Traditional braces have been the go-to solution for correcting dental issues for decades. Made from metal brackets and wires, they work by applying constant pressure to gradually move your teeth into the correct position.
Invisalign, on the other hand, is a more modern, sophisticated orthodontic option that’s gained a great deal of popularity due to its distinct advantages over traditional braces. These clear aligners work discreetly to transform your smile without the visible wires and brackets we associate with braces. Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, removable aligners that gradually shift your teeth into place.
The Cost Factor: Invest in Your Smile
Traditional braces typically cost between $3,000 and $7,000. Invisalign treatment tends to cost a little more, usually in the region of $4,000 and $8,000. Dental insurance can often provide a substantial contribution towards your orthodontic treatment, which could be as much as 50% of the total costs.
What people often don’t realize is that many dental insurances include treatment with Invisalign, so you don’t have to opt for traditional braces just because you’re claiming through your insurance provider. So, for just a little more, you can enjoy the extra comfort and improved aesthetics of Invisalign!
For more details on insurance coverage, you can check out the American Association of Orthodontists’ insurance guide.
Your Treatment Timeline
Under the expert care of Dr. Matthew Durschlag at San Diego Smile Pros, you’ll receive tailored care that is carefully planned to meet your unique requirements. To that end, treatment times can differ, but as a rough guide you can expect the timeline to be as follows:
Traditional braces:
- 18-24 months for complex cases
- 12-18 months for moderate alignment issues
- 6-12 months for minor corrections
- 15-21 months for complex cases
- 9-15 months for moderate cases
- 3-9 months for minor alignment issues
As you can see, the treatment timeline tends to be shorter with Invisalign, and remember, this is only a guide, some patients see results much faster, it just depends on how your teeth and jaws react to the treatment and how consistently you wear your aligners.
Comfort and Lifestyle Impact
When you choose to have aligners, you’re going to be living with them for several months so you need to know how they’re going to impact your lifestyle…
Traditional braces:
- Initial soreness after adjustments
- Potential for mouth sores
- Food restrictions (no hard or sticky foods)
- No removal option
- Highly visible
- Oral hygiene takes additional time
Invisalign aligners:
- Less discomfort and smooth
- Must be worn 20-22 hours daily
- Nearly invisible
- Brushing and flossing are easy
- Can be removed for special events
Maintenance and Care
Looking after your teeth while undergoing orthodontic treatment is incredibly important. By keeping your teeth clean, you’re reducing the risks of tooth decay and gum disease, and ensuring you get the very best results from your treatment. The care requirements for traditional braces and Invisalign aligners do differ, so it’s important to learn the correct care routine for your choice of treatment.
Traditional Braces Care:
- Brush after every meal
- Use the recommended flossing tools
- Attend regular orthodontist visits every 4-8 weeks
- Avoid certain foods and beverages (hard foods and carbonated beverages)
Invisalign Care:
- Clean your aligners daily
- Remove your aligners when eating or drinking (except water)
- Get new aligners every 1-2 weeks
- Attend regular check-ups every 8-12 weeks
Age-Specific Considerations: It’s Never Too Late to Get that Perfect Smile
There really is no age limit for orthodontic treatment. Perhaps you’ve always wanted beautifully straight teeth but didn’t have the opportunity to have treatment when you were young. It’s never too late! Here at San Diego Smile Pros, we have many older patients seeking the very best in orthodontic treatment.
Perhaps you’ve been put off getting braces because you don’t want that ‘mouth full of metal’ look associated with traditional braces. For both self-conscious teens and adults who feel that wearing braces is for young people and worry it may impact their social or professional lives, Invisalign is the perfect, discreet solution – you can barely notice Invisalign aligners!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much more expensive is Invisalign compared to traditional braces?
Surprisingly, the price difference between Invisalign and traditional braces is not actually that big. Invisalign typically costs $1,000-$2,000 more than traditional braces (prices can vary based on your location and specific needs), then when you factor in a contribution from your dental insurance provider, the extra costs involved are not huge.
Can I switch from traditional braces to Invisalign during treatment?
While possible, it’s not recommended as it can increase treatment time and costs. It’s best to stick with your initial choice, that’s why it’s so important to make the right decision when choosing your treatment method.
Do traditional braces work faster than Invisalign?
In most cases, Invisalign is the fastest treatment option. Occasionally, in more complex cases, traditional braces may give the quickest results.
Will either option affect my speech?
Both traditional braces and Invisalign can cause minor temporary speech impediments, but most patients easily adapt and overcome this within a few days to a week.
Can I play sports with traditional braces or Invisalign?
Yes! With traditional braces, you’ll need a special mouthguard. With Invisalign, you can simply remove the aligners for contact sports.
How often do I need to visit the orthodontist?
Traditional braces require visits every 4-8 weeks, while Invisalign check-ups are typically every 8-12 weeks.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between Invisalign and traditional braces you need to consider your unique needs, lifestyle, and priorities. Traditional braces offer tried-and-true results with a lower initial cost, while Invisalign provides flexibility and improved comfort and aesthetics with a slightly higher price tag. The experienced orthodontists at San Diego Smile Pros are here to help you make an informed decision as to your best route for treatment.
San Diego residents can depend on Dr. Durschlag from San Diego Smile Pros to deliver the highest-quality orthodontic treatment. Dr. Matthew Durschlag is a board-certified orthodontist with a wealth of experience and a whole host of happy clients with beautiful smiles. His specialist skills ensure the successful treatment of even the most complex conditions, including all types of orthodontics, Invisalign, clear and metal braces, lingual braces, TADs (temporary anchorage devices), fixing open bites, crowding, overbites, surgical cases and more!
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