Invisalign is one of today’s most popular options for improving dental health and aesthetics. Invisalign works similarly to braces, but the device offers a variety of benefits not found with traditional braces. Often, people choose Invisalign because treatment takes less time than conventional braces. However, Invisalign is also removable and isn’t as noticeable as braces.
If you’re contemplating Invisalign and comparing the device to the other orthodontic treatment options, here’s what you need to know.
Is Invisalign Faster than Braces?
People considering Invisalign or wondering if it’s a better option than traditional braces often want to know if treatment takes less time. The simplest answer is “it depends.”
In most cases, Invisalign treatment will take about 12 to 18 months. For most people, this is significantly less time than braces, typically worn for about 18 months to three years. In addition to treatment taking less time, it often feels even shorter for Invisalign wearers because it’s a more convenient option than braces.
Why Does Invisalign Treatment Take Less Time?
Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners. Every week or two, wearers switch to a different aligner that shifts their teeth slightly more than the previous aligner. Gradually, the aligners shift teeth into the desired position.
Braces, on the other hand, use brackets and wires that are occasionally adjusted by an orthodontist to shift teeth. Not only do braces take longer to shift teeth, they also require more attention from the orthodontist.
In most cases, Invisalign wearers have their set of aligners and change them at home on the appointed schedule. Braces require orthodontist visits for adjustments. Most people visit the orthodontist every six weeks to two months when wearing Invisalign.
Although Invisalign wearers often require additional treatment once they finish their aligners, it’s less common than braces wearers. This is because minor adjustments are sometimes needed to wrap up treatment. Retainers are the most common follow-up treatment option in both cases.
Benefits of Invisalign
In addition to taking less time to correct teeth alignment and fewer visits to the orthodontist, Invisalign offers a variety of other benefits you won’t find with braces. For example:
More Aesthetically Pleasing
Most people believe that Invisalign looks better than braces. There are no wires or metal brackets. Invisalign aligners are clear, removable trays. They’re mostly unnoticeable, but if need be, even though it’s not usually recommended, you could remove the aligners and not wear them for a special occasion. This is never the case with braces. Once they’re on your teeth, they’re stuck there and visible until treatment is complete.
Removable
There are times when you’re supposed to remove Invisalign for short periods. You won’t need to wear the aligners when eating, drinking, brushing, or flossing your teeth. This makes it much easier to do these things and simplifies your dental care routine.
Comfort
Most people agree that Invisalign aligners are much more comfortable than braces. They are made of plastic, so unlike metal braces, they tend not to irritate your gums or cheeks. There is also no need for adjustments, as there is with braces. Adjustments tend to leave braces wearers uncomfortable for a few days afterward.
Oral Health
People who choose Invisalign over braces tend to enjoy better dental health. The removability of Invisalign aligners makes hygiene much easier, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and gum inflammation.
Speech
Invisalign aligners tend to have minimal impact on speech. Because they are custom-fitted to the wearer, speech is rarely affected except for the first few hours or days.
Results
Invisalign treatment plans are developed using computer technology that plans and predicts the movement of your teeth. This gives you optimal results and reduces the risk of complications and the need for follow-up treatment.
Versatility
Invisalign is great for correcting a variety of dental issues, including:
- Gaps between teeth
- Crossbite
- Underbite
- Overbite
- Overcrowding
- Misalignment
What’s the Downside of Invisalign?
As practical and beneficial as Invisalign is, it isn’t right for everyone. In many cases, Invisalign treatment costs more than traditional braces, although the cost varies depending on the duration of treatment, where you live, and what dental issues you’re trying to correct.
On average, Invisalign costs anywhere from $3000 to $8000. Traditional braces tend to run between $2500 and $7000.
There’s also dental insurance coverage to consider. Some dental insurance covers orthodontic treatment plans, including Invisalign or at least a portion of the cost of Invisalign treatment. However, if you’re opting to undergo Invisalign treatment for aesthetic reasons, insurance is less likely to offer coverage.
It’s always best to consult with your orthodontics, dental, and health insurance providers to determine your exact out-of-pocket cost for treatment.
Additionally, Invisalign isn’t the best corrective option for everyone. People who are not good candidates for Invisalign aligners include those who:
- Have severe bite issues
- Have severe crowding or misalignment
- Are younger with still-developing mouths
- Are unwilling to comply with the treatment plan
- Have jaw alignment problems or significant dental abnormalities
Choosing Between Invisalign and Braces
The best thing you can do to determine if Invisalign treatment and its benefits over braces are suitable for you is to consult your dentist or orthodontist. They can provide a complete evaluation of your dental health and the corrective measures needed to help you decide if Invisalign is a treatment option worth pursuing.
If you’d like to know more about Invisalign or are ready to proceed with treatment, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
