If you’re interested in orthodontics at Rio Vista Family Dentistry, you may be wondering which treatment option best suits your needs and budget. At our office, our doctors offer a variety of orthodontic treatments, including both Invisalign and traditional metal braces. Here are a few factors to consider when looking into your options for a straighter smile:
Affordability: How Much Do Invisalign & Braces Cost?
The cost of Invisalign and braces is usually about the same, though this may vary depending on your specific orthodontic needs. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to give a clear answer about which treatment is more affordable unless you come into our office for a consultation with one of our doctors. Based on your exam and smile assessment, she will give you an informed, accurate quote regarding the cost of your orthodontic treatment to help you choose the option that’s right for your needs.
Results: What Can I Expect from Invisalign & Braces?
If you are a candidate for both Invisalign or traditional braces, you can expect each treatment to offer the same results when it comes to mild-to-moderate orthodontic issues. For patients without major orthodontic problems, Invisalign is equally as effective at treating most issues like gaps, crooked and crowded teeth.
However, this is not the case if you have serious orthodontic problems. If your teeth are very crooked or crowded or you have a major overbite or underbite, traditional metal braces will often offer better results. Invisalign is more limited when it comes to treating these types of conditions, and will not be suitable for your orthodontic treatment.
Treatment Time: Which Is Faster, Invisalign or Braces?
If you qualify for both Invisalign and traditional metal braces, Invisalign will usually be a faster option. Most patients require somewhere between 20-24 sets of aligners to complete their Invisalign treatment. Each set of aligners is worn for about 2 weeks, so this puts the average treatment time at about a year.
Traditional braces usually require at least 12-18 months of treatment, though this does vary based on the patient. In some cases, braces may be about as fast as Invisalign. For more severe orthodontic issues that can’t be treated with Invisalign, braces usually must be worn for 2-3 years.
Which Treatment Is Right For Me? Book a Visit!
Both Invisalign and traditional metal braces each have their own unique benefits. While Invisalign is a great way to correct most orthodontic problems, it’s not always the right choice for patients who have seriously crooked teeth or a bad bite.
The best way to find out is with an appointment at Rio Vista Family Dentistry. Your doctor will examine your mouth, determine if you’re a good candidate for orthodontic treatment, and explain all of your options in-depth. Contact us now at (619) 299-1122 to make your appointment, or come by our office at 8590 Rio San Diego Drive, Suite 110, San Diego, CA 92108.
