Bates Ortho Blog: Let’s Talk Teeth

Do you have teeth questions? Well, we have answers! We love talking teeth and breaking down common questions in a simple, understandable way.

How Much Does Invisalign Cost? And Other Top Invisalign Consultation Questions

Are you wondering about what questions to ask at an Invisalign consultation? Learn about Invisalign consultations and how to get Invisalign today.

What’s the fastest way to straighten teeth? Learn how to straighten your teeth professionally and how much time it takes to straighten teeth.

What foods can I eat with Invisalign? Learn the best foods to eat with Invisalign and an answer to, “Can you eat with Invisalign trays in?”

Who is eligible for Invisalign? Learn about how to qualify for Invisalign and how to get an Invisalign treatment started today.

How is an overbite corrected with braces? Learn about overbite treatments with braces and how to schedule a free orthodontic consultation.

Loose teeth with braces can be normal. Read this article to get an answer to “why do my teeth wiggle with braces?”

How old do you have to be for Invisalign? Learn about the age limit for Invisalign and why Invisalign for older adults is a great treatment option.

Does it look like your 2-year-old has an overbite? Learn all about toddler overbites and what to do when your child has one.

Can you wear Invisalign if you grind your teeth? Learn about how teeth grinding and Invisalign can be complimentary during an Invisalign treatment.

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Comparison Point	Traditional Braces	Invisalign	LightForce
Technology & Materials	Metal or ceramic brackets	SmartTrack material	3D printing technology, polycrystalline material
Customization	Standard brackets adjusted manually	Custom-made aligners	Custom-fit brackets
Treatment Process	Periodic adjustments, typically every 6-8 weeks	Series of aligners, check-ups every 10-12+ weeks	Custom brackets, check-ups every 10-12+ weeks
Comfort & Aesthetics	Visible brackets and wires, can cause irritation	Smooth, comfortable, nearly invisible	Custom-fit, clear brackets
Effectiveness & Treatment Time	Effective for all cases, 18-24 months	Effective for wide range, 12-18 months	Precision movements, similar or shorter time
Availability & Provider Experience	Widely available	Widely available	Growing availability
Post-Treatment Maintenance	Retainers required	Vivera retainers	Custom retainers
Adjustability During Treatment	Orthodontist adjusts brackets and wires	Removable aligners, new aligners if needed	Fixed brackets, orthodontist adjustments
Patient Compliance	Fixed, no compliance issues for tooth movement	Requires 20-22 hours per day wear	Fixed, no compliance issues for tooth movement
Lifestyle and Convenience	Some food restrictions, regular cleaning	Removable for eating and special occasions	Fixed, some food restrictions, regular cleaning
Visibility and Social Impact	Visible, may affect speech	Nearly invisible, minimal impact on speech	Clear brackets, less noticeable, minimal impact on speech