontist's time that costs the most.

How to Figure Out if You Need Invisalign Braces Treatment?

Invisalign is intended for most adult and teen patients who have common orthodontic bite problems. However, more complicated cases would require extra precise tooth control, which cannot be achieved simply with a removable aligner - fixed brackets and archwires will be needed.Only a professional consultation will help you decide whether Invisalign will be suitable for you or not.

How Long Do I Wear Invisalign Braces?

Once you start to wear them regularly, the aligners need time to gradually insert pressure on your teeth and move them into their designated position. To maximize their effectiveness, you will need to wear the aligners for 20-22 hours daily.

What are the Benefits of Invisalign Braces?

Invisalign clear braces are a reliable alternative to metal braces. Here's why:

Discrete: These aligners are generally hard to notice, even up close. Clean them regularly to prevent staining.

Faster Results: Change can be seen in as little as 6 weeks if the treatment is followed thoroughly with minimal downtime not wearing the aligners.

Less pain: Unlike metal braces that can cut into your gums with wires and brackets, the Invisalign braces cause no additional injuries.

Removable and sport-friendly: You can take them out while brushing, eating, or playing, so you won't have to give up on any of your favorite foods or sports.

Fewer Appointments: Slipping into the new aligners, designed for every modification in your teeth alignment process every 10 – 14 days, eliminates the hassle of a monthly routine check-up.

This usually results in Invisalign treatment being cheaper than braces.

What are the Care Instructions?

The only instruction after treatment with Invisalign clear aligners is to wear the final retainers regularly. Our teeth 'remember' their original positions in our mouths, and will always tend to drift back after orthodontic treatment. Therefore, it becomes essential to wear retainers to maintain their new positions.

Sounds achievable, right? If this article was convincing enough, don't wait for more damage to befall your beautiful smile. Make your way to an uncomplicated yet effective orthodontic treatment with Invisalign clear aligners. Schedule an appointment with your orthodontist today.

Invisalign Braces Author Bio

Dr. Satish Pai

Dr. Satish Pai – an Ivy League trained dentist and a faculty at Columbia University, believes that a perfect smile not only makes a person look great but feel great while boosting confidence. As the founder of Putnam Orthodontics, he is dedicated to not only creating perfect smiles for his patients but also educating people with his engaging articles about all things related to a perfect smile and oral health. Spending time with his family always brings a smile on his face. In his free time, you can find him golfing, doing yoga or surfing.

https://www.putnamorthodontics.com/