Invisalign

Key Takeaways If you’re thinking about straightening your teeth, you’ve probably come across two main options: clear aligners and traditional braces. Both can move teeth into the right place, and both can give you a healthier smile, but they’re not the same experience. At Clove Dental Riverpark, we talk with patients every week who are weighing the two. Some want the almost invisible look of aligners. Others want the reliability of braces. The best choice depends on your goals, lifestyle, and comfort. Here’s a breakdown so you can walk into your decision knowing what really matters. Why Clear Aligners Are So Popular Let’s start with what most people ask us about first: clear aligners. These trays are custom-made, snug-fitting, and nearly invisible when you wear them. You swap out the trays every couple of weeks as your teeth shift. What patients usually love: But there are trade-offs. Clear aligners require discipline. If you don’t wear them at least 20–22 hours a day, progress slows down. The Case for Traditional Braces Braces have been around for decades for a reason: they work. Metal or ceramic brackets are bonded to your teeth and connected with wires. They apply constant, steady pressure. The biggest strengths of braces: That said, braces come with some challenges. Cleaning around wires takes more time. Eating sticky or hard foods can be tricky. And of course, they’re visible; there’s no hiding them. How the Two Compare If you’re deciding between braces and clear aligners in Riverpark, here are the main points patients at Clove Dental consider: No one option is “better” for everyone. It’s about fit. Cost and Time: What to Expect People often ask about cost right away. At our practice, clear aligners in Riverpark and braces can be close in price, depending on the length and complexity of treatment. In many cases, aligners are slightly higher, but patients see the convenience and appearance as worth it. As for time, both options generally take 12–24 months. Simple cases may be shorter, complex ones longer. The real difference is lifestyle, whether you want the freedom of removable trays or don’t mind braces doing their work nonstop. What We See With Patients in Riverpark Some patients start with braces and switch to aligners once their teeth are in a better position. Others go straight to clear aligners because their case is simple, and they want the flexibility. At Clove Dental Riverpark, we always do a full exam and listen to what matters most to you, whether that’s speed, comfort, or appearance. We’ve noticed younger professionals lean toward aligners because of how natural they look in social or work settings. Patients with more complex crowding often get better results with braces. The key is customizing the plan. Tips If You’re Leaning Toward Aligners Thinking about clear aligners in Riverpark? Here’s what we usually tell patients: Stick with it, and the results can be just as good as braces for many cases. Bottom Line Straightening your teeth is an investment, not just in your smile but in your long-term dental health. Both braces and clear aligners in Riverpark can get you there; the difference comes down to lifestyle and what your teeth actually need. At Clove Dental in Riverpark, we’ve helped patients with both options, and we’ll walk you through every detail before you decide. Whether you choose the tried-and-true path of braces or the subtle convenience of aligners, the goal is the same: a smile you feel confident about.