Have you ever worn braces? I’d guess most of us have either had braces or have a friend or family member who has. Those of us who’ve worn them know it can be an uncomfortable time – both physically (power chains anyone?) and emotionally (it’s embarrassing to have a mouth full of metal!). 

It doesn’t have to be that way! Millions of people have used Invisalign to get the perfect smile they’ve always wanted. If you’re considering orthodontic work for yourself or a family member, you may want to consider Invisalign. I’m answering a few questions to help you determine if it’s a good option for you.

1. What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an alternative method to braces for straightening teeth. The patient wears a series of custom-made, removable molds called aligners made from a clear thermoplastic material. These aligners – which look similar to trays used for whitening teeth – are each worn in a specific sequence and duration of time as prescribed by the orthodontist. 

2. Is Invisalign as effective as braces?

Traditional braces work – I’m a walking testimonial. But, Invisalign is a great alternative to braces and can be just as effective at treating mild to severe cases including underbite, overbite, overcrowding, and gaps between teeth. Plus, Invisalign is also less painful than braces. There are no wires or brackets in your mouth so you don’t have to worry about the irritation to cheeks and gums that often come with braces. 

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3. What’s a major benefit of Invisalign?  

Who wouldn’t prefer straight teeth sooner rather than later? With Invisalign, your doctor will create a treatment plan and schedule for your custom-made aligners. Here’s the thing, you’ll change aligners out every week. Because you’re changing the aligners out weekly, you’ll notice changes occur quickly! Traditional braces generally require checkups to tighten your braces every 6-8 weeks. During that period between appointments, you’d have adjusted your teeth 6-8 times using Invisalign! The average time to a better smile with Invisalign is 12 months compared to 24 months with traditional braces. So, Invisalign has up to a 50% faster treatment time. Yes, please!

4. Who can use Invisalign? 

Invisalign is a great option for people of all ages – teenagers and adults alike have found success with this method. Keep in mind that Invisalign requires discipline to wear the aligners for 20-22 hours a day, while braces are permanent until they’re removed. Active people, especially those who play contact sports, may find that Invisalign is the better choice because there’s less risk of injury. Adults often prefer Invisalign to braces because they’re much less noticeable (okay, teens like that perk as well!). Users enjoy the ability to go about their daily lives without the impact of braces on their appearance. Plus, you don’t have to abandon specific foods like with traditional braces (order that popcorn at the movies)!

5. What’s the cost?

On average, Invisalign costs between $3,500 and $8,000, depending on your specific need and the severity of correction required. Traditional braces, on the other hand, cost between $2,500 and $6,000. Neither option is inexpensive. Be sure to consider these expenses as well as regular cleaning needs when you make decisions about whether or not to purchase dental insurance (not all of them include orthodontia, by the way) or when comparing discount plans. 

When you consider the various advantages that Invisalign offers over braces, you may find that Invisalign is the better option for you.

Now it’s your turn! Have you had success with Invisalign? What factors determined your decision to go with Invisalign vs. traditional braces? Comment below or email me at trey@freshbenies.com.