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If you need your teeth straightened, you’re likely looking for an option that is fast, affordable, and convenient. While traditional braces are cost-effective, more patients are turning to Invisalign to straighten their smiles. If you are considering correcting your crooked teeth, there are some critical factors to know when you are choosing between Invisalign vs braces.


Invisalign vs Braces: Which Is Better?

Traditional metal braces are known for their ability to straighten teeth and correct issues with bite. They usually need to be worn for 1-2 years, and they are challenging to keep clean. For adults who wish to straighten their teeth, traditional braces are very obvious when they smile. 

Invisalign was developed to address some of these issues and provide a more discreet option for straightening the teeth. Invisalign excels in the areas that traditional braces fall short.

Invisalign uses a series of clear, custom-moulded, plastic polymer trays that are essentially invisible. Some treatments can be completed in just one year. It is important to consider all variables when comparing braces vs Invisalign.

For a more aesthetically pleasing experience, Invisalign is fast becoming the most popular teeth aligning system amongst adults and teens. 


Invisalign vs Braces – Are You Eligible?

Invisalign is not the best choice for everyone. People with more complex orthodontic issues may need traditional metal brackets to correct teeth with differing heights or large gaps.

Invisalign can correct a vast majority of orthodontic problems, including underbites, crowding, small gaps, and overbites. 


Invisalign vs Braces – Biggest Differences

The most notable differences between braces and Invisalign are those of functionality and comfort. Traditional braces, once placed on the teeth, do not come off for the length of treatment. 

This does have benefits for parents of children or teenagers who need braces, as they won’t have to worry about their children forgetting to wear the aligners or losing them.

In contrast, Invisalign is a removable aligner, which gets removed each time you eat, drink anything besides water, or need to clean your teeth.

However, these aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours each day, which can be difficult for some patients to remember. 

Traditional braces are typically made out of metal wires and brackets, and they are glued in place onto your teeth. This can present a lot of discomfort for the patient. A typical checkup includes any tightening or adjustments that the braces might need, which may feel extremely uncomfortable for several days after the adjustment.

While Invisalign is engineered to straighten your teeth, it is a simpler technology made of mixed soft plastics. While you will still feel the initial tightness and pull on your mouth and jaw as you would with braces, there will be no poking or scratching of the gums and mouth by the metal brackets. Most patients experience slight discomfort in the first few days of switching to their next custom trays.


Invisalign vs Braces – Comparing The Cost

When comparing Invisalign vs braces and the cost of each treatment, there are a few factors to consider. Some of these include the complexity of your case and how long your treatment will be. Other factors include if you have insurance and if insurance covers part or all of your treatment.

The average cost of braces in Australia ranges anywhere from $5,000-$8,500, while the average cost of a full Invisalign treatment is around $6,000-$9,000. You may qualify for deductions or savings through your insurance plan even if they don’t cover the full cost. 


Braces vs Invisalign – Length of Treatment

On average, most people can expect to wear their Invisalign anywhere from six months to two years, as long as they follow the treatment plan given to them by their dentist. Invisalign suggests that the average is between 12 and 18 months. 

Similarly, braces can take 16-18 months on average, while 24 months and sometimes longer is not unusual for the length of treatment. Take caution with anyone who tells you your braces treatment will take six months or less. These treatment lengths typically refer to front teeth adjustments, rather than more extensive alignment. Length of treatment with braces and Invisalign is entirely relative to each individual.


Final Thoughts

Lotus Smiles Dental in Sunbury is here to discuss the best options to fit your lifestyle and budget. We are a certified provider of Invisalign treatment and conveniently offer this orthodontic solution here in our practice. 

If you are unsure of whether you should get traditional braces or Invisalign, or just want to get more information about the options, contact our practice today on (03) 8737 9359 and set up an appointment with one of our friendly professional dentists. We look forward to working with you.