Is Invisalign Better Than Braces?

December 13, 2021
Risinger Orthodontics

Invisalign’s advanced clear aligners allow patients to straighten their smiles with less-noticeable appliances. Invisalign can successfully address many orthodontic conditions. However, no two people are alike. Some people may need braces to help with their smiles.

Almost every day, patients ask us: “Is Invisalign better than braces”? As a board-certified Invisalign Top 1% Diamond Plus expert, Dr. Rick knows how to get superior results out of your treatment.

Learn more about the differences between Invisalign and braces by booking a complimentary consultation today.

Is Invisalign More Expensive Than Braces?

Every patient has unique needs. Without a complimentary consultation, it is difficult to answer the question is Invisalign more expensive than braces. This is because each person will have different treatment needs.

That said, Invisalign treatment ranges from $2,500-$7,000. Likewise, braces can range in price from $2,000-$7,500. These figures do not include any insurance coverage.

During your complimentary consultation, we will provide you with a better idea of your out-of-pocket costs.

What’s the Difference Between Braces and Clear Aligners?

Patients often consider four details when deciding on the best orthodontic plan for their individual needs:

The cost
Comfort
The appearance
The degree of tooth alteration

Understanding the pros and cons of each method helps patients make the best decision possible.

Pros of Clear Aligners

Some of the reasons patients love Invisalign include:

Visual appeal: With advanced technology, Invisalign uses nearly imperceptible trays to align your teeth.
Increased Comfort: Invisalign places gentler forces on the teeth as it repositions them. With no wires, brackets, or other metal pieces, patients bypass scarring, cuts, and irritation of the gums and tissues in their mouth.
Convenience: patients using Invisalign aligners typically enjoy fewer orthodontist visits, simplified hygienic care (since the removable trays are easy to clean), and fewer dietary restrictions.

Cons of Clear Aligners

While unarguably the most cosmetically appealing plan, Invisalign treatments only address some of the advanced orthodontic issues that braces alleviate. Some of the negatives of wearing Invisalign aligners include:

Added Responsibility – Keeping up with your trays, cleaning them, and wearing them 22 hours a day is essential. Neglecting these responsibilities will prolong treatment.
Advanced Orthodontic Issues – Invisalign’s success depends on the degree of turned teeth, the distance between teeth, and the irregularity of a patient’s bite. Braces may be a better option in more advanced cases.
Previous or Planned Dental Work – Patients with prior or planned dental procedures should consult an orthodontist before beginning treatment. Caps, crowns, and dental bridges restrict gripping and alter the shape of a patient’s mouth, making Invisalign a less beneficial option than traditional braces.

Although Invisalign can’t address every issue, you would be surprised to learn how many people can benefit from treatment. Dr. Rick is among the top 1% of Invisalign providers in the U.S. As an Invisalign Platinum Plus Provider, he can address many advanced conditions with aligners.

Pros of Braces

Some of the benefits of braces include:

Work around the clock – Braces are constantly working to improve your smile.
Decisive movement – Braces address advanced orthodontic needs like severely crooked teeth, gaps, and overbites.

Cons of Traditional Braces

While traditional braces provide many benefits in orthodontic care, patients often avoid them for these reasons:

Discomfort – Braces are sometimes bulky and uncomfortable. Along with the worries of broken wires and brackets, patients also must come in for more regular check-ups.
High Maintenance – Learning how to care for your braces involves new flossing methods, brushing, and dietary restrictions.
Visibility – Even with tooth-colored or clear brackets, braces are more visible than Invisalign.
Inconvenience – While patients typically wear braces for a shorter time, they may require more regular orthodontist appointments.

Which is Better: Braces or Invisalign?

Invisalign and braces both offer stunning results for teens and adults. At Risinger Orthodontics, our patients enjoy a family-friendly environment that prioritizes their needs and comfort. It’s why people have trusted us with their smiles for over 52 years.

There’s never been a better time to learn about your options! Schedule a complimentary consultation now to learn more.