Cosmetic dental services are increasingly understood to do more than just create beautiful smiles. The dental health benefits of a proper bite and aligned teeth are additional considerations for families thinking about orthodontic care. Today, there are more options than there were in the past, including traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners such as Invisalign.
If you or someone in your family is in need of orthodontic care and you want to know whether to choose Invisalign or braces, reach out to Dental Designs of Maryland – Hanover, MD. Our staff can walk you through Invisalign vs. braces: cost, results, and benefits of each. Connecting with us is simple—call us at 443.733.6879. We can help you determine whether Invisalign or braces is the best choice for you or a family member.
Choosing Invisalign or Braces
In most cases, choosing which technique to use is up to the patient and their family. In some cases, your dentist may have a reason to recommend one over the other due to a specific benefit. Otherwise, you can weigh the various benefits of each and make an informed decision.
Braces
Benefits include the following:
- Regardless of specific issues, traditional braces remain the most universally effective method for aligning teeth. One reason is that they can exert greater force on the structures in the mouth than Invisalign does.
- Metal or ceramic braces usually last shorter than clear aligners, so for those interested in speedier orthodontic treatment, braces may be preferable.
The disadvantages of braces that some people find concerning include:
- The visibility of braces is a turn-off for some, especially adults, who want to fly under the radar as they correct their teeth and bite.
- Braces require more office visits than Invisalign, as the adjustments are made directly by the orthodontist. Care involves limitations on food and drink, and flossing and brushing are a bit more challenging.
Invisalign
Invisalign’s clear aligners are another excellent choice for those seeking straighter teeth and a healthier bite. Some of the benefits people appreciate include:
- They are not noticeable in day-to-day situations when interacting with others.
- There is considerable convenience and comfort in being able to eat anything and easily floss and brush with aligners out of the mouth.
- You require fewer office visits because you go home with a number of trays from each visit and schedule an appointment when it’s time to change them.
Some drawbacks of Invisalign include:
- The inconvenience of having to remove them to eat or drink can also lead to compliance issues if you forget to put them back in your mouth in a timely manner to achieve the minimum number of hours per day (20 hours).
- For some people, Invisalign will not fully achieve all the desired results within the mouth. Depending on what those are, your orthodontist may recommend braces.
Whichever way you choose to go, you will not be sorry you chose to take care of your oral health and smile with Dental Designs of Maryland – Hanover, MD.
Comparing Invisalign vs. Braces and Their Results
The results of both braces and Invisalign are similar: straighter teeth, a healthier bite, and an improved overall appearance. However, the timeline and process to achieve these results may differ. Braces typically require a longer treatment time of 18 to 24 months, while Invisalign treatment can range from six to 18 months. Some orthodontic issues may be better suited for one treatment over the other.
For example, braces are typically more effective in correcting severe bite issues, while Invisalign may be a better option for minor spacing or alignment concerns. Our team at Dental Designs of Maryland – Hanover, MD, can help determine which treatment option will provide the best results for your specific needs.
Invisalign vs. Braces and Their Cost of Treatment
The cost of treatment is a natural concern for individuals and families considering orthodontics and deciding between Invisalign or braces. Generally speaking, the cost of the two treatments is comparable. The prices depend on the length of treatment and what is being treated. Certain bite issues or coping with severe overcrowding can add to the costs. Some dental insurance plans cover part of orthodontic treatment. Check with your insurance carrier to see what part of the cost of Invisalign or braces might be included.
Call Dental Designs of Maryland – Hanover, MD, Today to Schedule an Appointment
When it comes to comparing Invisalign vs. braces results, in most cases, they are the same. There are some situations where the orthodontist prefers and recommends braces. Otherwise, there is no reason not to choose braces for your teenagers because you don’t want them to lose their trays at school or pick Invisalign for yourself because you think braces might affect how you’re perceived in the workplace.
Reach out today to Dental Designs of Maryland – Hanover, MD, by calling 443.733.6879 or contacting us online. We will schedule a consultation and help you decide which treatment option is best for you or your family member. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional dental care and helping patients achieve their dream smile.