Braces versus Invisalign?

Question

My son needs to get braces. He has bucked front teeth. I was wondering about the pros and cons of braces versus Invisalign? I've never worn braces myself, so I don't know what they're like. Have any of you tried Invisalign and do they work as well as braces, in your opinion? Anyone tried them with bucked teeth? What about the cost difference? How much did you pay for your braces or Invisalign? Also, do you have to wait for all of your permanent teeth to be in before you get braces or Invisalign, or can it be done while he still has some baby teeth? (The bucked teeth are his permanent teeth, though). Thanks.

Answer 1

Wikipedia has a decent pro-and-con on Invisalign:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Invisalign

Total cost of my orthodontia twenty years ago: CDN$3,000. I am _extremely_ grateful to my parents...

I had the usual sort of braces -- that was it for options back then. They weren't a bother; didn't hurt to get them tightened, which is about the only complaint I've heard.

I found the removable orthodontic appliances to be something of a hassle. Taking them out for lunch at school was not fun. Given that, and that the only real advantage of Invisalign seems to be cosmetic, I'd give them a pass for a kid (just think of the cost of replacement if he loses them...). Great for adults, but braces look entirely normal on young people.

I _think_ I started orthodontic what-not before I had all my adult teeth. Grade four or thereabouts; quite early.

If the problem is more an overbite (which is what I had) than buck teeth, other things -- like the dreaded headgear, which I also had -- might be worth looking in to.

NB: there is a 'Dental' section on here that gets some pretty good answers...

Answer 2

Invisalign requires much, much more responsibility. Braces require less, but they are extremely uncomfortable. If you son is younger, braces are best.