Invisalign Vs. Braces: Which Is Better? | Everyday Health

Health ConditionsDental & Oral HealthShare this articleShareShare on FacebookShare on XShare on PinterestCopy LinkInvisalign vs. Braces: Which Is Better?

ByQuinn PhillipsUpdated on December 15, 2025Medically Reviewed byElizabeth V. Simpson, DMDON THIS PAGE

• The Differences
• Invisalign
• Clear Aligner Benefits
• Clear Aligner Drawbacks
• Braces
• Braces Benefits
• Braces Drawbacks
• Factors to Consider
• Other Clear Aligners

ON THIS PAGE

• The Differences
• Invisalign
• Clear Aligner Benefits
• Clear Aligner Drawbacks
• Braces
• Braces Benefits
• Braces Drawbacks
• Factors to Consider
• Other Clear Aligners

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment for yourself or your child, you may wonder if traditional braces or clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are a better option.

Braces and Invisalign both have distinct benefits and drawbacks. For some people, the choice may come down to personal preference, but your orthodontist may recommend one or the other based on your specific needs.

What’s the Difference Between Invisalign and Braces?

Invisalign is one brand of clear aligners, also known as invisible braces. Like traditional metal braces, clear aligners are orthodontic devices that move teeth to fix problems like:

• Crooked teeth
• Gapped or crowded teeth
• Teeth malalignment, such as an overbite or underbite

Clear aligners are custom-made mouthpieces (also called shells or trays) molded from a thin, plastic-like material. They apply pressure to the teeth, guiding them to the desired position.

Clear aligners come in sets that are worn in sequence, with each aligner typically worn up to 22 hours a day for a week.

[1]

Braces consist of brackets affixed to your teeth, along with wires and sometimes elastic bands that are used to apply pressure that moves teeth to a desired position. They are typically adjusted at an appointment every 4 to 12 weeks, depending on your treatment plan.

[2]

Unlike nearly invisible clear aligners, braces tend to be visible. But certain materials and techniques can make braces less visible, such as tooth-colored brackets or putting braces behind the teeth.

While braces can be uncomfortable when they are first placed or adjusted, most people adapt fairly quickly so that both braces and clear aligners cause minimal lasting discomfort.

[3]

For both braces and clear aligners, the overall duration of treatment will vary based on individual factors. Treatment with braces typically lasts 12 to 24 months. However, in some cases it may take longer.

[2]

Treatment with clear aligners, on the other hand, may require less time, depending on how complex a person’s case is.

[4]

Cost Comparison

The price for braces or clear aligners depends on individual factors, and there’s no rule of thumb for which costs more. You’ll need to see an orthodontist for an estimate tailored to your needs.

According to Jose A. Bosio, BDS, MS, division chief and orthodontic program director at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry in Baltimore, braces are often more affordable, ranging in price from $3,000 to $7,000 compared with $4,000 to $8,000 for clear aligners.

But, he adds, “many practices are now fabricating their own aligners inside their facilities, which lowers the cost” — something that newer technologies have made possible.

While dental plans vary, insurance providers with orthodontic coverage often pay for both options.

[1]

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign and other clear aligners work by wearing a series of trays (or shells) that snap over your teeth. These trays are made of a thin, clear plastic material and apply pressure to your teeth in a way that moves them toward the desired outcome.

“Each tray moves the teeth a little bit, and when they’re worn in succession over time, they move the teeth into their final position,” says Petra Bachour, DMD, MS, an orthodontist and assistant professor at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in Minneapolis.

The series of clear aligners is based on a scan of the inside of your mouth, which typically takes 10 to 15 minutes as part of an office visit. Since most orthodontists don’t make the aligners in their office, it can take 4 to 6 weeks between your scan and the start of treatment.

[1]

In many cases, your orthodontist will affix several small, tooth-colored attachments to your teeth to help the clear aligners guide them into place.

[3]

It’s important to follow your orthodontist’s instructions on wearing clear aligners. Sometimes you’ll need more than one series.

“If at the end of the series perfect alignment isn’t reached, a new scan is taken and a new set of aligners is designed and fabricated,” says Dr. Bachour, a process known as refinement.

The Benefits of Clear Aligners

Clear aligners offer several potential benefits over braces:

[3]

• Discreet in Appearance Clear aligners are nearly invisible at a short distance, with no wires and only tooth-colored attachments, if any.
• More Comfortable Unlike braces, clear aligners have no brackets that can irritate the inside of your mouth.
• Removable You take clear aligners out to eat, and they can also be removed for intimacy or special events.
• Easier Oral Care There’s no need to learn special techniques for brushing and flossing your teeth because you take out clear aligners for this.
• No Food Restrictions Unlike with braces, there’s no need to avoid hard or chewy foods because you take out clear aligners before eating.
• Fewer Office Visits You’ll switch to your next set of clear aligners based on your orthodontist’s instructions, with no need for an office visit until you’ve completed the series in most cases.
• Less Time In many cases, clear aligners can move your teeth to the desired position faster than braces can.

  [4]

The Drawbacks of Clear Aligners

Clear aligners have some drawbacks:

[3]

• Not for Complex Cases Clear aligners are typically best for people who need only minor adjustments to their teeth.

  [1]

• Must Be Removed While Eating If you snack throughout the day or sip beverages other than plain water, clear aligners may not be the best fit for your lifestyle.
• More Toothbrushing Since you need to brush your teeth after every meal or snack before putting clear aligners back in, this can mean more frequent brushing.
• Scheduled Wearing To be effective, clear aligners need to be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. For people who might forget to wear them, they may not be a good choice.
• Easily Lost or Damaged Because you take them out to eat, clear aligners can be mistakenly left on restaurant tables or thrown in the garbage.
• Visible Attachments Many people need tooth-colored attachments that help clear aligners guide teeth into place. While these are less visible than braces, some people may not prefer them.
• At-Home Impressions While this may be a convenient and cost-effective perk for some, there is a lot of room for error and potential issues if there’s no licensed professional involved.

When Are Braces Best?

Whether or not to choose braces over clear aligners often may come down to your orthodontist’s recommendation.

“Braces offer more precise control” and may be better for more complex cases, says Dr. Bosio.

The Benefits of Braces

Braces offer certain benefits that clear aligners don’t:

[3]

• Solves Many Problems Even complicated orthodontic problems can usually be treated with braces.
• Can Be Less Visible You can get the benefits of braces with a less obvious appearance through options like tooth-colored brackets or braces behind the teeth.
• Nonremovable Since braces stay on your teeth, you don’t have to remember to take them out or put them back in.
• No Drink Restrictions You can sip tea or coffee while wearing braces, which is not recommended for clear aligners.

The Drawbacks of Braces

There are a few potential downsides to wearing braces:

[3]

• Less Comfortable Some people find that braces irritate the inside of their mouth, and you may also experience discomfort after getting your braces adjusted.
• More Visible Traditional braces are quite visible when you smile or talk. Even with steps to minimize visibility, such as with tooth-colored brackets, braces tend to be more visible than clear aligners.
• Not Compatible With All Foods You should avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods if you have braces because eating them can break off a bracket or pop a wire out of place.
• More Office Visits You’ll need to visit your orthodontist for regular adjustments, typically every 4 to 12 weeks.

  [2]

• Extra Oral Care “With braces, plaque tends to accumulate around the brackets and wires, so extra care is needed” with brushing and flossing, says Bachour.
• May Leave Stains When your braces are removed, the color of areas of your teeth that were covered by brackets may be different from surrounding areas. Usually, this evens out over time, but it can also point to an underlying problem that may need further treatment.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Orthodontic Treatment

It’s important to consider a range of factors when deciding between braces and clear aligners. “The decision ultimately depends on the individual’s dental needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences,” says Bosio.

For some people, braces are a better option than clear aligners due to the greater control they offer. Bosio says that braces may be a better choice when a person has more complex dental issues, such as:

• Severe malalignment of teeth
• Large gaps between all teeth
• Significant overjet (buck teeth, or horizontal gap between top and bottom teeth)
• Many missing teeth

“One benefit of traditional braces that people might not immediately consider is their predictability and consistency, especially for younger patients,” says Bosio. “Because braces are fixed to the teeth, they work continuously without relying on patient compliance, which can lead to more consistent results in some cases.”

But the extra oral care needed for braces can be a major downside for some people. Flossing often takes much longer with braces, and you may need special tools like floss threaders or water flossers, Bosio says.

Clear aligners are seen by many adults as a better option due to their more discreet appearance, as well as the ability to brush and floss your teeth without special tools or care, Bachour says. But many people don’t consider the discipline needed with clear aligners.

“Compliance is a super important factor in the success of clear aligner therapy,” says Bachour. “If patients don’t wear their aligners as instructed, then typically the movements built into the aligners don’t play out.”

Because of the discipline needed, clear aligners are rarely a good option for younger children, Bachour says. On the other hand, “There are many adolescent patients that do really well with Invisalign,” she says.

Alternatives to Invisalign

While Invisalign is an established and well-known brand of clear aligners, it isn’t the only option. And though many of these services offer at-home impressions, going to a certified office is always recommended, so try to choose in-person scanning if you’re able to.

With that in mind, here are some alternative brands to consider.

CandidPro

Similar to Invisalign, CandidPro involves in-office visits to get a mouth scan and create a treatment plan. But it also offers remote check-ins using an app that uses your phone to take scans of your teeth.

The cost of CandidPro varies by provider and will depend on the complexity of your case, but expect to pay several thousands of dollars.

[5]

ALIGNERCO

This lower-cost option doesn’t require any office visits, with an impression kit and clear aligners sent to your home. There is a standard option as well as a night-only option that is worn for 8 to 10 hours at night.

[6]

The company offers flexible financing options. If you pay the full price up front, the standard aligner plan costs $1,095, while the night-only option costs $1,295.

[7]

NewSmile

NewSmile is an online brand. The company sends you an at-home impression kit, which is then used to create a “3D treatment preview” followed by delivery of your clear aligners. If you are determined not to be a candidate for the therapy, the company guarantees a full refund of your payment.

[8]

The company offers flexible financing. If you pay up front, the standard aligner plan costs $1,595, and the night-only aligner plan costs $1,695.

[9]

Aligner32

Aligner32 offers two different plans: all-day and night wear, in both dual arch and single arch options. The company sends an impression kit in the mail. If you’re not a good candidate for Aligner32, full refunds are available.

Pricing depends on how many aligners you need and if you need all-day or night-only aligners. Dual arch, all-day aligners, for example, cost $1,449, while single, night-only aligners are $1,249.

[10]

Smileie

Smileie offers at-home impressions by mail.

[11]

 They also provide in-person scanning services.

[12]

The Day-Time Dual Arch package costs $749. Smileie also has pricing plans available.

[13]

The Takeaway

• Braces and Invisalign can both be effective for orthodontic treatment in most cases, but each method offers distinct benefits and drawbacks.
• For more complex cases involving severe malalignment of teeth, braces may be a better option.
• Many adults prefer Invisalign due to its more discreet appearance and the ability to remove trays for eating and oral care.
• Braces and Invisalign are often similar in cost, while there are other lower-cost options for clear aligners.

Resources We Trust

• Cleveland Clinic: Malocclusion
• Mayo Clinic: Dental Braces
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Braces Have Changed, From Metal to Tooth-Colored to Clear
• MedlinePlus: Orthodontia
• Johns Hopkins Medicine: Orthodontics/Braces for Children

EDITORIAL SOURCESEveryday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.SourcesResources

1. Clear Aligners. American Association of Orthodontists.
2. How Do Braces Work? American Association of Orthodontists.
3. Aligners vs. Braces: A Comparison. American Association of Orthodontists. January 30, 2019.
4. Clear Aligner Therapy: The Discreet Way to Straighten Teeth. American Association of Orthodontists. June 17, 2024.
5. Expect More From Your Clear Aligners. CandidPro.
6. About ALIGNERCO Invisible Aligners. ALIGNERCO.
7. Perfect Smiles Made Affordable. ALIGNERCO.
8. Straighten Your Teeth With At-Home Clear Aligners. NewSmile.
9. Day Aligners: Fast, Effective Clear Aligners Direct to You. NewSmile.
10. Smile Confidently With Aligner32 Clear Aligners! Aligner32.
11. How It Works. Smileie.
12. Start Your Smile With In-Person Scans. Smileie.
13. All About Smileie Clear Aligners. Smileie.

Meet Our ExpertsSee Our Editorial PolicyMeet Our Health Expert Network

Elizabeth V. Simpson, DMD

Medical Reviewer

Elizabeth V. Simpson, DMD, is a clinical associate professor at the Indiana University School of Dentistry in Indianapolis. The bulk of her practice has been in the public health setting.

She attended the University of Notre Dame, where she was a science pre-professional studies major. After college, she worked in the Indianapolis public schools as a bilingual teaching assistant, which is when she decided to become a dentist. She graduated from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in 2010 and did a general practice residency at Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry.

Dr. Simpson has completed two leadership programs. In one for the Indiana Dental Association, she started a mentoring program pairing high school students from underrepresented groups who were interested in pursuing dentistry with dental students also from underrepresented groups from the Indiana University School of Dentistry. In an American Dental Association program, she started a tooth-brushing program at an elementary school in Indianapolis.

Simpson writes for an American Dental Association blog and has participated as a speaker and panelist at several conferences, including for the Christian Dental Association, American Student Dental Association, and American Association of Women Dentists, as well as for the American Dental Association's Smile Con.She is fluent in Spanish and speaks conversational French and Portuguese.

See full bio

Quinn Phillips

Author

A freelance health writer and editor based in Wisconsin, Quinn Phillips has a degree in government from Harvard University. He writes on a variety of topics, but is especially interested in the intersection of health and public policy. Phillips has written for various publications and websites, such as Diabetes Self-Management, Practical Diabetology, and Gluten-Free Living, among others.

See full bioSee Our Editorial PolicyMeet Our Health Expert Network RELATED ARTICLES5 Best Affordable Invisible Braces Brands 

Aligners5 Best Affordable Invisible Braces Brands Medically Reviewed by Stacy A. Spizuoco, DDS | Apr 07, 2025We Asked Real Patients About Their Experiences With Oar Health — Here’s What They Said

Medical ProductsWe Asked Real Patients About Their Experiences With Oar Health — Here’s What They SaidMedically Reviewed by Justin Laube, MD | Feb 28, 2025I’m a Psychologist Who Tried Online Therapy at ADHDAdvisor.org — Here’s What Happened

Online TherapyI’m a Psychologist Who Tried Online Therapy at ADHDAdvisor.org — Here’s What HappenedMedically Reviewed by Kelsey M. Latimer, PhD, RN | Oct 28, 2024I'm a Therapist With OCD Who Tried NOCD — Here’s How It Helped

Online TherapyI'm a Therapist With OCD Who Tried NOCD — Here’s How It Helped Medically Reviewed by Kelsey M. Latimer, PhD, RN | Oct 10, 2024The Pros and Cons of Dental Veneers

Dental HealthThe Pros and Cons of Dental VeneersMedically Reviewed by Stacy A. Spizuoco, DDS | Sep 30, 2024Innerwell Is Known for Ketamine Treatment — How Do Their Talk Therapy Services Compare?

Online TherapyInnerwell Is Known for Ketamine Treatment — How Do Their Talk Therapy Services Compare?Medically Reviewed by Angela D. Harper, MD | Sep 30, 20246 Most Affordable Hearing Aids of 2024: Low Cost Options

Hearing Aids6 Most Affordable Hearing Aids of 2024: Low Cost OptionsMedically Reviewed by Rachel Magann Faivre, AuD | Jul 19, 2024What Is ‘Mewing’? How to Do It and Whether It Works

Oral HealthWhat Is ‘Mewing’? How to Do It and Whether It WorksMedically Reviewed by Elizabeth V. Simpson, DMD | Jun 19, 2024We Reviewed the 5 Best Retailers for Cheap Glasses Online

Prescription EyewearWe Reviewed the 5 Best Retailers for Cheap Glasses OnlineMedically Reviewed by Michael W. Stewart, MD | Apr 25, 2024Zenni Optical Review: Affordable Custom Styles

Vision ProductsZenni Optical Review: Affordable Custom StylesUpdated on Apr 25, 2024The 9 Best Stores to Buy Glasses Online 2024

Prescription EyewearThe 9 Best Stores to Buy Glasses Online 2024Medically Reviewed by Edmund Tsui, MD | Apr 25, 20246 Best Places to Order Contacts Online in 2024

Prescription Eyewear6 Best Places to Order Contacts Online in 2024Medically Reviewed by Edmund Tsui, MD | Oct 31, 2023Best Invisible Braces for Adults: Reviews and Pricing

AlignersBest Invisible Braces for Adults: Reviews and PricingUpdated on Oct 27, 20235 Best Online Premarital & Marriage Counseling Platforms Reviewed by Experts

Online Therapy5 Best Online Premarital & Marriage Counseling Platforms Reviewed by ExpertsMedically Reviewed by Seth Gillihan, PhD | Sep 20, 2023Eargo Hearing Aids Review 2024: Pricing, Features, and More

Hearing AidsEargo Hearing Aids Review 2024: Pricing, Features, and MoreMedically Reviewed by Brad Ingrao, AuD | Aug 15, 2023Starkey Hearing Aids Review 2024: Costs, Models, and Features

Hearing AidsStarkey Hearing Aids Review 2024: Costs, Models, and FeaturesMedically Reviewed by Brad Ingrao, AuD | Jul 21, 2023Audien Hearing Aids Review 2024: Costs, Models, and Features

Hearing AidsAudien Hearing Aids Review 2024: Costs, Models, and FeaturesMedically Reviewed by Brian Murray | Jul 21, 2023Phonak Hearing Aids Review 2023: Prices, Models, Features, and More

Hearing AidsPhonak Hearing Aids Review 2023: Prices, Models, Features, and MoreMedically Reviewed by Brad Ingrao, AuD | Jul 21, 20233 Best Therapy Options Online for Postpartum Depression in 2023: Let's Talk About It

Online Therapy3 Best Therapy Options Online for Postpartum Depression in 2023: Let's Talk About ItMedically Reviewed by Marni Amsellem, PhD | Jun 12, 2023Where to Shop for the Best Cheap Contacts Online in 2024

Prescription EyewearWhere to Shop for the Best Cheap Contacts Online in 2024Published on Feb 03, 2023