Invisalign vs braces

Invisalign vs braces in Concord

Patients ask me this constantly: braces or Invisalign? Here's how I explain it.

Schedule Your Consultation Call (925) 722-6517

Open the scheduler, choose “I'm a New Patient,” then select “Orthodontic/Invisalign Consult.”

An adult patient holding a clear aligner

Clear aligners

Why most people here choose Invisalign

Faster: Invisalign is generally faster because each tooth can move independently — rather than being connected on a single wire like braces. Think of a football or soccer team: individual players can move on their own instead of being wired together.
Appointments: You typically come in every 2–4 months.
Esthetics: It’s more esthetic — no metal brackets on the teeth.
Eating: You can eat what you want. The rules are simple: don’t sip or drink sugary drinks with the trays in, and brush your teeth and trays after you eat.
Comfort: Invisalign is generally more comfortable than braces. We cannot promise zero discomfort — expect soreness when changing trays — but most patients report it’s a better experience than braces.

Treatment scope

Nearly all cases can be treated

Nearly all cases can be treated. For many cases, we consider non-surgical options.

For how we plan clear aligners — including attachments — see our Invisalign page.

This practice

Who this office is for

Come here if you don't want braces. If you want braces, we are not the right office for you. If you're unsure, come for a consult — we'll evaluate your bite and goals and tell you straight.

Attachments

The white squares / bumps

Expect white squares and bumps on the teeth — typically on every tooth. That's how Invisalign moves teeth predictably.

Signature protocol: patients who want to maximize esthetics can place attachments on the back of the front teeth when they're a candidate.

Back-of-tooth placement

Most qualify; not everyone does.
I still place some on the front when a tooth needs it to move.
Back placement is a privilege — noncompliant or not clinically appropriate, we won’t do it.

Front attachments

Same patient — trays on vs trays off.