Oral Health Resources | 07 March, 2025

Is Invisalign Faster Than Braces?

Thinking about straightening your smile and not sure which treatment option to choose? Invisalign and Braces are both popular options for teeth straightening, and they both offer plenty of benefits. While Invisalign and Braces have many similarities there are also a few differences between the treatment options including the treatment length.

How Do Braces and Invisalign Work?

Braces consist of brackets and wires attached to your teeth that work to straighten your teeth over time. Your orthodontist tightens the wires in your braces during your treatment to gradually move your teeth into the desired position.

Invisalign works to straighten your teeth using a series of clear plastic aligners custom made to fit your teeth. Invisalign aligners apply gentle pressure to move your teeth into the desired position. Invisalign aligners are removable offering more flexibility than Braces.

Invisalign vs. Braces: Which Is Faster?

The length of treatment for both Invisalign and Braces differs depending on the difficulty of the orthodontic issue you need to address.

Invisalign is usually faster than Braces, particularly for mild to moderate issues. Invisalign treatment normally ranges from as little as 6 months to 24 months, depending on your individual needs and how well you follow your treatment plan. Since removable aligners are used, treatment usually requires less visits to your dentist or orthodontist.

Braces treatment is recommended for more severe misalignment and complex orthodontic issues.For complex issues, treatment will take longer. Braces treatment typically takes around 18 to 24 months, however, can be longer for more difficult cases.

How Much Is Invisalign Compared to Braces?

The price of Invisalign and Braces varies depending on the complexity of your oral health problem and what is required to address your specific needs. Braces treatment normally ranges from $4,000 to $10,000.

Invisalign typically costs between $3,500 and $8,000, depending on the type of Invisalign and the duration of treatment. If you need more aligner sets, the price may increase, and the treatment time will likely be longer. We recommend discussing price with your dentist or orthodontist at your consultation to get a clearer understanding of the cost breakdown based on your unique requirements.

Which Is More Effective: Braces or Invisalign?

When it comes to straightening your teeth both Braces and Invisalign are very effective treatment options and can both help in treating a variety of orthodontic problems. Your orthodontist or dentist will determine the best treatment option for you at your consultation appointment.

Invisalign is a great option for mild to moderate orthodontic issues including gaps between your teeth. They’re more comfortable and often the preferred treatment option because they’re a lot less noticeable than Braces. For more difficult and complex orthodontic issues Braces might be the recommended option for you. Braces are very effective for more severe misalignment.

FAQs

Which is faster, regular braces or Invisalign?

For mild to moderate problems Invisalign is normally faster than braces. For more complex issues Braces may be recommended as treatment will be more effective and faster than Invisalign.

Do teeth move faster with braces or Invisalign?

Braces can often move teeth faster for severe alignment issues due to the constant pressure they apply. While Invisalign generally works more gradually. However, for less complex cases, Invisalign may deliver faster results.

Is Invisalign more painful than braces?

No, Invisalign is a more comfortable alternative to braces. Invisalign aligners are removable and apply gentle pressure during your treatment. Braces can cause some irritation or discomfort as the brackets and wires can rub against your gums.

How to make Invisalign work faster?

To make your treatment with Invisalign aligners faster you should follow the guidelines from your dentist or orthodontist, avoid missing any appointments and wear your aligners for 20-22 hours a day, only removing to eat and drink.

Does Invisalign work faster than traditional braces?

For patients with mild to moderate cases, Invisalign can be faster than traditional braces due to the custom fit of your aligners and less visits to your orthodontist.

Keen to take the next step to your straighter smile? Schedule an Invisalign consultation with Lumino today and get advice!