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Braces vs Invisalign

Home » Blog » Braces vs Invisalign

If you are considering braces or Invisalign, you likely have a number of questions such as: Which is more effective? Which is affordable? With so many options in the world of orthodontic treatment, patients ask a number of questions such as these and more. But in the end, they want to choose the treatment that will do the best job. The popular choice is usually between traditional metal braces and Invisalign. But if you had to make the choice today, do you know the difference?

Here at Craig & Streight, we believe patient education should play a major role in the treatment process.  With that in mind, we design treatment plans that are unique for each patient we see – one that keeps you informed and works for you and your lifestyle.

Let us explain the difference between traditional metal braces and Invisalign, so you can be one step closer to that smile you’ve always dreamed of having!

Treatment basics

Braces and Invisalign are both designed to straighten teeth while improving your smile and overall oral health. Metal braces consist of a metal bracket that is adhered to each individual tooth, and are then connected by a wire which will be tightened in a way that will adjust each tooth gradually into its proper place. The wire is held into place by small rubber bands, which come in a variety of colors.

Invisalign straightens your teeth without wires and brackets, using a series of clear, customized, removable appliances called aligners. Unlike traditional metal braces, the Invisalign system has only been around for a little over fifteen years, but that doesn’t lessen its effectiveness as we will see in a minute.

Metal braces

Young woman with braces

Metal braces are the most common and widely used form of braces. The most obvious difference between braces and Invisalign is that braces are not removable. However, they are extremely efficient at fixing complex issues, and they typically work faster than Invisalign.

While treatment time varies from patient to patient, the average with braces tends to be anywhere from 18 months to 3 years. But you’ll often see signs of improvement fairly early. This can give your self-confidence a boost while encouraging you to stay the course.

One of the things that causes some people to shy away from braces is the amount of maintenance that goes into this treatment plan. There are quite a few foods to avoid, the brackets and wires need adjusting from time to time, and they can be difficult to navigate around while flossing. But the good news is there are a number of accessories available to make your oral hygiene routine easier. Additionally, the majority of issues that might arise can be resolved at home with simple tricks.

Patients will schedule follow-up visits for traditional braces every 4-8 weeks. During these adjustment appointments, we will change the bands that are attached to the brackets, and the wire will also be tightened or changed. Generally speaking, you should be in-an-out in half an hour or so.

There may be some residual soreness after each appointment, but it should subside in a day or two. It’s highly important that you don’t skip these crucial appointments.  Doing so will most likely prolong your original treatment plan.

Invisalign

woman in cafe with Invisalign

What makes Invisalign such a popular treatment option is the fact that they are removable and invisible. This allows you to remove the aligners to eat, brush, and floss, or for special occasions when you don’t want your treatment to interfere with your lifestyle. Since these aligners are removable, you can eat and drink what you’d like, without the worry of breaking a bracket or loosening a wire!

The comfortable plastic trays are virtually invisible, and depending on the plan, your treatment might include as little as 12 trays or as many as 48.  We will give you instructions on how and when to use them. Average treatment time is between 6 and 18 months, but that can vary from patient to patient. This is also based on a patient’s willingness to wear his or her aligner for the designated 20-22 hours a day because any deviation from this can prolong treatment time.

Office visits for Invisalign users range from every 4-6 weeks, and at each visit you will be able to see just how much closer you’ve gotten to achieving your smile. Patients will also switch out aligners every 1-2 weeks in order to keep up with the shifting of teeth. This is an important part of the straightening process. If a patient skips appointments or doesn’t change out aligners when ready, treatment can be prolonged.

Let Craig & Streight help you decide

Whichever treatment option you choose isn’t just about improving your smile but improving your overall oral health. This decision shouldn’t be taken lightly, so it’s important to find a provider such as Craig & Streight who is experienced with both braces and Invisalign. We will recommend which method will best perfect your smile and teeth. Our team has years of experience working with both braces and Invisalign, and we’ll make sure you’re an active partner in any treatment plan we design.

If you’re in the Norman, Mustang, or Oklahoma City areas and are considering orthodontic treatment, get in touch with us today! Craig & Streight Orthodontics recognizes that the best dental and orthodontic care begins with world-class communication, and we specialize in making our patients feel right at home. We’re here to help you find your very best smile!

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Patient Testimonials

Hear what Our Patients Are Saying About
Their Experience With Us

Shannon T.
Everyone we have encountered over our 2 year adventure with Craig and Streight has been so amazing! I never left wondering about anything. My son had expanders and then braces. Dr. Kiel at the South OKC location has been wonderful. She is thorough, patient and so sweet with my little guy. I appreciate her and all the staff members for all their help throughout his treatment!
Response from the owner:Hi Shannon. Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s wonderful to hear that you and your son have had such a positive journey with our team. We’re dedicated to providing thorough and compassionate care, and it’s great to know that Dr. Kiel and the staff have made a lasting impression. Your feedback is invaluable as we continue to strive for excellence in patient care.
Anne L.
Staff is great. 😊 Virtual scans can be a pain but it is certainly better than going in for an office visit every week.
Response from the owner:We feel you! The scans hopefully will keep getting better and better but it’s definitely a nice step in the right direction!!!
Whitney M.
They didn’t rush to put braces on my son. They were up front about everything. The staff is always very friendly and easy to contact in case of an emergency.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the positive feedback. We are honored to serve each and every one of our patients!
Michael L.
Very comfortable environment and staff explains everything to both the patient and the parent. Can’t say enough good things about them.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you found our environment comfortable and that our staff took the time to explain everything clearly. Your positive feedback means a lot to us, and we’re here to support you whenever you need.
Jenifer G.
It was absolutely wonderful. Dr. Craig went above and beyond to make sure nothing was painful and they turned out wonderful.
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your experience! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a positive visit and that our team made your care comfortable and effective. Your feedback inspires us to continue providing exceptional service. We look forward to seeing you again!
Shelbey T.
I’m a pretty calm and low-maintenance person: I show up when I’m supposed to, I sit quietly, respond kindly, ask questions if I have any, etc. There are some places where it makes people uncomfortable and my experience is awkward, but that isn’t an issue here.

Staff are knowledgeable and kind, and they’re capable of appropriately communicating with a wide range of age groups. It’s a calm place, and I really appreciate that - not only for me but for any kiddos who might feel anxious about braces.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful feedback! We're delighted to hear that you found our environment calm and welcoming. It's wonderful to know that our team is effectively connecting with patients of all ages. Your insights motivate us to keep providing a supportive atmosphere for everyone. We look forward to your next visit!
Tina A.
I love the care I have been receiving at Craig and Streight Orthodontics!!! The Dr's are outstanding and the staff is amazing!!! I will recommend all of my friends and family for braces, invisalign, and/or whitening!!!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the positive feedback. We are honored to serve each and every one of our patients!
D S.
They are all very attentive and accommodating! Dr. Straight is AWESOME!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We appreciate your kind words about Dr. Streight. We look forward to seeing you again! :)
Phyllis E.
Currently, 3 generations under their care. Grandmother, mother, and two grandchildren. Very impressed.
Response from the owner:It’s fantastic to hear that multiple generations of your family are under our care. We truly appreciate your trust in us and are delighted to know that you’re impressed with our services. Thank you for sharing your experience!
Christine K.
I’ve had a great experience here and would highly recommend Craig & Streight to anyone!
Response from the owner:Hey Christine. We’re delighted to hear that you’ve had such a positive experience with us. Thank you for your recommendation; it truly means a lot to our team!
Tyler P.
Dr. Craig is wonderful! My son is now having his smile perfected by her. My teeth are still beautiful to this day, 21 years later, thanks to Dr. Craig! Her staff is wonderful and what an amazing facility. Thank you!
Response from the owner:Hi Tyler! We’re thrilled to hear about your positive experiences with Dr. Craig and our team. It’s wonderful to know that both you and your son are benefiting from our care. Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback; it truly means a lot to us!
Dani S.
Dr Craig and her staff are always so kind and caring. They provided a way to communicate with them outside of regular hours in case of urgent matters and are quick to respond. I am also thrilled with the result and have the smile I have always wanted.
Response from the owner:Hi Dani. We’re glad you had such a positive experience during your recent appointment with our orthodontic practice. We are committed to serving our patients and your feedback helps us to continue to do so. Thanks!
Skyler K.
It was my first time here and the staff was extremely kind and informative. I went ahead and made the decision to get Invisalign here as an adult! Makayla was knowledgeable, kind and enjoyable to talk with, I feel confident in my Invisalign process. I recommend this place!
Kailee H.
They were so easy to work with. The staff was so amazing. I would recommend Craig and Streight to everyone.
Response from the owner:Thank you Kailee for your fantastic feedback! We're delighted to hear that you had such a positive experience with our team. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we look forward to serving you again!
Fernanda G.
I had a great experience, everyone was very nice, I’m excited to go back!
Response from the owner:Hey Fernanda. We’re glad you had such a positive experience during your recent appointment with our orthodontic practice. We are committed to serving our patients and your feedback helps us to continue to do so. Thanks!

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Norman Office

706 24th Ave NW
Norman, OK 73069

Mustang Office

1476 N Mustang Rd
Mustang, OK 73064

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12100 S Western Ave
Oklahoma City, OK 73170

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706 24th Ave NW
Norman, OK 73069

1476 N. Mustang Rd.
Mustang, OK 73064
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