If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, you may be wondering whether regular braces or Invisalign is the more cost-effective option. Braces and Invisalign have become increasingly popular for straightening teeth and improving bite function. However, finding the best, most cost-effective option can be tough without understanding the relevant information.
This article provides insight into the cost differences between regular braces and Invisalign, cheaper alternatives, and other pertinent information worth knowing before making treatment decisions. With this comprehensive analysis, teeth-straightening solutions become more accessible to those seeking positive changes without breaking the bank.
So, are regular braces cheaper than Invisalign? Read on to discover the answer to this common question and more.
Cost of Braces
The cost of braces can be a significant factor to consider when deciding on an orthodontic treatment option. It is important to keep in mind that the type of braces selected can impact the total cost.
Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and tend to be the most affordable option for patients, ranging from $2,500 to $7,000 for treatment. Clear braces, on the other hand, are a more discreet option that uses tooth-colored ceramic brackets but can cost between $4,000 to $8,000. Lingual braces are a unique option that is attached to the back of the teeth, making them virtually invisible; this treatment option tends to be the most expensive with an average cost ranging from $5,000 to $7,000.
Each option provides different levels of comfort and will require varying appointments for adjustments throughout treatment; however, the cost may also be affected depending on which type is chosen.
When it comes to improving your smile, there are many factors at play, not least of which is budget. Different treatments have varied costs associated with them and must be carefully weighed up before settling on the best option for you.
However, the price of the treatment is not always the only driving force, some individuals may prioritize an aesthetic solution that delivers fast results and others may prefer longer-term treatments even if they ultimately turn out to be more expensive. Weighing up all these options, patients will decide on their preferred dental care plan accordingly.
See our article: How Much Is Single Arch Orthodontic Treatment?
Cost of Invisalign
Invisalign is an excellent choice for those looking to align their teeth without the aid of braces. This is largely due to its near-invisible appearance and ability to be removed when brushing or eating, however, this comes at a certain cost.
The development of Invisalign’s custom-designed aligners requires an in-depth mapping of each mouth utilizing 3D imaging technologies, which can represent a large part of the total cost. Additionally, these incredibly precise clear aligners are made from a specialized resin that must hold up to the pressures created by movement and shifting teeth, further adding to the expense.
Also, orthodontic fees associated with connecting an orthodontist’s expertise with the development and treatment plan add another layer of cost to Invisalign’s total price tag.
Invisalign is popular due to its aesthetic appearance for patients but will cost you more than traditional braces overall. The cost of this treatment can be anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000 for treatment, depending on the level of severity and duration of the treatment needed.
If aesthetics are an important part of treatment it is certainly worth looking at clear aligners in more detail and also researching to see what other options are available that work in a similar way to Invisalign but at much less cost.
See our article: Can I Switch from Braces to Invisalign Mid Treatment?
Cheaper Alternatives – Clear Aligners
While Invisalign is a popular clear aligner option, it’s not the only one. Many other aligner brands are changing the way people straighten their teeth by allowing individuals to order their aligners from home.
Unlike Invisalign where you have to visit an orthodontist for special X-Rays and information about your condition, these brands allow you to capture your teeth impressions through at-home kits or a local store and create a customized plan afterward using 3D computer imaging software.
See our article: Can Dental Impressions Pull Teeth Out?
Once the plan is approved by a dentist or orthodontist that’s associated with the product, you’ll get your aligners shipped right to you without ever having to step foot into a doctor’s office.
An article from Healthline states that clear aligners must be worn for 22 hours a day and removed when eating and brushing teeth. Aligners can be used to treat minor-to-moderate conditions.
These other clear aligner brands offer high-quality products for a fraction of the price of Invisalign but offer similar treatment results. Here are some of the best alternative options:
AlignerCo – The most budget-friendly at-home aligner brand offering a treatment plan for as little as $945. They offer a monthly payment plan too which is cheaper and shorter in duration than other aligner brands. AlignerCo is a cheap alternative to braces and Invisalign.
SmileDirectClub – The most well-known at-home aligner provider. This brand offers aligner treatment from around $2,000 which includes a free one-time replacement if you break or lose your aligner. All purchases also come with their Lifetime Smile Guarantee.
NewSmile – This brand offers a very competitive treatment cost which is around $1,500 and comes with free whitening foam and retainers. They also offer a monthly payment plan that requires no down payment.
Candid – One of the few alternative aligner brands that offer a hybrid model like Invisalign, Candid aligners cost around $1,900 per treatment, and as Invisalign treatment must start with the agreement of an orthodontist. No monthly orthodontist in-office appointments are required after this initial one.
Byte – This is another well-known brand in the at-home aligner market with treatment costing just under $2,000. This brand offers the Byte for Life Guarantee which means if your teeth move after treatment they will give you additional impression kits, aligners, and more, at no extra cost.
How Can Clear Aligners be Cheaper than Braces?
One of the primary reasons that clear aligners can be cheaper than traditional braces is the manufacturing process. Clear aligners are made using advanced computer technology, which allows for precise and accurate measurements of the patient’s teeth. This computer technology helps to reduce production costs, as there is less manual labor involved in the process. Additionally, clear aligners are typically easier and quicker to manufacture than traditional braces, which are often made by hand. This means that orthodontists can offer clear aligners at a lower price point compared to braces.
Another factor that contributes to the lower cost of clear aligners is the reduced number of appointments required for treatment. With traditional braces, patients typically need to visit the orthodontist every four to six weeks to have adjustments made to the wires and brackets. In contrast, clear aligners only require occasional check-ins to ensure that the aligners are fitting properly. This reduces the amount of time and money spent on office visits, making clear aligners a more cost-effective option.
Finally, clear aligners may require less treatment time than traditional braces. While the length of treatment will depend on the complexity of the case, clear aligners can often achieve the desired results in a shorter amount of time than braces. This reduced treatment time can lead to a lower overall cost for patients seeking orthodontic treatment.
In conclusion, while the cost of clear aligners may vary depending on the individual case, they can often be a more affordable option for those seeking orthodontic treatment. The use of advanced computer technology in the manufacturing process, the reduced number of appointments required, and the potential for shorter treatment times are all factors that contribute to the lower cost of clear aligners compared to traditional braces.
See our article: Ways to Save Money on Aligners.
Choose the Right Orthodontic Treatment
When deciding how to treat your teeth, price is certainly a factor; however, it shouldn’t be the only thing you consider.
While regular braces are cheaper than Invisalign in most cases, they don’t offer an aesthetically pleasing result. Striking a balance between affordability and appearance should carefully be taken into account when selecting which route works best for you.
If you’re looking to straighten your teeth and don’t want the aesthetic impact of traditional braces, clear or lingual options may be right for more severe cases. Alternatively, if issues are milder Invisalign, and other aligner brands offer effective results at a lower cost.
Invisalign may be the most well-known choice on the market, but you can save big and enjoy excellent results when opting for a different aligner provider such as Smile Direct Club, or Byte and enjoy a treatment plan with less hassle too.
