If you’re wondering “Are Invisalign better than braces?”, the real answer is—it depends on the patient, the provider, and the goals of treatment.
At Strouse Orthodontics, we’ve helped thousands of patients in Spring Hill, Lecanto, and surrounding areas achieve healthy, beautiful smiles using both clear aligners and braces. Dr. Eric Strouse is not only a board-certified orthodontist, he also lectures nationally on clear aligner treatment and has the experience to treat even the most complex cases with aligners—something most general dentists simply are not trained to do.
Before deciding between Invisalign and braces, it’s important to understand the differences between the two—and why who you choose to guide your treatment matters more than the appliance itself.
Clear Aligners vs Braces: What’s the Difference?
Both braces and clear aligners are tools used to move teeth and improve bite alignment. The key differences come down to how they work, how they’re worn, and what each one demands from the patient.
Clear Aligners (like Invisalign)
- Removable and nearly invisible
- Require 20 to 22 hours per day of wear
- Easier to brush and floss
- Must be removed to eat or drink anything other than water
- Require excellent patient compliance
- Smooth, with no metal parts to irritate cheeks or lips
Braces
- Fixed to the teeth and always working
- May be more effective for younger patients or less compliant teens
- Require careful brushing and flossing around brackets
- No need to remove for meals, but food restrictions apply
- Can treat all levels of bite issues with excellent control
Are Clear Aligners Only for Mild Cases?
Not when you see a specialist.
Clear aligners have evolved significantly in recent years, and with the right treatment planning, they can now handle everything from crowding and spacing to open bites, crossbites, and even surgical cases.
However, results with clear aligners vary dramatically depending on the provider. Many general dentists offer Invisalign after taking a weekend certification course—but they’re not trained to move jaws, diagnose skeletal issues, or handle complex bite problems, even when they tell you they can, often they will just leave certain problems unaddressed.
Dr. Eric Strouse is a specialist with years of full-time residency training in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. He routinely treats patients with clear aligners who were told elsewhere that aligners weren’t an option. As a national speaker on clear aligner biomechanics, he understands how to plan and execute these cases to the highest standard.
Why See an Orthodontist?
Orthodontists are dental specialists who complete 2 to 3 years of additional training after dental school, focusing exclusively on tooth movement, bite correction, and facial growth. This distinction is critical when deciding who to trust with your smile.
General dentists are trained in overall oral health, but not in the complexities of orthodontic movement. That’s why even the best appliance (like Invisalign) may not deliver the best results—unless it’s in the hands of an expert.
When you choose Strouse Orthodontics, you're getting:
- An orthodontic specialist
- Nationally recognized expertise in clear aligners
- A custom treatment plan designed specifically for your bite
- Options that fit your goals, lifestyle, and long-term health
Which One Is Better for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but there is a right answer for your unique case. The best way to know whether clear aligners or braces are right for you is to schedule a consultation with a specialist who offers both.
At Strouse Orthodontics, we’ll evaluate your teeth, bite, and facial structure using advanced digital scans and give you honest recommendations. We’ll also discuss your lifestyle, goals, and budget to help you decide which option makes the most sense.
Book Your Free Consultation
Still wondering whether Invisalign is better than braces? Let us help you decide with confidence.
Call Strouse Orthodontics at 352-688-0331 or schedule your free consultation at www.strouseorthodontics.com
We proudly serve patients of all ages in Spring Hill, Lecanto, and surrounding Florida communities.