Major Differences

When considering Invisalign and traditional braces, patients should first realize that no one treatment is better than the other. The right treatment will vary on a case-by-case basis. The first step to determining what is best for a patient is an accurate diagnosis. From then on, Desert Dream Dentistry & Spa can consider the patient's treatment process goals, the patient's lifestyle needs, and more.

The main distinguishing factor between Invisalign and traditional braces is visibility. Invisalign is a more discreet option, while traditional braces will remain evident in the patient's mouth. Additionally, Invisalign trays are removable, while traditional braces will remain attached to the patient's teeth. Consequently, patients with traditional braces may need to make some dietary changes during their treatment. In any case, both Invisalign and traditional braces will require patients to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine and wear retainers after completion.

“When considering Invisalign and traditional braces, patients should first realize that no one treatment is better than the other.”

Length of Time

Though the result of braces and Invisalign remains the same, the time it takes for each treatment differs. Traditional braces require approximately 18-24 months of treatment. The average treatment time for Invisalign patients stays between 12-18 months, depending on the issues that need correcting.

For patients with minor misalignment, their Invisalign treatment may be finished as quickly as six months. Invisalign Teen must be worn between 20-22 hours a day, every day, throughout treatment. With both braces and Invisalign, the total treatment time varies.

“Though the result of braces and Invisalign remains the same, the time it takes for each treatment differs.”

Efficacy

According to at least one meta-analysis, patients prefer clear aligners like Invisalign over metal braces for their discreet nature, comfort, and ease of maintaining oral hygiene. Multiple studies in the meta-analysis also found that patients tended to have a shorter treatment time with Invisalign than with traditional braces.

However, it is crucial to note that Invisalign lacks the precision of traditional braces, making them better suited for patients with less severe orthodontic issues. While clear aligners are an overall effective means of addressing malocclusion, traditional braces can more significantly shift the teeth and jaw. At Desert Dream Dentistry & Spa, we take all the necessary steps to provide our patients with the most effective, personalized treatment possible.

“How effective are Invisalign and traditional braces?”

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Invisalign vs Traditional Braces in Palm Desert, CA

Dietary Restrictions

Certain foods remain "off-limits" when wearing traditional braces. Avoid sticky, crunchy, chewy foods, including chewing gum. Carbonated drinks and beverages that contain sugar (such as fruit juices) should also be avoided, as they can damage tooth enamel.

Your teen will not need to adjust diet — or give up favorite beloved foods — when wearing Invisalign. The aligners should be removed before eating and drinking. You should avoid foods high in processed sugars and carbonated beverages as they can damage tooth enamel, with or without Invisalign.

“Your teen will not need to adjust diet — or give up favorite beloved foods — when wearing Invisalign.”

Questions Answered on This Page

Q. What are the differences between Invisalign and traditional braces?

Q. How effective are Invisalign and traditional braces?

Q. What are the aesthetic differences between Invisalign and traditional braces?

Q. How long do braces and Invisalign treatments last?

Q. Are there dietary restrictions when wearing braces or Invisalign?

People Also Ask

Q. How do clear aligners save time straightening?

Q. How can someone find the right Invisalign Dentist?

Q. When are braces more effective than Invisalign?

Q. What are the types of dental cosmetic treatments?

Q. What should people consider before seeking cosmetic dental care?

Aesthetics

For many patients, one of the major selling points of Invisalign is its virtually invisible nature. Unlike traditional braces, they do not draw any attention to the teeth — making them appealing to teens, especially for senior pictures. Invisalign trays are also removable, which can come in handy for contact sports.

While Invisalign is a more discreet option to traditional braces, traditional braces can shift the teeth and jaw more precisely. On the other hand, Invisalign allows for less demineralization and root resorption than traditional braces — making patients less prone to discoloring or tooth shortening. In any case, all orthodontic devices have the potential to close any wide gaps between the teeth, straighten crooked teeth, and align the teeth tips.

“…all orthodontic devices have the potential to close any wide gaps between the teeth, straighten crooked teeth, and align the teeth tips.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Which is more comfortable: braces or Invisalign?

A. Initial discomfort comes when placing and adjusting braces. The brackets and wires can also irritate sensitive mouth tissues and may cause the occasional mouth sore. The good news is, this is temporary. Once patients become accustomed to their braces and adjustments, the pain goes away. For the most part, Invisalign trays remain comfortable and custom-made to fit each individual's mouth. Some patients may experience initial discomfort when switching to a new set of aligners as the teeth shift into new positions.

Q. Which takes longer: braces or Invisalign?

A. The treatment time varies for each individual, depending on the issues that need to be corrected. For most patients, braces must be worn for 18-24 months. Invisalign treatment remains typically shorter, and many patients can achieve their desired results within 6-18 months, depending on each patient and the issues that need to be addressed.

Q. Are there dietary restrictions with braces and Invisalign?

A. When wearing braces, patients will need to refrain from eating certain foods and snacks, such as nuts, sticky foods, and gum. With Invisalign, no dietary restrictions apply. With trays removed when eating and drinking, no worries remain regarding damaging them with hard or sticky foods. Whether you opt for braces or Invisalign, you must brush your teeth at least twice daily and avoid food and drink high in sugars.

Q. Which is more expensive: Invisalign or braces?

A. The cost of braces and Invisalign treatment varies, depending on the issue that needs correcting and the length of treatment time. Every insurance plan is different. Check with your insurance provider for coverage information before seeking treatment.

Q. How often will I have to see my Invisalign or braces provider?

A. Patients with traditional braces usually see their braces provider about every four weeks for adjustment appointments. Invisalign wearers typically visit their Invisalign provider about every four to six weeks to ensure their treatment is progressing as planned. Invisalign appointments are quicker traditional braces since there is no need for adjustment.

Quality Dental Services Can Transform Your Smile

By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.

Scan here to view this page, Invisalign vs Traditional Braces, on mobile

Invisalign® Terminology

Aligner Trays

With Invisalign® treatment, the patient will receive a series of aligner trays and swap out each one for the next one in the series every two weeks in order to gradually straighten the teeth.

Blue Compliance Indicator (Invisalign® Teen)

The blue compliance indicator is a small blue dot on the aligners that will fade from blue to clear in order to indicate if the patient is wearing the aligner for the proper amount of time and where the patient is in the Invisalign® process.

ClinCheck® Software

ClinCheck® software allows professionals to map out the straightening process the patient’s teeth will go through with Invisalign® in great detail.

Gum Line

The gum line is the line in the mouth where the teeth and gums meet. If a patient struggles with gum recession, then the gum tissue around the teeth may begin to wear away.

Incisal Ridges

Incisal ridges are the portion of the crown of the tooth that makes up the incisal portion and can be a direct cause of overbite if they are extended too far.

iTero Element® Scanner

An iTero Element® scanner allows professionals to create a 3D image of the patient’s teeth in minutes and predict what it will take to move the teeth into proper alignment.

Malocclusion

Malocclusion is the condition in which the upper and lower teeth do not meet properly when the bite is closed. Conditions of malocclusion can include overbite, underbite, crossbite and open bite; all of which are treatable with Invisalign®.

Overbite

An overbite is a type of malocclusion that occurs when the upper teeth jut out over the lower teeth, covering them and causing other issues.

Polyurethane Resin

Polyurethane Resin is a USP Class VI medical grade, high molecular weight compound that makes up the Invisalign® aligners.

SmartForce Attachments

SmartForce attachments are small attachments that professionals place on the patient’s teeth before placing aligners to help move the teeth.

Smart Track® Material

Smart Track® material is in Invisalign® aligners to increase comfort, improve control of movement, increases the speed of treatment and applies a gentle force to the teeth over time.

Smile-Scan

Smile-Scan analyzes the way a patient smiles by measuring the position of the mouth and eyes before giving a score.

Vivera® Retainers

Vivera® retainers are a type of retainer that consists of clear plastic material and helps to maintain orthodontic corrections after a treatment.

Call Us Today

A beautiful smile is not just a matter of aesthetics — it can also greatly impact your oral health. Whether you need Invisalign or traditional braces, Desert Dream Dentistry & Spa can help. Call us today at 760-565-0234 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.

Helpful Related Links

• American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
• American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
• Invisalign®. How Invisalign Works. 2025
• Invisalign®. Take the Smile Assessment. 2025
• WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025

About our business and website security

• Desert Dream Dentistry & Spa was established in 2017.
• We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
• We serve patients from the following counties: Riverside County
• We serve patients from the following cities: Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Bermuda Dunes, Cathedral City, and Palm Springs
• Healthgrades. View Background Information and Reviews
• Norton Safe Web. View Details
• Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details

Scan here to open directions to Desert Dream Dentistry & Spa on mobile

Back to top of Invisalign vs Traditional Braces

QR code for Invisalign vs Traditional Braces

Related Topics

• 7 Things Parents Need to Know About Invisalign Teen
• Alternative to Braces for Teens
• Clear Aligners
• Does Invisalign Really Work
• Invisalign for Teens
• Is Invisalign Teen Right for My Child
• Which is Better Invisalign or Braces
• Invisalign Dentist
• Find a Dentist in Palm Desert, CA

Related Posts

When Dental Pain May Indicate The Need For A Root Canal

Are you experiencing dental pain? Recognizing when a root canal is required can be the difference between saving a natural tooth and needing a total extraction. If you are experiencing dental pain, understanding the following signs will help you decide when to seek professional care.One of the most prominent indicators of internal damage is persistent,…

How Emergency Dentists Perform A Root Canal Retreatment

If severe tooth pain returns after a previous root canal, an emergency dentist may recommend root canal retreatment to eliminate the infection and restore long-term dental health. While an initial endodontic procedure has a high success rate, complications can arise years later that require professional intervention. By choosing an emergency dentist, you can find immediate…

Options For Replacing Missing Teeth: Are Partial Dentures Easier To Care For Than Dentures?

Dentures are a removable option for replacing missing teeth that can provide the wearer with either a full or partial set of false replacement teeth. Your best choice depends on the number of natural teeth that need to be replaced. In either case, a crucial aspect of successful denture wearing is proper care and hygiene…

Dentist Consult For Options For Replacing Missing Teeth

Dentist consultations are a great place to learn more about options for replacing missing teeth. There are several different options for replacing missing teeth. During a consultation, a dentist will help you determine the treatment option that best suits your health and circumstances, guiding you towards a healthier future for your smile.A dentist consultation should…

Explore additional topics covered on our website:

• Clear Braces
• Cosmetic Dental Services
• Invisalign
• Dental Office
• Find Dental Care Near Me

Call Us Today

Scan here to call Desert Dream Dentistry & Spa on mobile

About

We are committed to providing quality healthcare to families located in the Palm Desert area and treat patients of all ages.

Contact

• Privacy Policy
• /
• Sitemap

Request Your Appointment Today!

• Activate Black Text
• Activate White Text
• Increase Font Size
• Decrease Font Size
• Reset Accessibility Options