Having "railroad tracks" was once the only choice of adults and children facing braces on their teeth, but today there are more options. The chief competitor of traditional wire braces is Invisalign, an invisible, removable aligner tray that gets replaced every two to three weeks. But not everyone is a candidate. Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of wire versus Invisalign can make the decision easier.
Appearance
A clear tray or pair of trays that fits the teeth, Invisalign is almost completely invisible. Metal braces, while more subtle than they were 20 years ago, are apparent whenever the mouth is open.
Convenience and Duration
Invisilign braces can be removed for eating and tooth brushing; metal braces are permanent and can be harmed by sticky foods. The wires of traditional braces get broken. However, is possible to lose or damage Invisilign trays, and replacement can be expensive. If you fail to wear them consistently, it will delay their effectiveness.
Comfort
Metal braces can irritate gums, especially after their initial installation or monthly adjustment. Invisilign can be painful when wearers first change to a new tray.
Other Kinds of Braces
Choices besides Invisalign or metal braces include Clear wire, whose see-through brackets and wires are less visible. Behind-the-teeth braces, or lingual, braces, which are completely invisible in the front, are available but considered too costly---up to $5,000 more than other braces---for common usage.
Cost
The Invisalign website quotes the average total cost at $5,000, in 2009. Metal braces range from $4,500 to $6,000. But overbites and severe overcrowding can't be completely corrected by Invisalign and may require subsequent wire braces to finish the job.
Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage for metal and Invisalign braces for children under 18 is available under many dental plans, but most require clients to meet a deductible and pay co-pays.
