English 
Spanish When you need to straighten your teeth, the two most common options are Invisalign and braces. Choosing between the two is a little like deciding between two paths that lead to the same destination. Invisalign is the discreet, flexible route, while braces are the more visible, sturdy path. While both achieve the same result, the journey is quite different. The decision between Invisalign vs. braces depends on your specific needs, as not everyone is a candidate for both.
If you’re considering clear aligners, Dr. Hopkins offers two options: ClearCorrect and Invisalign. Both treatments provide a solution for teeth with gaps, overcrowding, twisted teeth, and more!
Invisalign vs. Braces: Composition
Traditional braces are metal brackets attached to each tooth, with a wire running across your smile. The brackets hold the wire in place, and your dentist adjusts the wire by tightening it. This creates constant pressure, gradually shifting your teeth into the desired position. While the system is tried and true, the wire can be uncomfortable and poke the insides of your mouth, causing irritation. The bulky brackets and wires also make cleaning your teeth more difficult, which can result in poor oral hygiene.
Invisalign and ClearCorrect aligners are custom-made, clear plastic trays that fit snugly against your teeth, offering a nearly invisible way to straighten your smile. Dr. Hopkins uses a personalized series of these smooth trays to gradually move your teeth into their ideal position. Since you can remove the aligners for eating and cleaning, they provide a more convenient and flexible treatment option.
Invisalign vs. Braces: Procedure
The process of getting braces starts with taking messy impressions of your teeth to create a mold for treatment planning. When it’s time to attach the braces, the dentist cements brackets onto each tooth and threads a wire through them. The wire, along with rubber bands that hold it in place, gradually realign your teeth. The dentist will monitor the progress and adjust the wire as needed until your smile is properly aligned. Treatment with traditional braces typically lasts between one to three years, depending on the complexity of your case.
On the other hand, Invisalign and ClearCorrect do not require gooey physical impressions. Instead, Dr. Hopkins will take a scan of your teeth with his Emerald S scanner. This state-of-the-art technology allows lab technicians to easily create a 3D-printed mold of your teeth and create the trays required to move them.
Dr. Hopkins will provide you with a new clear aligner set every few weeks. In about 4 to 8 months, many patients can enjoy a straighter smile. However, depending on the severity of their case, some individuals may need to wear their aligners for a bit longer. Regardless, Invisalign often moves teeth faster than traditional braces. These clear aligners are a quick, easy, and comfortable way to straighten your smile!
Invisalign vs. Braces: Financing
While Invisalign may be limited for severe alignment issues, it offers excellent results for those who qualify. If you’re interested in clear aligners and want to learn if Invisalign or ClearCorrect may be right for you, we invite you to contact us today for a free orthodontic consultation. During this no-obligation discussion, Dr. Hopkins will evaluate your condition and determine the best treatment plan for your needs and goals.
Concerned about treatment costs? Many dental insurance plans offer some coverage for orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign or ClearCorrect. If you have any questions about your policy, we’re here to help! We also offer flexible financing options through CareCredit for those without insurance or anyone looking to break up out-of-pocket costs into manageable monthly payments.
Straighten Your Teeth at the Centre for Smile Designs
Ready to transform your smile? Trying to decide between Invisalign vs. braces? While Invisalign and braces are both reliable orthodontic treatments, the right option depends on your unique needs. If you’re curious about clear aligners like Invisalign or ClearCorrect, schedule a free orthodontic consultation with Dr. Hopkins today to see which treatment is the perfect fit for you.
Do you want to learn more about our clear aligners and the other treatments we offer at the Centre for Smile Designs? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
