Invisalign vs Braces Provo, UT

Invisalign vs Braces Provo, UT

For many, the idea of braces brings back painful memories of metal brackets and a mouth full of wire. Braces have a negative connotation for many people, because of their visibility and design. Orthodontics has come a long way though, and there are many options that patients with crooked teeth, overcrowded teeth or other issues can choose from. Today’s orthodontic options, however, are much more sophisticated and can help you achieve the perfect smile without ever having to worry about metal in your mouth again. 


Invisalign is one such option. As the name suggests, this type of treatment uses a series of invisible aligners to gradually shift your teeth into position. Not only are they aesthetically appealing, but they are much more comfortable than braces made of other materials. Made from a special plastic material, Invisalign aligners are removable, making it easier for you to eat and keep your teeth clean during treatment. They’re also virtually undetectable when worn, so nobody will even know you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. They are a highly convenient treatment option for people who don’t want traditional braces, and they can achieve similar or even better results. 

During your consultation at SuperGrin Orthodontics, your dentist will explain how Invisalign works and determine whether it’s right for you. If it is, she’ll take impressions of your teeth and use them to create a virtual model of your smile. This model will show how your teeth will move throughout the course of treatment — all before you even begin!  

Invisalign is not an ideal treatment option for everyone. If you have a severe condition that requires more specialized treatment, Invisalign may not be the right choice. It is mostly for mild cases, and the more complex your case is, the more trays that will be needed. To some people, it is too much of a commitment to undergo treatment for a long period of time. So talk to your orthodontist and find out if Invisalign is right for you. 

Braces vs. Invisalign: What’s Right for You?

The concept of braces is no longer limited to that of a metal mouth full of wires and brackets. New technologies have led to the creation of braces that are more comfortable, more discreet, and more effective than ever before. Many patients wonder if Invisalign clear aligners are as effective as traditional braces. They are just as effective as traditional braces, and many people who have used them have received excellent results. Because they are custom-made for your teeth, each mold is specially created to fit your mouth. After each stage of treatment, you switch to a new tray.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a series of clear aligners used to gradually move your teeth into proper alignment. The word “Invisalign” is often used as a generic term for clear aligner treatment, but it actually refers to the brand of aligners made by Align Technologies.

Why Choose Invisalign?

Most people choose clear aligner therapy because they want straighter teeth without the hassle of traditional braces. They are invisible, so people can’t tell that you’re wearing braces. You also do not have to go to the orthodontist as often to get your braces adjusted or tightened. Invisalign aligners are made with advanced 3D printing technology, so each mold is designed for your unique set of teeth. They are also comfortable and do not scrape against the inside of your mouth. Invisalign vs braces Provo, UT offers several advantages over traditional orthodontics:

  • They are removable and virtually invisible so you can continue to enjoy your favorite foods and activities without restriction.
  • They are comfortable without the rubbing or chafing that comes with braces.
  • The clear plastic allows your teeth to look their best while they are being corrected.
  • They are easy to clean so you don’t have to worry about cavities or bad breath caused

There are many benefits to Invisalign vs braces Provo, UT, especially for teens and adults. The biggest benefit is that you can remove the aligners at any time, which makes cleaning your teeth easier, and gives you the flexibility to eat whatever you want. You can clean your teeth more efficiently, and you do not have to worry about missing a spot because your braces are in the way. You can briefly take out your Invisalign aligners if you want a photo without them as well. Invisalign is also more comfortable than metal braces, and invisible so no one will know you are wearing them!

You’ll visit our office about once every six weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. Total treatment time averages 9-15 months and the average number of aligners worn during treatment is between 18 and 30, but both will vary from case to case.

How to Prepare For Your Consultation

Before you can make any kind of decision about braces, you need to have an Invisalign consultation. There are several things you should think about as you prepare for your appointment. The orthodontist will ask you detailed questions about symptoms you are experiencing, like tooth pain, trouble chewing, or other abnormalities that you have noticed. 

  • Get ready to discuss any pain or issues you are experiencing
  • Think of questions or topics you want to raise. If you want to know more about 
  • Consider the commitment. You will need to follow the instructions that the orthodontist gives you and attend necessary follow-up appointments for several months, or a year if you have a more serious dental issue. 

Our team of experienced orthodontists at SuperGrin Orthodontics will work with you every step of the way to make sure your treatment goes as smoothly as possible. They will explain to you everything you need to know about Invisalign treatment. If you are considering Invisalign for your treatment, be sure to get the basic information about it first. It is a great alternative if you want something other than metal braces to correct your teeth issues. Unlike traditional metal braces, you do not have to make drastic changes in your eating habits, so they are easy to adjust to. You’ll be able to see your progress every step of the way, and we’ll be there to answer any questions you may have.

Preparing For Your Invisalign Treatment

When you are anticipating your Invisalign treatment, you may be wondering if there are certain things that you can be doing to prepare. Should you just show up to your Invisalign appointment and have your orthodontist give you your Invisalign retainers? This is not the best idea. There are a few things you should be anticipating before you arrive at your appointment. 

  • Get ready for commitment. Wearing braces of any kind is a commitment. However, with traditional braces, you will likely be committing many years of your life to wearing them. When it comes to Invisalign, that commitment is much shorter but still something to be prepared for. The average amount of time a person wears Invisalign retainers is 12-18 months. If you think something will get in the way of wearing your aligners or you cannot fully commit, understand that the process will take much longer. 
  • Know your insurance. When you speak with your orthodontist about getting aligners, it is important to work with them to understand the cost of Invisalign. Many people are unable to outright afford Invisalign aligners and will need to go through insurance. Before making the final decision, make sure you know how much your insurance will cover and how much you will need to pay out of pocket. 
  • Be prepared for a mouth scan. Invisalign aligners are so successful because they are molded to the individual person’s mouth. When you go in for your initial assessment and decide to move forward with the Invisalign process, know that your orthodontist will need to scan your mouth and send these scans to a lab so that your aligners fit you perfectly. 
  • Be prepared for checkups. When comparing Invisalign aligners with your typical braces, you probably know that braces come with multiple checkups. In fact, with metal braces, you will need to go into your orthodontist’s office often to get your braces tweaked and tightened. With Invisalign, you will need to go in to pick up your aligner trays, ensure they fit appropriately, and only go back when you need a quick checkup or need new sets of aligners. 
  • Expect a teeth cleaning. When you are getting your aligners for the first time, you can likely expect your orthodontist to do a routine teeth cleaning to ensure your teeth are well-prepared for your aligners. 
  • You may need buttons. Many people who are getting Invisalign for the first time do not expect their orthodontist to put “buttons” on their teeth. It is important to be prepared for these buttons because they will be glued to your teeth. These buttons will help to keep your aligners in place and can move your teeth into their alignment quicker than they would move without the buttons. 

Common Misconceptions About Invisalign

If you are considering Invisalign vs braces in Provo, UT, you are definitely not alone. Invisalign is one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments. However, there are still many misunderstandings about it. Here are a few common misconceptions about Invisalign that you should not believe.

  • Invisalign can only correct simple orthodontic issues. Many people still assume that Invisalign can only treat minor orthodontic issues, like slightly crooked teeth and gaps. However, technology has advanced in recent years, so these aligners can also correct severe crowding, jaw problems and other orthodontic problems. 
  • Invisalign is more expensive than traditional braces. Some people are reluctant to get Invisalign because they assume it’s much more expensive than traditional braces. However, the two are actually pretty comparable in price. The total cost of Invisalign may depend on different factors, such as the severity of your orthodontic issue and dental insurance coverage. 
  • Invisalign is just for adults. While you might see more adults turning to Invisalign to correct orthodontic issues, teenagers can use it too. If you are considering getting Invisalign for your teenager, make sure that he or she will wear the retainers at least 22 hours of the day and clean them properly.
  • Invisalign can’t move teeth. Since Invisalign has a similar appearance to removable retainers, some may think that they can’t move teeth at all. Fortunately, these aligners are actually very effective at moving teeth gradually.
  • Invisalign causes pain. Traditional metal braces are well known for causing discomfort. Invisalign, on the other hand, are made up of a flexible plastic and are much more comfortable to wear. While you might feel some pressure the first few days, it will subside.
  • Invisalign does not have to be worn that often. Unlike traditional metal braces, you can remove your Invisalign aligners. However, in order for your treatment to work successfully you will need to wear the aligners at least 22 hours a day. Only remove your aligners to eat and brush your teeth.
  • Any orthodontist can do Invisalign well. This is not true either. It actually takes additional training and skill to use Invisalign well. Even orthodontists who have extensive experience with metal braces need extra training to apply Invisalign correctly.
  • Invisalign takes longer than traditional braces. Some people may be reluctant to get Invisalign because they think it takes much longer than traditional braces. However, they work at about the same speed. How long your treatment takes will depend on the severity of your orthodontic issue.

Invisalign will make you talk funny. Another reason why some people shy away from Invisalign is because they assume they will talk with a lisp. They are worried that others will not understand them when they speak. The good news is that most people with Invisalign aligners can speak perfectly clearly. While they may speak with a bit of a lisp the first few days, it will go away soon.

Call us today to learn more about Invisalign!

If you are interested in getting Invisalign over traditional braces, speak with your orthodontist to see what the pros and cons are and learn what steps you need to take moving forward. The Provo Invisalign vs. braces debate can be tricky, so get help from SuperGrin Orthodontics today.