When it comes to straightening your smile, many patients wonder whether is Invisalign cheaper than braces. In reality, the cost for both options is similar, and you can usually find affordable payment plans.

Additionally, if you have dental insurance or use your FSA or HSA account to pay for Invisalign, you can typically save even more money.

Cost

Invisalign costs vary widely depending on your unique situation and needs. Your dental insurance plan may cover some of the cost, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, some orthodontists include services like retainers or follow-up appointments in their treatment packages, influencing the total cost.

The biggest issue is that you must remove the aligners to eat and drink, and brush and floss. This can be inconvenient and may lead to increased chances of decay and stains in your mouth. Sticky or hard foods can also damage or break your aligners, requiring more frequent visits to the doctor for repair.

Despite these drawbacks, Invisalign is more effective in moving teeth than braces. It is also an appealing option for people who want to improve their smile without noticeable wires or sections on their teeth. However, it is important to discuss your options with an orthodontist and choose the treatment that best fits your needs and lifestyle.

Appearance

Invisalign wins this one hands-down. The clear plastic material blends in with your teeth so that it’s virtually undetectable. In contrast, traditional metal braces are very noticeable.

Additionally, the removable Invisalign trays let you eat whatever you want. You just have to remember to take the trays out before eating and then put them back in afterwards. This eliminates the need for changing your diet to avoid foods that could damage or break a bracket.

That said, some patients struggle to stick with the Invisalign regimen. It requires a lot of discipline to remember to wear the trays and remove them before eating or drinking, as well as brushing and flossing before putting the trays back in. It’s important to talk to your orthodontist about your teeth and bite issues before choosing a treatment plan. They can help you decide whether Invisalign or braces is better for you. They can also explain the costs of each treatment option.

Comfort

The smooth, comfortable plastic of Invisalign and ClearCorrect makes them far more pleasant to wear than the sharp edges and wires that are characteristic of braces. This is especially true for adults who may feel self-conscious about the appearance of their orthodontic appliances.

Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign and ClearCorrect can be removed when eating and drinking. This allows patients to enjoy their favorite foods without having to worry about food stuck in the braces or getting a sore mouth from eating crunchy, hard or sticky foods.

However, this convenience can also be a disadvantage because it increases the risk of the aligners being misplaced or forgotten to be put back in before eating. To reduce the likelihood of this, patients should brush their teeth before putting in their aligners and should clean the trays regularly to prevent odors caused by bacteria buildup. This is a simple step that can be done by using a toothbrush dipped in water with a bit of toothpaste or a dental cleaner tablet.

Time

The total cost of Invisalign is often much less than traditional braces. Many doctors offer monthly payment plans and financing, which allow patients to pay for their treatment over a longer period of time rather than paying in one lump sum up front. Some doctors also accept FSAs and HSAs, which are pre-tax accounts that can be used to cover out-of-pocket medical expenses.

The average Invisalign treatment lasts between 12 and 18 months, but this will vary based on your individual needs and how well you follow your doctor’s instructions regarding wearing the aligners. Younger people may find that they have a shorter treatment time than adults, as younger teeth and gums are softer and can move more easily.

The duration of the Invisalign process can also depend on how diligently you wear your trays, and how consistent your orthodontist is with scheduling appointments for routine check-ups. Some dental insurance plans also cover Invisalign treatments, either as a percentage of the total cost or up to a certain dollar amount.