It is never too late to have a straight smile! With the advancement in dental healthcare today, wonky teeth are becoming a thing of the past, but it’s not just about the aesthetics of having a beautiful smile; misaligned teeth can cause all sorts of problems, making cleaning difficult and increasing the risk for gum disease and cavities.
Orthodontics is the specialised branch of dentistry that focuses on correcting misaligned teeth, bites and jaws to improve the appearance, function and overall long-term oral health. Orthodontists use appliances like aligners and braces to apply mild, continuous pressure to gradually move the teeth and remodel the jawbone. At Goldfields, we offer comprehensive orthodontic treatment for children and adults alike, ranging from traditional braces to clear aligners. But which is best for you?
Breaking Down the Fees: Braces vs Clear Aligners
There is never a one-size-fits-all solution where dental health is involved – it depends on the patient and the complexity of the treatment needed. Clear aligners like Invisalign are often slightly more expensive than traditional braces, but they are more convenient for simple cases. Traditional metal braces generally work out more cost-effectively and efficiently for severe, complex orthodontic problems, while clear aligners can often work out cheaper for minor adjustments or simple cases.
Factors that influence the price of treatment are not just in the materials used, although custom aligners and the advanced technology used for clear aligners can contribute to their price. More complex issues will require longer treatments, meaning more appointments and higher overall costs.
Treatment Duration and Overall Investment
Both traditional braces and Invisalign are used for straightening teeth, but the treatment time and overall investment differ. As a general rule of thumb, Invisalign are used for mild to moderate cases, lasting anywhere from 6 to 18 months and offers a faster treatment than traditional braces.
Traditional braces are better suited to longer, more complex cases, where treatment lasts longer, usually between 18 and 20 months. Ceramic braces are more aesthetic than metal ones but come at a higher price.
Prices will vary depending on individual cases, but generally, both metal braces and clear aligners can cost anywhere from about $3,500 to $9000+ for a full course of treatment as of early 2026.
Aesthetic and Comfort Pros and Cons of Each System
For complex or severe issues, metal braces offer a faster and more effective outcome than aligners because they provide powerful tooth movement, and you don’t need to worry about removing them once they have been placed. However, they are very noticeable (especially metal braces) and can cause mouth sores. They are harder to clean and can increase the risk of decay or gum disease, and it is best to avoid sticky, hard foods while you are undergoing treatment.
Invisalign is almost invisible and being made of smooth plastic are more comfortable than metal braces. They are also removable, which makes brushing and flossing easy, and there are no restrictions on the types of foods you can eat.
However, they can be more expensive and are not so effective on complex cases. Whilst you can remove them, they need to be worn 20-22 hours per day, so you need to be disciplined enough to wear them consistently if you want them to work properly.
Flexible Payment Options to Make Treatment Affordable
There is no right or wrong choice between traditional braces and Invisalign, and your Goldfields orthodontist can advise you on the most suitable treatment for you and offer you monthly payment plan options to make costs more manageable, because everyone should be able to afford a beautiful smile.