Can You Switch from Braces to Invisalign?

Invisalign® has a very high patient satisfaction rating. So, it is not uncommon for patients who started with the more affordable traditional braces to decide to switch to invisalign at the middle of their treatment. But is this possible?

Yes. It is possible for patients to transfer from wearing traditional braces to finish their orthodontic treatment using Invisalign, but you must take your orthodontist’s advice into consideration and weigh it against your personal circumstances.

Implications of the Switch

Although switching from braces to Invisalign is not quite “starting over’, it can be very costly for two key reasons. First, the cost associated with removing braces is quite high; and second, ordering Invisalign aligners for the different treatment stages is also quite expensive.

• Higher switching costs – Compared to starting with Invisalign, it will cost you more to switch treatments. If you are on a budget, it may be better to stick with the braces until the treatment is complete and your teeth look perfect. Invisalign requires you to get new impressions of your mouth fabricated, which your insurance company may object. If you don’t mind paying out-of-pocket, you can proceed.

• Removing traditional braces – If you are planning on switching to Invisalign for a special event, you may get your orthodontist to remove the metal braces for a day. This process is costly, so you should consider switching completely to invisalign. Invisalign should not be removed very often. But since these clear plastic braces are nearly invisible, you can leave them on when attending events and still not look like you are wearing braces.

Consult With Your Orthodontist

If you have braces, it will cost you a lot to start over with Invisalign. So, speak with your orthodontist or dentist and ask him/her to be honest with you on what can be done if you are dissatisfied with the results of metal braces, or if the irritation is worsening. Some braces are very hard to take off, and your orthodontist may not agree to remove the braces anyway.

The switch process usually involves the following steps:

1. Discussing your treatment options with a qualified Invisalign provider.

2. Creating a customized treatment plan, whereby your orthodontist takes x-rays, pictures, and impressions to help create your customized treatment plan.

3. Receiving aligners and starting your treatment plan.

4. Changing your aligner after every two weeks as your teeth get fixed.

5. Completion of treatment. There is no recovery time, so you can go on with your activities after the treatment with a bright smile.

The fee to switch is usually between $2,000 and $5,000. If your case is not too intricate, and you have the money, there should be no problem. Switching can dramatically improve your quality of life - which should not be overlooked!

Dr. Steve Ngo is a certified Invisalign® provider in Orange County catering to Newport Beach residents and surrounding areas. If you are in the area and looking for orthodontic treatment, then consider Image Dental Orange County.