The question of whether to get braces or Invisalign is one that many people face. Both treatments can help you get straighter, well-aligned teeth for a flawless smile.
So there are many factors to consider, such as cost, appearance, and maintenance. So we contacted Gies Family Dentistry in San Antonio, Tx to sort out the confusion.
In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of both braces vs Invisalign so that you can make an informed decision.
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Pros and Cons of Braces
Braces are the traditional teeth correcting system that are in use for several decades. They are made from metallic wires and brackets glued to the teeth.
Pros
- Braces are a general treatment that may be applied to both straightforward and complex situations. Due to the fact that they cling directly to each tooth, they are significantly more effective than transparent aligners.
- They are permanently attached to the tooth so there is less responsibility involved. Unlike Invisalign, you won’t have to take them out to eat or wear them for at least 22 hours a day. Therefore, it is most suited for kids users, however teenagers and adults can benefit from it as well.
- Drinking beverages like tea, coffee, or red wine throughout the day won’t stain your metal braces.
Cons
- Metal braces can be quite uncomfortable though as they can cause irritation or cuts along the inside of the mouth.
- They are also plainly visible to others which leads to self-esteem issues among teens and adults.
- You also have to avoid any hard, sticky foods that can get trapped in the brackets or potentially break the wires. Such situations can be painful and need a visit to the dental clinic for repairs.
- While Invisalign can be managed remotely, braces do require need frequent visits to the dentist for maintenance and upkeep. This is a huge concern for teens and adults who often lead busy lifestyles.
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Pros and Cons of Invisalign
Invisalign uses clear aligner trays that fit snugly around your teeth. They are made from soft-comfortable plastic and are quite popular among teens and adults.
Pros:
- The biggest benefit of Invisalign is the discretion it provides. The aligners are not visible to anyone which is why people often choose them over braces.
- While there is some initial discomfort due to the movement of teeth, the aligners don’t cause any cuts or irritation as they are made from soft materials.
- Unlike traditional braces, cleaning your teeth with Invisalign is as easy as removing the aligners and brushing and flossing normally.
- Since you need to remove your aligners before every meal, you can eat any food you like as long as you brush your teeth afterward. So no need to avoid popcorns, candies, nuts, etc.
- There are fewer visits to the dental clinics with invialgn as compared to frequent visits required for traditional braces. So it is an ideal treatment plan for people with busy lifestyles.
Cons
- Invisalign doesn’t work in all cases, so some people may have no choice but go with traditional braces.
- You cannot eat or drink anything except water while you are wearing Invisalign aligners as they can be easily damaged or stained. So brushing your teeth every time you put them back on can be a hassle for binge eaters.
- The aligners have to be worn for a minimum of 22 hours to be effective which requires discipline. So it is not a suitable option for kids.
- You need to brush and floss your teeth every time you put back your aligners in the mouth. It is good hygiene practice to avoid cavities and gum infections but can be problematic for some people who are not used to having such oral hygiene practices.
Treatment Plan and Cost for Braces and Invisalign
The exact treatment plan for both Invisalign and braces varies from case to case. The average treatment plan for braces is 2 years whereas Invisalign can take anywhere between 6-24 months.
Out of the two, braces are the most affordable option and can cost between $2000-$6000. Invisalign costs slightly more as the average price varies between $3000-$7000.
Which Is Right For You? Braces vs Invisalign?
There are many factors to consider when choosing between braces and Invisalign. Some factors include the severity of your misalignment, your age, your lifestyle, and your budget.
Invisalign costs a little more but is more convenient and discreet. Whereas braces are slightly cheaper and can do complicated corrections.
Therefore, it is recommended that you see a dentist to determine the best course of action.
If you are interested in finding out more about Invisalign braces in San Antonio, Tx, you can consult Dr. Lavoyger Gies at Gies Family Dental.
He has extensive expertise with both traditional braces and Invisalign, and he handles patients of all ages. To book an appointment, please contact Gies Dental Clinic either by phone or online.
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