Straightening your teeth marks a significant milestone in your journey toward a healthier smile and improved confidence. The benefits of orthodontic treatment are so significant that nearly 4 million Americans wear braces or aligners at any given time, with more adults than ever before opting into treatment. Standing at the crossroads between Invisalign and traditional braces can feel overwhelming. Both options promise straighter teeth, but how does one choose the option that will work best for your unique situation?

The differences between these treatments extend beyond mere aesthetics; they involve considerations about lifestyle, treatment time, cost, and effectiveness. 

Read on to learn everything you need to know about Invisalign and braces from the best orthodontist in Beverly Hills and discover how to make the right choice for your smile goals and daily life.

Top Five Questions People Have When Deciding Between Invisalign and Traditional Metal Braces

Choosing between clear aligners and traditional braces is a big decision. These are the most common questions our patients looking for invisible braces in Beverly Hills ask before committing to their orthodontic journey. 

1. Invisalign vs. Braces: Which One Works Better? 

Invisalign works well for mild to moderate problems like: 

  • Simple teeth crowding
  • Small gaps between the teeth 
  • Mild bite misalignments, including some overbites, underbites, and crossbites 

However, traditional braces generally perform better for severe alignment issues, significant bite corrections, or complex tooth movements. During a consultation, an orthodontist will examine your bite and teeth for all these factors and the severity of your orthodontic needs. Both treatments can be effective, but the right choice varies based on your unique dental situation.

2. How Much Does Invisalign Cost Compared to Regular Braces?

Cost is typically a major factor when choosing between orthodontic treatments. Traditional metal braces generally range from a couple of thousand to a few thousand dollars, while Invisalign usually costs slightly more. This price difference exists because Invisalign's clear aligner technology and customized treatment planning involve additional costs. 

Insurance coverage varies significantly between providers, with some dental insurance plans covering both options equally, while others may provide less coverage for Invisalign because they classify it as a cosmetic dental treatment. To find your expected out-of-pocket expenses, you'll need to check your specific insurance policy and discuss payment plans with your orthodontist. Most offices offer financing options to make both treatments more affordable.

3. Are Invisalign Aligners Hard to Take Care Of?

While both options create pressure to move teeth that can cause temporary soreness after adjustments, Invisalign's pressure is generally milder and more gradual. The biggest convenience advantage of Invisalign is that you can remove the aligners for eating, drinking anything besides water, brushing, and flossing. This means no food restrictions and easier oral hygiene. 

Braces, however, remain fixed to your teeth 24/7, requiring special cleaning techniques and avoiding certain foods that might damage the brackets or wires. This removability makes Invisalign more convenient for many patients, though it also requires the discipline to wear aligners for the recommended 20 to 22 hours daily to ensure effective treatment.

4. How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?

Treatment time is a top concern for most orthodontic patients. On average, traditional braces typically take 18 to 24 months, while Invisalign treatment ranges from 12 to 18 months, potentially making Invisalign slightly faster for most cases. However, the complexity of your specific dental issues significantly impacts your timeline, regardless of which option you choose. 

Simple alignment problems, such as minor crowding or small gaps, can be corrected in as little as six months with either method. In contrast, severe bite issues, significant rotations, or major spacing problems may require treatment to extend beyond two years. Traditional braces often work more efficiently for complex movements because orthodontists have complete control over adjustments, whereas Invisalign's success partially depends on patient compliance with wearing the aligners consistently. 

5. Invisalign vs. Braces: Which One Requires More Lifestyle Changes?

Comfort and lifestyle factors often influence orthodontic choices. Here are a few things to consider before committing to either treatment: 

  • Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic that typically causes less mouth irritation compared to the metal brackets and wires of traditional braces, which can sometimes create uncomfortable pressure points or minor cuts inside your mouth. 
  • With braces, you'll need to avoid certain foods that might damage your hardware, such as sticky candies, popcorn, and hard or chewy foods. Invisalign users, however, can eat whatever they want after simply removing their aligners before meals. 

Perhaps most importantly for daily life, Invisalign allows for easier brushing and flossing since you can maintain your normal oral hygiene routine without navigating around brackets and wires. This accessibility to proper cleaning helps many Invisalign patients maintain better overall oral health during treatment compared to those with fixed braces.

Finding the Best Orthodontist in Beverly Hills for Invisalign

At West LA Orthodontics, we bring a personalized, detail-driven approach to every smile we treat by taking the time to get to know you, clearly explaining your options, and ensuring you feel supported every step of the way. 

Led by Dr. Jonathan Shouhed, our team is passionate about helping kids, teens, and adults feel confident at every stage of their orthodontic journey. We accomplish this by combining advanced technology with a warm, patient-first philosophy. Whether you're exploring Invisalign, braces, or early orthodontic care, we’ll tailor your treatment plan to fit your goals and lifestyle. 

Ready to get a show-stopping smile with help from the best orthodontist in Beverly Hills?