Choosing the best method for straightening you or your child's teeth can be overwhelming.
The treatment will likely be a large investment, and since it lasts for many months, and in some cases years, you want to make the right choice that is going to make those months run smoothly for you or your child.
One of the first things you need to decide is whether you are going to use traditional hardwire braces or Invisalign trays.
There are positive and negative points to each treatment, so it is important to evaluate each and carefully consider which is best for you.
What’s the Difference Between Invisalign and Metal Braces?
Braces: Braces are composed of metal brackets that are cemented to your teeth with a special dental glue. These brackets hold a wire that attaches to the brackets with rubber bands.
Invisalign: While getting treated with Invisalign, your dentist will give you a series of invisible aligner trays made of BPA-free clear plastic. Using X-rays and impressions to form a 3-D image of your teeth, your dentist will create a treatment plan to shift your smile into alignment.
Pros and Cons of Metal Braces and Invisalign
Metal Braces
Pros
- Less self-discipline is needed since they cannot be removed. This is a major reason why metal braces are often preferred for treating children.
Cons
- While you have braces, it is important to be careful about what you eat. Certain foods can damage your braces or get caught in them.
- It can be difficult to brush and floss around braces. Unlike Invisalign trays, braces cannot be removed.
- Braces can present a hazard during certain activities, such as rough contact sports.
- The brackets, bands, or metal wires may rub against sensitive gum tissue and cause discomfort.
- Depending on the case, hardwire braces can cost up to $5,500.
- Treatment with braces tends to take longer than Invisalign. The average treatment time is approximately two years.
- Patients may need to visit the orthodontist every three to six weeks for adjustments.
Invisalign
Pros
- The aligner trays are designed to be as close to invisible as possible.
- The trays are removable, making it easier to brush your teeth.
- There are no wires, brackets, or bands to cause discomfort.
- Treatment may be shorter, typically lasting approximately 6 to 18 months.
- After the beginning stages, office visits may only be required every two to three months.
- Invisalign avoids or minimizes many of the side effects associated with traditional braces.
- Invisalign Express is listed at $2,399, while full Invisalign treatment is listed at $3,279. The page states that Invisalign treatment at other practices may cost between $5,500 and $7,000.
Cons
- Invisalign may not be appropriate for children or patients who lack the discipline to keep their trays in.
- If the aligners are not worn consistently, treatment may not work effectively.
Does Invisalign Sound Like a Good Choice for You?
These advantages and disadvantages can help you consider which treatment may be appropriate, but only a dental professional can provide a definitive recommendation.
If you think you may be a suitable candidate for Invisalign, contact the office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bagnall.
Dr. Bagnall will discuss your treatment options and use his professional judgment to determine whether Invisalign is appropriate for you.
To schedule an appointment, contact the office online or call (978) 475-3997.
An All-Inclusive Deal With No Hidden Fees
The practice lists an all-inclusive Invisalign price of $3,279 with no hidden fees. The price includes:
- Initial consultation
- All treatment visits
- Complete Invisalign treatment
- X-rays
- Photographs
- Digital scanning or impressions
- Any necessary corrections
- A complimentary set of retainers
The practice is located on the second floor at 16 Haverhill St., Suite A, Andover, MA 01810.