Braces Vs. Invisalign

• February 13, 2025
• Dr. Bronsky
• Ask Dr. Bronsky

Braces Vs. Invisalign – Which Should You Choose?

Choosing a New York City orthodontist and making the decision to begin orthodontic treatment is probably exciting and a bit unnerving. You probably have many questions. You may wonder what having braces will be like? Or if Invisalign clear aligners would be a better choice for you. At Bronsky Orthodontics, we understand the concerns of our patients and put your comfort and oral health above all else. Our orthodontists have been helping patients find their path to a new, beautiful smile for decades and they can answer any questions you have about the high-quality orthodontic treatment they offer. Here’s a quick breakdown that may help:

Braces vs. Invisalign – How Do They Compare?

If one of your concerns is choosing between Invisalign clear aligners and traditional metal or ceramic invisible braces, we can help simplify your choice. There are many things to consider when trying to make the best choice for your budget, timing and lifestyle. While your New York City orthodontists will discuss these options and how they might affect you, we’ve outlined the pros and cons of Invisalign and braces.

Braces Treatment In New York City

Bronsky Orthodontics provides traditional metal braces as well as ceramic braces treatment to patients of all ages – from adolescents to teens to adults. Braces are the most common form of orthodontic treatment and have a long history of providing reliable, exceptional results for all common orthodontic problems. And, they even work well for patients with more extreme orthodontic needs. They work by adhering brackets to your teeth and then attaching a wire to the bracket. Our orthodontist then creates a force and momentum to re-position and align your teeth by adjusting the wire and using attached rubber bands. The wires help to move the teeth, and the rubber bands work to correct the alignment until your teeth move into their desired position. Some of the facts about braces treatment include:

• Braces are permanently affixed to your teeth during treatment time.
• The typical length of treatment is 2 years, depending on patient needs.
• Your NYC orthodontist will ask you to restrict your consumption of sticky or very hard foods sugary drinks.
• Best for more challenging orthodontic problems such as significant over and underbites and twisted teeth.
• You will visit your NYC orthodontist monthly to change wires and tighten brackets
• Brushing after every meal and flossing at least once a day are more important and sometimes more difficult due to bands and wires. It’s easier for food to get trapped and plaque to form with braces.
• You may have moderate discomfort reported during installation of any type of braces and for a few days after each monthly visit and braces adjustment. You may experience some mouth abrasions from rubbing wires/brackets.
• You will need to wear a retainer after treatment and ongoing.
• Generally less expensive than Invisalign with an average cost between $1800 and $5500, depending on individual treatment needs

Are Invisalign Clear Aligners Right For You?

While braces and Invisalign are both designed to straighten your teeth and improve your smile, their processes and the way they look are very different. Invisalign treatment is designed to be invisible and works by applying a series of progressive clear plastic aligner trays that effectively straighten the teeth when worn as instructed. Many of our New York City patients choose Invisalign as a treatment option due to their desire to avoid the “look” of metal braces or who wish to avoid the discomfort that braces can cause. Bronsky Orthodontics is a platinum Invisalign provider, a mark that shows our orthodontists are skilled and experienced in Invisalign treatment. Compare these facts about Invisalign with its braces counterpart:

• Best for milder orthodontic problems such as moderate crowding or relapsed tooth movement, although new advancements have increased treatment opportunities.
• Aligners are removable but should be worn 22 of 24 hours, which means you must have some self-motivation to follow the treatment plan.
• The typical length of treatment is 6 to 18 months, shorter than normal braces treatment.
• Most think Invisalign treatment is more comfortable, with the soft, bendable, clear plastic aligner trays
• Fewer visits to your New York City Invisalign orthodontist are required – approx. every 6 weeks to check progress and pick up any new sets of aligners.
• Your friendly Bronsky Orthodontics staff will ask you to still brush and floss daily, but you will also need to rinse and brush your aligner after meals, before putting back in your mouth. Many patients also soak their aligners overnight for deeper cleaning. Bacteria may get trapped inside aligners if not cleaned.
• Invisalign lets you avoid the discomfort of braces installation, but you will feel a mild discomfort every two weeks when a new set of aligners is worn that may last a few days.
• With Invisalign, you can take out your aligners to eat or drink so there are no food restrictions. However, we recommend you only drink water with your aligners in so as to avoid any staining of the plastic aligners.
• Like with braces treatment, you will most likely be asked to wear a retainer after treatment ongoing.
• Invisalign generally costs more than braces with an average cost of $5000, depending on individual treatment needs

Your Experienced Bronsky Orthodontics Dentists Help!

Still not sure which type of orthodontic treatment can help remedy your orthodontic problem? Let the expert orthodontists at Bronsky Orthodontics help. We’ll evaluate your orthodontic needs, consider your age and lifestyle, and recommend the best treatment options for you. With three conveniently-located orthodontist offices in TriBeCa, Park Avenue, near the Financial District of New York City, you’re sure to find one that is perfect for you or your child. Talking over your thoughts with an expert like Dr. Bronksy, Dr. Matos, or Dr. Equina, is a great way to help decide whether braces or Invisalign is right for you. Call 212-758-0040 for the Park Avenue office or   212-758-0040 for the TriBeCa office today and schedule your first visit. You can be confident in the choice to start the journey toward the beautiful, straight smile that you deserve!

Braces vs. Invisalign® for Teens in NYC: A Comparative Guide

As your child makes their way into the teenage years, it’s common for discussion to begin regarding orthodontic care. With permanent teeth taking over, dental problems become obvious just in time for adolescent self-esteem to take a hit. Deciding to pursue orthodontic care is the easy part, but figuring out the best route for your teen can be a bit more tricky. With more options than ever before, the best course of action is to schedule an in-person consultation. Professional orthodontists like those at Bronsky Orthodontics have the skills and training needed to properly assess your child’s mouth and provide available options specific to their needs. 

Sorting Through Options: Understanding Braces and Invisalign

When thinking about braces, the first picture to pop in your head is likely one of traditional metal braces. The most common orthodontic treatment, metal braces consist of stainless steel brackets and wires that work together to shift the teeth. The hardware remains in place for the duration of treatment, requiring periodic adjustments. Patients will be required to alter their lifestyle slightly while wearing braces. This includes avoiding certain foods, as well as adhering to a more thorough brushing and flossing regime.

Metal braces are popular and effective, but far from the only option available. Some NYC teens might be interested in a more subtle approach in the form of clear aligners. Invisalign® provides an alternative to traditional treatment by providing a series of removable plastic aligners that are custom made for your teenager’s mouth. Aligners are worn 22 or more hours per day and switched out every 1-2 weeks as teeth move They can be removed for eating or drinking anything other than water, but because of their ability to be removed, the dietary restrictions given with metal braces do not apply.

Both metal braces and Invisalign® are solid options for helping your teen obtain the perfect smile. The determining factor lies in the hands of your orthodontist, who will give a personalized recommendation based on specific  dental concerns along with patient goals and family needs. Let’s break down some of the key considerations for each:

• Considerations For Braces for Teens In NYC
  • Braces are a great option for most orthodontic needs, and necessary  for cases that are more severe or complex.
  • Treatment time for braces varies based on individual circumstances, but is generally 18-22 months.
  • Certain foods and drinks will need to be avoided to prevent hardware damage, decay and excessive staining.
  • Braces are typically lower in cost than Invisalign.
  • Your teen can have fun choosing band colors that match their interests or personality.

• Considerations For Invisalign  for Teens In NYC
  • Invisalign® Teen is meant for those with mild to moderate orthodontic needs. More complicated issues will require more complex treatment.
  • Treatment time for Invisalign® Teen varies based on individual circumstances, but is generally 12-18 months.
  • Invisalign Teen can be higher in cost than traditional braces.
  • Invisalign® Teen consists of a series of removable clear plastic aligners that are nearly invisible to the outside observerimpossible for others to see.
  • Aligners are removable, allowing patients to continue to consume their favorite food and drink, brush more thoroughly and remove for special events or photos.
  • Invisalign® Teen does require a significantgood amount of self-discipline as they are required to be worn most of the time to be effective (appliances to be worn 21+ hours/day)

Bronsky Orthodontics Delivers Personalized Approach to Teen Orthodontic Treatment in NYC 

Bronsky Orthodontics puts the patient first. During your appointment, you have our full attention as we discuss your questions or concerns. Initial appointments last approximately one hour, where we will perform a thorough oral examination to assess the patient’s clinical presentation. This exam includes a series of diagnostics including digital radiographs and photos of your jaws and teeth. We will use this information to diagnose any orthodontic issues, which will aid in the formulation of an individualized treatment plan. After gathering data and discussing the patient’s goals with the patient and family, we will present the treatment options that will get the results we’re looking for and help you make a final decision. From there, we will be by your side every step of the way, celebrating your teen’s radiant new smile at the end!

Frequently Asked Questions About Braces or Invisalign® for Teens in NYC

• Q: What is the main difference between braces and Invisalign® for teens in NYC?
  
  • A: The main difference between braces and Invisalign® is that braces are affixed to the teeth for the duration of treatment, while Invisalign® features removable aligners.

• Q: How do I choose the right orthodontic treatment for my teen in NYC?
  
  • A: Don’t worry, we can help! Scheduling an appointment with a Board Certified Orthodontist at Bronsky Orthodontics is the first priority when it comes to seeking out orthodontic care. Our highly educated and talented  orthodontists will examine your teen to diagnose problems and present the possible treatment options with you, discussing treatment details, duration, cost and any other questions you may have.

• Q: What are the benefits of braces for NYC teens?
  • A: There are many benefits of braces for NYC teens! Alleviating/correcting orthodontic issues can lead to a happier and healthier life. Improvements in mouth structure can have a positive impact on eating, digestion, breathing, sleep and other health-related aspects. . Additionally, the end result will lead to a stunning smile that will bolster your teen’s confidence and self-esteem.

• Q: Are Invisalign® aligners suitable for all teens in NYC?
  • A: Invisalign® aligners are a great orthodontic option for many teenagers and adults, but they aren’t for everyone. For teens with more severe dental needs, Invisalign® will not be an effective option.

• Q: What should NYC parents of teens consider when comparing the costs and outcomes of braces and Invisalign?
  • A: When either option is on the table, the decision between braces or Invisalign® for teens in NYC can be a tough one. The outcome of both treatments include a winning smile, so it comes down to personal preference. Invisalign® offers subtlety, and flexibility but will only be successful with diligent compliance (wearing the appliances for 21+ hours/day).  Braces provide more precision and accuracy as well as more predictable outcomes. Treatment times for both treatment modalities are approximately the same as Mother Nature allows for a specific rate of bone remodeling and tooth movement.  Compliance in the wear and care of the patient’s chosen treatment method is the main determinant of optimal results and shortest treatment time.Families should discuss the pros and cons of both options together and with a Bronsky Orthodontics specialist to determine the best route for their individual circumstances.
• Q: How does Bronsky Orthodontics determine the appropriate orthodontic option for NYC teens?
  • A: The team at Bronsky Orthodontics combine their decades of education and expertise with modern-day technology to diagnose orthodontic problems. Armed with information gathered through clinical examination and digital radiographs and photographs, problem areas can be discussed with the most effective treatment options presented for consideration.

Schedule An Orthodontic Consultation for Your NYC Teen Today

Orthodontic care options come bursting with choices, but it doesn’t have to be as overwhelming as it seems. Make your first choice by reaching out to Bronsky Orthodontics to set up a consultation appointment. We will provide detailed information about the options available for your teen in New York City, helping guide you to the best treatment between braces or Invisalign. Throughout the process, we’re just a phone call or visit away for any questions, concerns or advice that needs to be discussed. Request an appointment today to get started!