First and foremost, we should clarify: Invisalign is a brand name, like Kleenex or Zip Lock. Invisalign treatment is a brand of Clear Aligner Treatment (CAT). So, is CAT the best option?

Clear aligner therapy is an amazing treatment modality. It has actually been used since the 1980s before Invisalign came along. The technology behind clear aligners has advanced recently to become a major method of treatment for orthodontists. In the hands of a well-trained orthodontist, CAT can be as effective as braces, and sometimes even more effective. However, there are also cases that still are not recommended for CAT over braces.

If Invisalign is an option, why would anyone do braces?

CAT is truly an excellent option. They are clear, they are removable, and they are flexible. This means they are essentially invisible to the untrained eye, you can eat, brush and floss normally, and orthodontists have exceptional control over the force systems applied to your teeth.

However, there are a few advantages braces have, too. First, braces are “fixed”. This means they are attached to your teeth. For people – usually but not always kids and teenagers – who lose things or are not confident they would be compliant enough to wear clear aligners 22 hours per day as instructed, braces are a better option. 

Orthodontists sometimes prefer braces because there are certain types of tooth movements that are simply more effective and better accomplished with braces. Lastly, braces allow for more flair. They can be bling for your mouth, where you can choose from dozens of color ties, and even between metal, clear, and gold colored brackets. Awesome. Use them as a statement. You can make braces cool, and there is no shame in wearing them. You should never be embarrassed that you are trying to improve yourself – show it off!



We will always give our best recommendation on braces vs clear aligners and explain the pros and cons so you can feel comfortable with your choice.

General dentists do Invisalign, too. Isn’t that the same?

It’s not the material or method of treatment that makes an orthodontist an orthodontist. It is the level of care delivered due to a specialized understanding of diagnosis and treatment planning and understanding the mechanics and biology of tooth movement. If you would not go to a general dentist for braces, you shouldn’t go for Invisalign.