Is Invisalign Cheaper Than Braces In Colorado Springs?


Sheila Soroushian

Dr. Sheila Soroushian
Orthodontist in Colorado Springs and Woodland Park, CO

One of the most common questions we get from families thinking about orthodontic treatment is whether Invisalign is cheaper than braces. And let’s be honest, that’s a sensible question to ask, orthodontic treatment is a big investment, and no one wants to break the bank. So we’re going to give it to you straight and try to break it down in a way that really makes sense. Orthodontics for adults offers discreet and effective solutions to straighten teeth and improve oral health at any stage of life.

Generally speaking, traditional metal braces are going to be less expensive than Invisalign. In the US, metal braces usually run between $3,000 to $7,000 while Invisalign tends to be anywhere from $3,500 to $8,000 or more. Now that difference between the two has narrowed over the years, though. We’ve had cases here at Inner Smiles Orthodontics where the cost is pretty darn close, especially for people who don’t need a lot of correction. The one thing that really is going to dictate the final price for either option is how complicated your specific treatment is going to be. Traditional and clear braces provide reliable, time-tested solutions for correcting alignment issues while offering options to match your lifestyle.

There are a few things that tend to drive the cost up of Invisalign. For one thing, the aligners are made out of custom-molded clear plastic that gets swapped out in sets as your treatment progresses, and that’s why it’s pricier than metal brackets and wires, plain and simple. And then there’s the fact that Invisalign requires patient compliance. You’ve got to wear the aligners 20-22 hours a day for the whole program to work, otherwise you can end up losing valuable time in treatment. And if you lose or break your aligners, you’ve got to pay for more trays on top of your initial treatment.

Metal braces, on the other hand, get attached to your teeth so you don’t have to worry about taking them off and on. That makes them a good option for younger patients or people who just can’t seem to stay on top of removable aligners. Plus, they’re a better choice for more difficult bite and alignment issues, which is why they’re still a pretty popular option here in Colorado Springs.

So what we always tell patients is to take a step back and look at the big picture when you’re comparing prices. Dental insurance, flexible payment plans, and whether your orthodontist has their own financing options all play a part in what you’ll end up paying out of pocket. And we know that affordability is a top priority, so we’ll work with you to set up a payment plan that fits your budget. That way you can get the orthodontic treatment you need and want.

At the end of the day, neither option is uniformly cheaper. What’s really most important is which treatment is the best fit for your teeth, your lifestyle and your budget. If you’re wondering about your options in Colorado Springs, we’re happy to take a look at what your smile needs and go over the costs with you. The first step is usually a consultation, and we’re always happy to make that process as smooth as possible for you.