Here’s the situation: You want to straighten your teeth but need to decide if you should stick to the typical route and go with braces or opt for nearly invisible straightening with Invisalign.
At Orthobar, the options we offer are simply tools to achieve that Orthobar Smile! A broad, beautiful, harmonious smile that you are proud of.
In times like this, it’s best to ask yourself, “What does my orthodontist think?”
“Well, it depends. Our treatment goal and outcome remain the same… An Orthobar Smile! The biggest difference between braces and aligners is knowing yourself. COMPLIANCE! Each requires a certain amount of compliance; however, aligners require a significantly increased amount of compliance than braces do.” Dr. Kory Grahl, Owner & Partner – Orthobar
If you’re trying to settle your internal struggle to choose between Invisalign and braces, we have your back with this blog post.
Keep reading to learn when braces or Invisalign is a better option and get an orthodontist’s perspective on which one they prefer for clients.
The Best Option for Affordability: Tie
At Orthobar, our treatment pricing depends on the severity of the malocclusion we are treating and has less to do with the type of modality (“tool”) we use to correct the malocclusion.
Up-front starting costs may differ between the different treatment modalities, such as braces or aligners, due to the increased up-front cost to the practice. Aligners require a high laboratory fee to fabricate the aligners, and therefore, the down payment might be higher for aligners.
We are always working with you to find the right financial plan for you!
That’s why it’s a tie! The overall cost for an Orthobar Smile will be similar to that of braces or Invisalign.
The Best Option for Discreet Treatment: Invisalign
Two things remain consistent for all metal braces — wires and brackets.
And while brackets and wires are more discreet than ever, they are still more noticeable than virtually invisible clear aligners.
Since it’s impossible to make entirely clear braces, we prefer to prescribe Invisalign to patients if they want the most discreet way to align their bite.
However, if you prefer a sort of hybrid approach, Orthobar has you covered as we offer Symetri™ Clear Advanced Aesthetic Braces that use tooth-colored brackets that blend in with your smile.
The Best Option for Required Maintenance: Invisalign
We install state-of-the-art Damon Ultima braces at Orthobar, which are easier to maintain than other metal braces.
On the other hand, removable Invisalign clear aligners are more simple to clean.
You don’t need to change your toothbrushing and flossing routine (as long as you’re following ADA guidelines), and you don’t need to change your diet when wearing them.
For these reasons, we suggest Invisalign if you want to spend less time cleaning your orthodontic appliances during treatment.
The Easiest Option to Keep Up With: Braces
One downside of Invisalign clear aligners is also what makes them great — they’re removable.
Since you can take clear aligners out of your mouth, you must pay attention to how long you (or your child receiving treatment) wear them daily. It’s all about compliance! With braces, you don’t have the option to remove them!
The typical recommended time is 20+ hours a day, and treatment won’t be as effective if you forget to put them back in after meals or teeth cleanings, or worse, lose them.
We think braces are the clear winner if you don’t want to worry about interrupted treatment caused by unfollowed directions.
The Best Option for Treatment Time: Tie
When comparing how fast braces and Invisalign straighten teeth, it’s a case-by-case situation.
Everyone’s bite is different, meaning you may wind up spending more or less time on your orthodontic treatment depending on how much correction is needed.
Generally speaking, you should expect 14-18 months in either Invisalign aligners or Damon Ultima braces.
The Best Option for Younger Patients: Tie
You must keep track of clear aligners and take them out every time you eat, drink something besides water, or brush your teeth.
This extra attention to detail may mean younger patients may need to be more responsible for Invisalign.
We typically recommend braces for children because they are easier to wear and have less to keep track of than Invisalign. However, if you and your young one prefer to stick with clear aligners, we offer Invisalign First for ages as young as seven!
The Best Option for Teens or Adults: Tie
Barring situations like an overly complex alignment issue, we usually leave it up to the patient to choose between Invisalign or braces for responsible teens and adults.
Parents, you know your kids better than anyone, so your teen is welcome to opt for Invisalign if you think your teen can handle the responsibility (and the treatment fits your budget).
Do Orthodontists Prefer Braces Over Invisalign?
The answer to the “should you choose braces or Invisalign debate” is… it depends!
There are many factors to consider when choosing between the two, like budget, discretion, patient age, etc. However, that decision is always on a case-by-case basis.
At Orthobar, we want you to choose the orthodontic treatment that meets your unique needs and ultimately gives you the best smile possible!
“At the end of the day, each patient is an individual with different wants and needs. We have the ability to customize their treatment to their goals, wants, and wishes! Our goal remains the same for everyone: deliver high quality service and treatments!” Dr. Brady Petersen; Owner, Partner – Orthobar
Orthobar Can Help You Choose!
Still trying to decide whether you want to go with Invisalign or braces? No worries!
Our skilled orthodontic team is here to guide you on your orthodontic journey and explain things in a way that helps you make an informed decision.
Book a free consultation with Dr. Petersen or Dr. Grahl to learn whether braces or Invisalign is the best choice for you!
