Both braces and Invisalign are trusted, proven methods for creating a straighter, healthier smile, and neither is inherently better than the other. Each has its own strengths: braces can handle more complex alignment issues, while Invisalign offers a discreet, removable option that fits seamlessly into many lifestyles. The key to achieving the best results isn’t just choosing between the two, however; it’s choosing the right provider. An experienced orthodontic team will evaluate your unique needs, goals, and oral health to design a safe, effective treatment plan that delivers lasting results.
At Dental Depot of DFW, our experienced team provides trusted, expert orthodontic care with a full range of treatment options, including both braces and Invisalign. As a Platinum/Diamond Plus Invisalign provider, ranking in the top 1% nationwide, we have the skill and experience to treat even the most complex cases with precision. With comprehensive services offered under one roof, you’ll never need to be referred elsewhere, and our patient-centered approach ensures every treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs, lifestyle, and goals. Whether you’re looking for a subtle, removable aligner or the proven power of braces, you can count on us for safe, efficient, commonsense care designed to deliver lasting results.
Orthodontic treatment works by gently and gradually guiding teeth and jaws into proper alignment over time. This process relies on consistent, controlled pressure that stimulates natural changes in the bone and surrounding tissues, creating a healthier, more functional bite. While there are different methods for achieving this movement, the goal is always the same: a strong, stable, and confident smile that lasts a lifetime.
When it comes to achieving that healthy, aligned smile, the two most common treatment methods are braces and clear aligners like Invisalign.
“Braces” is a general term for fixed appliances that are attached to your teeth and apply continuous pressure via brackets, wires, bands, or similar components. They gradually move teeth (and sometimes help guide jaws) into the proper position.
Traditional metal braces, which are stainless steel brackets bonded to the front of teeth, with wires (archwires) threaded through, held with rubber bands (o-rings or ligatures). Wires are adjusted over time to change force direction. Elastic bands (elastics) may be used to correct bite issues.
Ceramic braces, which are similar in function to metal braces but with tooth-colored or clear brackets (ceramic or porcelain), making them less visually obvious.
Self-ligating braces, which use a sliding mechanism (“doors”) rather than elastic ligatures to hold the wire. They reduce friction, which may make adjustments smoother, allow teeth to move more freely, and may reduce discomfort. Dental Depot offers the Damon Clear system, a version of self-ligating braces with clear brackets.
Braces are permanently fixed (until removed by your doctor), so they don’t depend on you remembering to wear them (though you do have to take care in cleaning, eating, avoiding certain foods, etc.).
Clear aligners are removable trays (usually made of BPA-free plastic) that are custom-made in stages. A 3D scan or impression of your teeth is used to plan a sequence: each tray is slightly different, guiding your teeth step by step. You typically change to the next tray every 1–2 weeks.
You wear the aligners almost all the time (22+ hours/day is often recommended), except when eating, brushing, flossing, etc. Because they are removable, they give more flexibility in how you eat and maintain oral hygiene.
Invisalign is one of the best-known brands; there are also others. At Dental Depot of DFW, we are a Platinum (or Diamond Plus / Top 1%) Invisalign provider, meaning we have extensive experience with Invisalign treatment.
Both braces and Invisalign are proven, effective ways to achieve a straighter, healthier smile, but the experience of treatment can look very different depending on which option you choose. Each has its own unique benefits and challenges, making one a better fit for certain lifestyles, preferences, and orthodontic needs. Understanding these differences is the first step toward finding the solution that works best for you.
Braces. Traditional metal braces are the most visible option, though ceramic brackets or self-ligating clear systems like Damon Clear can make them less noticeable. Some patients enjoy customizing their braces with colorful elastics.
Invisalign. Invisalign trays are nearly invisible when worn, making them a popular choice for adults and teens who want a discreet orthodontic solution.
Braces. Because braces are fixed to your teeth, you don’t need to remember to wear them or worry about losing them. However, this means you’ll have food restrictions, avoiding sticky, crunchy, or hard foods that could damage the appliance.
Invisalign. Invisalign aligners are removable, so you can eat whatever you like and brush and floss as usual. The trade-off is responsibility—you must wear aligners for 20–22 hours a day, and losing or forgetting them can delay treatment.
Braces. Cleaning around brackets and wires takes extra effort, requiring floss threaders, interdental brushes, or water flossers to prevent plaque buildup and staining.
Invisalign. Since the trays come out, brushing and flossing are straightforward. You’ll also need to clean the aligners themselves and brush or rinse before putting them back in to avoid staining or bad odors.
Braces. Some soreness is normal after adjustments, and wires or brackets can rub against the cheeks and lips, though orthodontic wax helps. Self-ligating systems often feel smoother and cause less friction.
Invisalign. The smooth, wire-free trays are generally more comfortable and gentler on soft tissues, though each new tray can feel tight for a day or two as your teeth adjust.
Braces. Braces can address the widest range of orthodontic issues, including severe crowding, large rotations, vertical tooth movements, and significant bite or jaw alignment problems.
Invisalign. Clear aligners are excellent for mild to moderate crowding and spacing and can handle many bite issues, though they may be limited in some complex movements like rotating certain teeth or shifting molars vertically.
Braces. Braces usually take 12–24 months for most patients, though severe cases can take longer. Because they don’t rely on patient compliance, progress tends to be more predictable.
Invisalign. For mild to moderate cases, Invisalign can work faster, sometimes in as little as 6–18 months. However, treatment depends heavily on wearing aligners as directed; missed wear time can slow progress.
Braces. Metal braces are often the most affordable option, with ceramic or self-ligating braces costing slightly more. Pricing varies depending on case complexity and length of treatment.
Invisalign. Invisalign is usually at the higher end of the price spectrum, though shorter treatment plans may be comparable to braces. Your provider will give you a personalized estimate during your consultation.
Deciding between braces and Invisalign involves more than just picking the treatment that looks most appealing. The right choice depends on several factors, including the complexity of your misalignment, your lifestyle, and how involved you want to be in managing your treatment. During your consultation, your provider will take digital scans or impressions, review X-rays, and evaluate your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment. They’ll also discuss your oral health, daily habits, and goals to determine which treatment will give you the best long-term results.
Your orthodontic provider will explain how each option works for your unique case, outlining what to expect in terms of treatment time, cost, and maintenance. This personalized evaluation helps you understand not only what’s possible, but also what’s realistic given your commitment level and desired outcome. From there, you can make a confident, informed choice between braces and Invisalign.
At the end of the day, neither braces nor Invisalign is inherently “better.” Each option has its strengths, and the right choice is the one that safely and effectively achieves your desired results while fitting your lifestyle, timeline, and budget. If you want a discreet solution and are confident you can follow instructions, Invisalign could be ideal. If your case is more complex or you prefer a treatment that stays in place without daily responsibility, braces—whether metal, ceramic, or self-ligating—may be the better fit. No matter which you choose, what matters most is having an experienced provider guide you through the process, ensuring that your treatment is safe, effective, and leaves you with a smile you’ll be proud of for years to come.
Orthodontic treatment is about more than creating a straighter smile — it’s a complex process that involves carefully moving teeth and jaws while protecting your long-term oral health. Without the guidance of an experienced provider, treatment can lead to problems like gum recession, root damage, or bite issues that affect speech and chewing. That’s why it’s essential to choose a dental professional with specialized training who can plan, monitor, and adjust your treatment to keep it safe, effective, and predictable.
At Dental Depot of DFW, you get the benefit of a team with advanced orthodontic expertise and a full range of treatment options. Our providers are skilled in both braces and Invisalign, so we never “force-fit” your case into a single solution. Instead, we design a plan tailored to your unique anatomy, lifestyle, and goals.
Choosing the right provider ensures that whether you opt for braces, Invisalign, or a combination of both, your treatment will be safe, efficient, and designed to deliver lasting results.
At Dental Depot of DFW, we make orthodontic care convenient and accessible with multiple locations, flexible scheduling, and Saturday appointments at select offices. Our experienced providers offer comprehensive dental and orthodontic services under one roof, delivering commonsense care at an affordable price with personalized payment options to fit your budget.
Whether you’re considering braces or Invisalign, Dental Depot of DFW can help you find the right path to a healthier, straighter smile. Schedule your consultation today—in person or virtually online—to discover which treatment option is best for you.
