Orthodontists are often faced with the decision of whether to focus more on braces or Invisalign. While both treatments can deliver great results, the reality is that they are not equally suited for every practice or patient.
I spent years as one of the top Invisalign providers in Arizona. At first, I believed that clear aligners were the future of orthodontics. They were marketed as an easier, more aesthetically pleasing option for patients. However, over time, I realized that Invisalign presented more business challenges than advantages. The higher lab costs, compliance issues, and overall unpredictability of treatment made it a less profitable and more frustrating treatment option compared to braces.
In this chapter, I’ll break down why braces have been the smarter choice for my practice, how parents view treatment costs, the major pitfalls of Invisalign, and how to educate patients on the benefits of braces.
One of the biggest deciding factors for parents choosing between braces and Invisalign is cost. Parents don’t see orthodontic treatment as a luxury—they see it as a necessary investment in their child’s future. Because of this, affordability plays a major role in their decision-making.
Key Points
Invisalign is More Expensive: Higher Lab Fees: Unlike braces, which have relatively low material costs, Invisalign treatment comes with a high lab fee per case. These costs cut directly into profits and force practices to either charge more or accept lower margins. Refinement Costs: Many Invisalign cases require refinements, which means additional aligners at an extra cost—a cost that either the patient or the practice must absorb.
Parents Prefer the Cheaper, More Predictable Option: When parents hear that braces and Invisalign can achieve the same results, but braces cost less, most will opt for the more affordable choice. I’ve had countless consults where parents were initially interested in Invisalign but changed their mind when they saw the price difference. When given a clear cost comparison, braces often win because they feel like the safer, more economical choice.
Financing Braces is Easier: Braces are easier to finance and offer more predictability in payments. With clear aligners, unexpected refinements or lost trays can lead to additional costs, which parents don’t appreciate. Braces, on the other hand, provide a fixed, predictable treatment plan that is easier for families to budget.