Metal vs clear braces and Invisalign®: which is right for you?

At Class 1 Orthodontics, we know that choosing the right orthodontic treatment is a big decision. Whether you're considering metal vs clear braces or weighing up braces vs Invisalign®, understanding the key differences can help you make an informed choice. Our comparison table breaks down the benefits of each option - metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign® - so you can see which treatment best suits your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and orthodontic needs. While our specialists will always recommend the most effective option for your smile, we want you to feel confident in your decision.

	Invisalign®	Clear braces	Metal braces
Description	Invisalign® uses a series of clear, removable plastic trays (aligners) that fit over your teeth. Aligners are custom-made and changed every 2 weeks in order to gradually move your teeth into the desired position.	Unlike regular braces that use elastics and clips to apply force, our clear braces are self-ligating and use a slide mechanism to move the teeth into place. Clear braces blend in with your natural tooth colour.	Our metal braces are self-ligating too! That means less friction, more comfort and faster treatment times than with traditional metal braces.
Cost	Invisalign® treatment generally falls between $6,500 and $9,500 AUD, with pricing tailored to your specific orthodontic requirements. A full cost breakdown will be provided at your consultation.	Clear self-ligating braces usually cost between $6,500 and $9,500 AUD. The final cost varies based on individual treatment needs, which will be covered in your consultation.	Treatment costs typically range from $6,000 to $9,000 AUD, depending on the complexity of your case. Exact pricing will be discussed at your initial consultation.
Aesthetics	Virtually invisible.	Less visible than traditional braces but more visible than lingual braces and Invisalign treatment.	Similar to traditional metal braces but with much smaller brackets and no elastic ties.
Efficiency	Suitable for most cases from mild to moderate complexity. Treatment outcomes are dependent on the experience level of the practitioner.	Suitable for most cases.	Suitable for most cases.
Oral hygiene	Invisalign® aligners can be removed for normal brushing and flossing. Therefore it’s easier to maintain a good level of oral hygiene throughout the course of treatment.	Oral hygiene can be more difficult to maintain with fixed braces because you may find it difficult to floss and brush between the teeth.	Oral hygiene can be more difficult to maintain with fixed braces because you may find it difficult to floss and brush between the teeth.
Comfort	Most people experience temporary, minor discomfort at the beginning of each new stage of treatment. This short-term effect is typically described as a feeling of pressure. Speech may be temporarily affected at the beginning of treatment.	The discomfort that some patients feel might be a result of the brackets rubbing against the side of the mouth. This discomfort is short-lived and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relief.	The discomfort that some patients feel might be a result of the brackets rubbing against the side of the mouth. This discomfort is short-lived and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relief.
Compliance	Research shows that because aligners are virtually invisible, there is a high level of patient acceptance with Invisalign® treatment^{1, 2}.	Similar to metal braces, clear braces are fixed and do not rely on patient compliance for effectiveness. Consistent oral care and following your orthodontist's instructions are crucial to achieving optimal results.	As fixed appliances, metal braces continuously work to align teeth without requiring patient action. However, maintaining excellent oral hygiene and adhering to dietary guidelines are essential to prevent complications and ensure effective treatment.

Improving Periodontal Health through Invisalign® treatment, by Robert L. Boyd, DDS, MEd
Invisalign® Australia survey amongst 6 Invisalign® Teen providers. Data on file
Choosing the right orthodontic treatment is an important decision, and whether you opt for metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign®, each option has its own benefits. Metal braces are a durable, effective solution for all types of orthodontic cases, while clear braces offer the same reliable results with a more discreet look. Invisalign® provides a virtually invisible, removable alternative for those who prefer more flexibility during treatment.
At Class 1 Orthodontics, we understand that every smile is unique. Our expert team is here to help you find the best treatment to suit your lifestyle and orthodontic needs. Book a consultation today to start your journey towards a confident, straighter smile.

Book a consultation

First Name *

Last Name *

Email *

Phone *

Online consultation
In house consultation

By submitting this form, you are agreeing to our privacy policy and terms and conditions. Note: If you have private health insurance, this will be a ‘no gap’ appointment with no out of pocket costs. We will simply swipe your card at the appointment. This offer isn’t valid at our Kalgoorlie or Busselton Clinics, consultation fees are $298. Private Health rebates apply. All our appointments require a $50 holding deposit, we will contact you within business hours to arrange this.