To the children that spend their time reading, to the children that spend their time playing sports, to the children that spend their time running around outside and having fun: you’re unique and your orthodontic treatment should be too! Orthodontic treatment is a growingly common trend among adolescents, and with the increasing number of people being treated, more options have opened up to fit a variety of patient’s needs. So Mothers everywhere are now being challenged with the question: “Should my child get braces or Invisalign?”

Both Braces and Invisalign are meant to improve oral health and straighten teeth, but each device goes about treatment in different ways to best fit each patient. While some patients may feel some discomfort due to the wires in braces, others may be too forgetful to keep the invisible trays in for at least 22 hours. So, the decision to choose between braces and Invisalign lies with the patient’s everyday needs and lifestyle.

Users that choose to go with braces will have metal brackets attached to their teeth connected with wires and rubber bands. They’ll be able to choose whether or not they want color on their brackets as well! Treatment with braces typically takes an average of 2 consecutive years depending on the patient and they cost ranging from $1,800-$5,500 total. They’ll have less responsibility with the maintenance of the braces and will not have to keep up removing anything and are better suited for my complex cases such as an overbite, crowding, or major dental issues. Some, however, may experience pain or discomfort from the braces.

Users that choose to go with Invisalign will have a clear and removable tray that molds to their teeth. They’ll have the freedom to remove the tray as needed and have the cosmetic advantage with the invisible-tray. Treatment with Invisalign lasts around 6-18 months wearing the trays for 22-24 hours a day depending on the patient and costs an average of $5,000. Patients must be very responsible with keeping the trays in for optimum treatment, and may need to be more meticulous with cleaning their teeth and the trays.

When thinking about which treatment is best for your child, it’s important to ask yourself these questions regarding their needs:

• What’s my price range for treatment?
• How fast would I like treatment to take place, and how much time will I have to visit the orthodontist for regular checkups?
• How responsible will my child be with keeping up with each treatment’s specifications (keeping removable trays in, completing cleaning steps, and remembering to eat certain foods)?
• How much pain will my child experience while undergoing treatment?
• How complex is the end goal I want to achieve for my child?

After asking these questions, and considering what treatment best aligns with the child’s needs and lifestyle, it’ll be easier to choose between Braces and Invisalign in Raleigh.