Invisalign® Aligners

Invisalign® vs. braces—what's the difference?

There are many differences between Invisalign® aligners and braces, we’ve listed some of the largest ones here. Ultimately, the decision is up to you, but the introduction of clear aligners to the market introduced a more efficient, less painful way to straighten teeth.

• Materials. Invisalign® aligners use clear transparent plastic, while braces use wires and brackets.
• Removability. Invisalign® aligners can be removed by the user at any time, while braces can only be removed by a professional.
• Food Restrictions. Invisalign® allows a user to eat whatever they would like and not make changes to their oral care practices, while braces restrict what the user can safely eat and require special maintenance and care.
• Injury Risks. Invisalign® aligners do not present any injury risks, while braces can lead to cuts and other injuries.
• Visibility. Invisalign® aligners are nearly impossible for others to notice, while braces are almost impossible to miss.

Who can use Invisalign®?

Most teens and adult patients requiring mild to moderate orthodontic corrections can use Invisalign®. This includes patients with teeth that are crooked and misaligned or teeth that feature noticeable spacing problems. Invisalign® can even help patients with minor bite issues—however, not all orthodontic issues can be treated with Invisalign®. More extensive problems will require additional treatment.