When you decide to fix the alignment of your teeth, one of the first questions you need to answer is: which is more expensive, invisible braces or conventional braces? There are many options, and each has its own peculiarities and disadvantages.
In this article, you will be introduced to the factors that determine the price of invisible orthodontics or traditional orthodontics, their peculiarities and which option, depending on your requirements, might be more appropriate.
Factors influencing the price of orthodontic treatment
Among the various elements that influence the prices of invisible or traditional orthodontics, among the most frequent are:
Complexity of the dental case.
Your dental case may be more complex than someone else’s, which will influence the cost of your treatment. For example, if you only have a slight misalignment, it will cost less than someone with a more extreme case that requires more extensive tooth movements.
Length of treatment
Treatment time is also an important factor. In general, the longer the treatment takes, the more it will cost. This is due to the need to schedule more visits to your orthodontist’s office and more adjustments during the procedure.
Materials and technology used
The type of materials and technology involved in the treatment also influence the costs. Treatments, such as invisible aligners, which are more advanced and customised, will be significantly more expensive due to the materials and technology.
What is invisible orthodontics (Invisalign)?
Using a set of clear, removable aligners, invisible orthodontics (also known as Invisalign) helps straighten teeth. Custom-made for each patient, these aligners are replaced every two weeks to progressively align the teeth.
How Invisalign treatment works and its features
Invisalign works by using a series of customised, removable invisible aligners to progressively move teeth into the desired position. Each new set of aligners is worn for approximately two weeks before moving on to the next in the series.
Advantages of Invisalign over braces
Aside from how much invisible aligners cost, discretion is a key advantage. The aligners are virtually undetectable, so you can straighten your teeth almost unnoticed. They are also removable, making it easy to clean your teeth and maintain proper oral hygiene.
Disadvantages of Invisalign to Consider
Invisalign is not appropriate for all situations. In complicated circumstances, conventional braces may be more successful. In addition, they must be worn for at least 22 hours a day, which some people find difficult. In addition to these disadvantages, Invisalign is more expensive than traditional braces.
What are traditional braces?
Traditional orthodontics consists of placing small metal brackets on the outside of each tooth.Metal wire that is periodically tightened connects these brackets to progressively align the teeth.
Types of brackets: metal, ceramic and sapphire brackets
Metal, ceramic and sapphire are the various materials used in traditional braces.Metal brackets are usually the most affordable and most commonly used option. Although they tend to be more expensive, ceramic and sapphire brackets are more subtle.
Advantages of brackets over Invisalign
Braces are quite successful in treating difficult cases of dental alignment.They are always a great option for fixing your smile, as they don’t rely on you remembering to wear them. Plus, the prices of traditional braces are still lower than the price of invisible braces.
Disadvantages of braces compared to Invisalign
Braces are more noticeable and, especially at first, can be painful.They can also complicate teeth cleaning and require constant changes.
Price comparison between invisible orthodontics and braces
Average Invisalign Price
Invisalign invisible orthodontic prices are generally higher than conventional braces. The length of therapy and complexity of the case will determine the fee, which can vary by several thousand dollars.
Average price for traditional braces
Although their prices vary, but are usually lower than the price of invisible braces, metal brackets are the least expensive option. Sapphire and ceramic brackets cost more than metal brackets.
Which is the most economical option in the long term?
Because brackets are useful for treating complicated cases without the need for subsequent or lengthy treatments, which can increase the overall cost, they may be more affordable in the long term.
Treatment time: which is faster?
Average Invisalign treatment time
Although Invisalign treatment usually lasts between 12 and 18 months, the complexity of your case will influence this.
Average braces duration
Depending on your personal needs, treatment with conventional orthodontics can last between 18 and 24 months.
How does duration affect cost?
Treatment will cost more the longer it lasts, as more visits to the orthodontist and more modifications will be necessary.
Aesthetics and comfort: how Invisalign compares to braces
Aesthetic advantages of Invisalign
As an aesthetic advantage, we can mention that no matter how much Invisalign braces cost, they are almost unnoticeable orthodontic appliances. Therefore, you may want to consider this discreet alternative to align your jaw.
Comfort during treatment: Invisalign or braces?
Despite the price of invisible braces, they are generally more pleasant than braces, as they avoid the use of wires or brackets that can aggravate the inside of your mouth or gums. In addition, you can remove them to eat and have your teeth cleaned.
What is the best option depending on the type of dental problem?
Mild to moderate malocclusion cases.
Thanks to their ease, discretion and despite the price of Invisalign, they can be a great option for mild to severe malocclusion.
Severe malocclusion cases
Because they offer greater control over tooth movement, traditional braces may be more suitable for more severe situations. Also, unlike the price of invisible orthodontic treatment which can be quite high, traditional braces can be a little more affordable.
Visit your orthodontist for professional diagnosis
For a professional diagnosis, regardless of your taste, it is always necessary to visit an orthodontist. The right treatment recommendations and a good assessment of your needs depend on a professional.
In addition, professionals are the ones who will tell you how much invisible or traditional orthodontics will cost so that you can make an informed decision.
Conclusions
Several elements that influence your decision, such as average price, invisible orthodontics and the price of conventional braces… Each alternative has advantages and disadvantages. To review your options and see which one is ideal for you, we advise you to see your orthodontist.Don’t let uncertainty stop you from having the smile you’ve always wanted. Plan your visit now to start on the road to better oral health.