Braces for Adults vs Invisalign: Costs and Benefits Explained

1 Jan 2023

Considering braces as an adult? You’re not alone. Today, around 1 in 4 orthodontic patients are adults choosing to improve their smile, oral health, and confidence.

One of the biggest decisions is whether to choose traditional braces or Invisalign. Each option comes with different costs, benefits, and lifestyle considerations.

In this guide, we break down how much braces cost for adults, compare braces vs Invisalign, and help you choose the best option for your needs and budget.

Why More Adults Are Getting Braces

The American Association of Orthodontists estimates that about 25% of orthodontic patients are adults, which has steadily increased over the last few decades.

So, why are so many adults seeking orthodontic treatment?

Longevity of Teeth

Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean and maintain. This reduces the risk of plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, helping your teeth last a lifetime.

Health Benefits

Gum Disease: Misaligned teeth can create hard-to-reach areas, increasing the risk of periodontal disease (gum disease), which has been linked to other systemic health problems.
Tooth Wear: An improper bite can cause excessive wear and tear on your teeth, leading to pain and potential damage.
Jaw Pain (TMJ): Misalignment can contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can cause jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing.

Aesthetics and Confidence

A confident smile can have a profound impact on your life. It can boost self-esteem, improve social interactions, and even enhance career prospects. When you feel good about your smile, it shows!

Many adults seek orthodontic treatment to correct imperfections that have bothered them for years, significantly improving their quality of life.

Correcting Relapse

Even with previous orthodontic treatment, teeth can shift over time due to natural aging processes. Adult orthodontics can effectively correct this “orthodontic relapse” and restore your smile.

Pre-Prosthetic Orthodontics

Adult braces are sometimes used to prepare the mouth for other restorative dental procedures, such as dental implants or bridges, ensuring the best possible outcome.

What Are the Best Braces for Adults?

At Greenspoint Dental, we offer a variety of orthodontic options to meet the diverse needs and preferences of our adult patients:

Traditional Metal Braces

Metal braces consist of stainless steel brackets and wires bonded to the front of your teeth. The archwire applies gentle pressure to move your teeth into alignment gradually. The elastic ligatures that hold the archwire in place can be colored, allowing for some personalization.

Pros:

Strongest and most effective for correcting complex orthodontic issues.
Generally, the most affordable orthodontic option.

Cons:

The most visible type of braces.

The typical treatment duration is 18 months to 3 years.

General Cost: Most affordable

Ceramic Braces

These braces function similarly to traditional metal braces but utilize tooth-colored or clear brackets, making them less noticeable.

Pros:

Less visible than metal braces, blending in with your natural tooth color.

Cons:

The brackets can be more fragile than metal brackets.
They may be slightly more expensive than traditional braces.
Elastic ties can stain over time.

Typical treatment duration is 18 months to 3 years.

General Cost: Mid-range

Lingual Braces

These are metal braces placed on your teeth’ inside (lingual side), making them virtually invisible from the outside.

Pros:

The most discreet type of braces.

Cons:

Generally, the most expensive orthodontic option.
It can be more challenging to clean.
It may initially affect speech and cause tongue irritation.
Not all orthodontists are trained to place them.

The typical treatment duration is 2 to 3 years.

General Cost: Premium

Clear Aligners (Invisalign)

Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear, removable aligners to move your teeth gradually. These aligners are made of smooth, comfortable plastic that is virtually invisible when worn.

Pros:

Nearly invisible, offering a discreet way to straighten your teeth.
Removable for eating, brushing, and flossing, allowing for greater convenience and better oral hygiene.
Often more comfortable than traditional braces, with less irritation to the gums and cheeks.

Cons:

Patient compliance is crucial; aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours daily for effective treatment.
It may not be suitable for all complex orthodontic cases.
It can be more expensive than traditional braces in some cases.

The typical treatment duration is 12 to 24 months.

General Cost: Mid to Premium

Learn more about Invisalign braces at Greenspoint Dental.

Adult Braces vs Invisalign Cost

The cost of braces treatment is a significant consideration for many adults. It’s important to understand that the final cost of your treatment will vary depending on several factors:

Complexity of your case: More extensive tooth movement requires more time and resources, affecting the cost.
Treatment duration: The longer your treatment, the higher the overall cost.
Type of appliance: As outlined above, different braces and Invisalign have varying costs due to materials, laboratory fees, and orthodontist expertise.
Location: Dental costs can vary slightly depending on your geographic location.

To give you a general idea:

Traditional Metal Braces: $3,000 – $7,000
Ceramic Braces: $4,000 – $8,000
Lingual Braces: $8,000 – $15,000+
Invisalign: $3,500 – $8,000

Important Note: These are estimates only. The best way to determine the exact cost of your treatment is to schedule a consultation with our orthodontist at Greenspoint Dental. We will provide a personalized treatment plan and a detailed cost estimate.

Financing Options

At Greenspoint Dental, we are committed to making orthodontic care affordable. We offer a range of financing options to help you fit treatment into your budget:

Flexible Payment Plans: We offer in-house payment plans that allow you to spread the cost of treatment over several months.
Insurance Acceptance: We accept most major dental insurance plans.
Third-Party Financing: We work with third-party financing companies offering low-interest healthcare expenses loans.

Insurance

Many dental insurance plans offer some level of coverage for orthodontic treatment. However, coverage varies significantly. We recommend that you:

Contact your insurance provider directly: Inquire about your “orthodontic benefits” and any limitations or exclusions.
Our team can help: Our knowledgeable administrative team can assist you in understanding your insurance benefits and submitting claims.

Is Getting Orthodontic Treatment Worth It as an Adult?

Absolutely! Orthodontic treatment at any age is an investment in yourself, offering numerous benefits:

Improved Oral Health: Straighter teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bone loss.
Enhanced Function: Correcting misalignments can improve chewing, speech, and reduce jaw pain.
Greater Confidence: A beautiful, straight smile can boost self-esteem and positively impact your personal and professional life.
Long-Term Value: Investing in orthodontics can prevent more extensive and costly dental problems in the future.

We understand that adults may have some reservations about orthodontic treatment. Let’s address some common concerns:

“Am I too old?” There’s no age limit for orthodontic treatment as long as your gums and supporting bone are healthy.
“Will it take too long?” While adult treatment may take slightly longer than adolescent treatment, the long-term benefits are well worth the time invested.
“Is it too expensive?” We offer various financing options to make treatment affordable, and consider it an investment in your long-term health and well-being.
“Will it be uncomfortable?” Modern orthodontic techniques and materials are designed to minimize discomfort. Any soreness is usually temporary and easily managed.

Greenspoint Dental’s Commitment to Adult Orthodontics

At Greenspoint Dental, we combine expertise, advanced technology, and a patient-centered approach to provide exceptional orthodontic care for adults.

Our experienced orthodontists are dedicated to creating personalized treatment plans that meet your unique needs and goals.
We utilize state-of-the-art technology for accurate diagnosis and efficient treatment.
We offer a full range of orthodontic options, including traditional braces and Invisalign, ensuring you can access the best smile solution.
We prioritize open communication, ensuring you are informed and comfortable throughout your orthodontic journey.

Start Your Journey to a Confident Smile Today!

It’s never too late to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

Schedule a consultation with our orthodontic team in Houston, Texas, to discuss your options and take the first step towards a healthier, more confident you.