Millions of Americans suffer from having crooked or crowded teeth. Although the traditional treatment for correcting this orthodontic problem has for years been braces, there is a good alternative to traditional wire braces: Invisalign. Invisalign is a clear set of plastic aligners, also referred to as trays, that are meant to straighten your teeth so that you can ultimately enjoy a more beautiful smile. It is worth learning more about this dental product if you are considering it if you have crooked or crowded teeth.
Invisalign Cost and Pricing
One of the biggest questions people have in regard to the option of clear plastic aligners is: Is Invisalign cheaper than braces? Generally, no, they aren’t cheaper. On the average, the Invisalign price ranges from $3,500 to $5,000. However, they are an excellent alternative to braces and can give you even better results overall. For example, with regular braces, you are limited in terms of how well you can clean your teeth and eliminate excess food particles to prevent the development of gum disease. This is because braces are made up of metal wires and brackets that prevent your toothbrush and floss from getting everywhere, particularly between the teeth. In turn, this can result in the buildup of bacteria and eventually plaque, which can be a breeding ground for periodontal disease.
With the set of clear aligners, you have a great deal more freedom. You can easily remove them for eating, brushing your teeth and flossing, which means you don’t have to worry about getting food particles stuck and can practice better oral hygiene as a whole. Aside from that, you leave them in your mouth 23 hours per day so that they can shift your teeth into proper position.
Why Invisalign?
Another notable difference between clear plastic aligners and traditional metallic braces is that aligners are extremely comfortable to use. This is because they are made from plastic and don’t include any metal or brackets like braces. As a result, you can feel more comfortable and don’t have to suffer from nicks, cuts or irritation that traditional braces typically cause.
The total treatment time is also different for the two options. With standard metal braces, you would have to wear them for an average of two years depending on your particular situation. The aligners are usually worn for six to 18 months. Each teeth straightening option requires regular visits to the orthodontist for adjustments. With braces, you are required to come in once per month. However, Invisalign has special the requirement of the aligner trays being changed every two weeks. Afterward, visits should take place every four to six weeks.
Overall, Invisalign is a great option for straightening your teeth. They definitely offer great benefits you cannot get from braces. It’s wise to discuss your options with 3V Dental today!
