Is Invisalign Worth the Cost?

orthodontist-287285_640When it comes to investing in your teeth, the cost of dental procedures can be daunting. Many procedures, such as braces, are a large investment that can end up costing thousands of dollars. When it comes to correcting the alignment of your teeth, Invisalign comes at a similar, but slightly higher cost than traditional braces, which brings up the question: is Invisalign worth the added investment?  Woodbridge dentist Dr. Taheri offers some insight to help you decide.

Traditional braces are constructed of metal wires and brackets attached to the teeth that are gradually tightened to adjust the bite and alignment over time. The process is monitored closely by a dentist to ensure that the procedure goes smoothly and the braces cause minimal damage on the teeth.

However, we all can remember back to our days in middle school and the metallic smiles of our classmates. Metal braces, while slightly cheaper than Invisalign, are unsightly, and bulky. The frames themselves are attached to the teeth with cement to ensure their movement, which can cause slight enamel damage to the teeth over time. On top of this, brushing and flossing with traditional braces can be a challenge, often leading to yellowed, poorly-cared for teeth.

After the braces are removed, a retainer may be required to prevent further shifting of the teeth, and whitening treatments may be needed to remove the stains left behind by the braces themselves. Along with all of this, traditional metal braces are prone to losing their wires, causing irritation to the walls of the mouth and potentially damaging the patient’s gums in the process. While traditional braces typically cost $2,000 less than Invisalign, they pose their own set of issues down the road.

Invisalign braces are made up of a series of clear retainers specially fitted to gradually move the teeth into their optimal position. They can be used for minor or more serious tooth adjustments, and as such the price of the treatment depends on the severity of the tooth misalignment. On average, Invisalign braces cost between $3,500 and $8,000 dollars, depending on the dentist who is prescribing the treatment and the severity of the tooth misalignment.

While this seems like a daunting price at first, it is important to note that many insurance companies cover Invisalign braces at the same levels as metal braces, which can significantly cut down the cost of the treatment depending on your insurance plan. On top of this, Invisalign braces are much less damaging to the surface of the teeth, as they are simply a clear retainer worn through a majority of the day. Unlike metal braces, Invisalign does not interfere with normal brushing and flossing routines, leading to cleaner, more consistent dental hygiene.  And like the name implies, Invisalign is almost completely invisible, meaning they are perfect for adults who wish to adjust their teeth without interfering with their smile.

As with any dental procedure, it is important to consult your dentist to see if the treatment is right for you, as well as to discuss potential costs and concerns about the treatment itself. While Invisalign is slightly more pricey than traditional braces, it comes with its own set of benefits that may be worth the investment in the long run.

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