Invisalign® vs Braces: What's the Difference?



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Understanding Options for Straightening Teeth

Certified Invisalign® Providers in Manchester, CT

If you’re looking for a way to straighten your smile, you are likely considering several different options that are available including Invisalign® treatment and traditional metal braces. With these two options you may ultimately get similar results, but the experience you have along the way will differ greatly. The team at Buckland Hills Dental is here to help you achieve the smile of your dreams, and we are proud to be able to answer your questions about the differences between these two teeth straightening treatment options. 

The Difference Between Invisalign® and Braces

Both Invisalign® and traditional braces use pressure to ease your teeth into alignment over an extended period of time. The main difference between Invisalign® and braces is that Invisalign® uses clear, plastic aligners instead of metal brackets and wires. While Invisalign® treatment uses a series of plastic aligners that must be swapped out every 1-2 weeks, traditional braces require a dentist/orthodontist to periodically tighten the wires that are pulling teeth into position. 

Benefits of Invisalign® 

There are several great benefits to using Invisalign® aligners to straighten your teeth. These include:

Discreet appearance. Invisalign® treatment is a great option for patients who are looking for a less noticeable way to straighten their teeth. The clear, plastic aligners are virtually invisible, so no one will be able to tell that you’re wearing them. 

Flexibility. Invisalign® aligners are removable, so you can take them out to eat and brush your teeth with ease. No worrying about food particles getting trapped in difficult places.

Shorter treatment times. Another great benefit of Invisalign® is that the treatment process is often shorter than traditional braces. On average, patients who choose Invisalign® will finish their treatment in about 12 months.

Benefits of Traditional Braces

Invisalign®'s benefits are hard to beat. That being said, there are some great reasons why patients might opt for traditional braces as well. These include:

Cost. On average, traditional braces are less expensive than Invisalign® treatment.

Permanence. Because traditional braces are not removable, patients do not have to worry about losing or misplacing them. This might be a better option for forgetful types!

No compliance required. Patients who choose traditional braces do not have to be as diligent about wearing their aligners for the required 22 hours per day because they cannot be removed. 

Buckland Hills Dental Can Find Your Ideal Treatment Plan

The team at Buckland Hills Dental is here to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. As a certified Invisalign® provider, we will work with you to find the ideal treatment plan based on your individual needs and goals. If you have any questions about Invisalign® treatment, please don’t hesitate to contact us today! We look forward to hearing from you.

For more information about Invisalign® and braces, or to schedule an appointment, call us at (860) 644-0099 or click the button to the right to go to our contact page.

Why Choose Us?

There are a variety of reasons that patients trust us with their dental care. Just a few of these reasons include:

Over 13 Years Experience


Over 25 Years of Experience

Licensed Staff Members


Licensed Staff Members

English & Korean Speaking


English & Korean Speaking Staff

Financing Plans Available


Financing Plans Available 

Certified Invisalign Provider


Certified Invisalign® Provider

Academy of General Dentistry Member


Academy of General Dentistry Member

Read Our Patient Reviews



"Great  experience. A little nervous about the dentist in the mall at first, but Andre at the front desk was friendly, welcoming and answered all my questions. Dr. Kim is excellent. He is very friendly, very smart and clearly cares about his patients. And after checking around a bit, the price was a little better than some and a lot better than others. Couldn't be happier."

- David W.

"So professional they know what they are doing.  I even had a cavity and everyone knows the worst part is needles in the mouth ...if I had these folks as a kid I wouldn’t always be so scared ...I didn’t feel a thing then I went numb.  Quick and thorough and they always want you to be comfortable throughout and with the work they do.  Expert craftsmanship is an understatement."

- Melinda T.

"Everyone in this practice is exceptionally compassionate in their care, and I’m very satisfied with the restoration of my oral health. Dr. Chi works incredibly gently, and is never judgmental, nor condescending when discussing my oral hygiene. She always takes the time to understand and respond to any question I have, and I would recommend Dr. Chi to anyone who hates going to the dentist."

- Matthew G.

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Our Financing and Payment Options

Your dental and oral health has a huge impact on your overall well-being, and keeping your mouth healthy should be a major priority for all of us. Our goal is that no patient ever neglects to get the dental care they need because they're worried about the cost of services. That's why we not only accept a range of major insurances along with cash and credit, we also offer financing options and our in-house "Smile Savings" Program. Learn more about our wide range of payment and financing options and let us help you find the perfect solution for your dental care. 

Our office can also accept all major credit cards, including CareCredit health and wellness credit card, to help cover the cost of your care.

We accept a variety of major insurances so that no matter what company you're covered under, we can provide affordable care for you.

No insurance? No problem. Consider taking advantage of our "Smile Savings" Program, where an affordable annual payment covers your exams, cleanings, and more.

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