Top Orthodontic Treatments for Boston Families: Braces vs. Invisalign Explained

Choosing the right orthodontic treatment for your family represents one of the most important decisions you’ll make for long-term oral health and confidence. As a board-certified prosthodontist who has worked extensively with orthodontic cases throughout my career at Tufts University and now at The Face Dental Group in Boston, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the right treatment can transform not just smiles, but lives.

The orthodontic landscape has evolved dramatically in recent years, with the global market projected to reach $20.18 billion by 2034—nearly triple its current value. This growth reflects not only increasing awareness of oral health but also remarkable innovations in treatment options. For Boston families navigating this decision, understanding the differences between traditional braces and Invisalign clear aligners is essential.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about these two leading orthodontic treatments, helping you make an informed decision for your family’s unique needs.

The Current State of Orthodontics: What Boston Families Need to Know

The orthodontic field is experiencing unprecedented momentum. Patient numbers reached record highs in 2024, with approximately 6.66 million people in active treatment nationwide. What’s particularly relevant for Boston families is that the Northeast region shows strong orthodontic utilization, with 19.8% of the population using treatments like braces or aligners.

This high engagement rate reflects several factors unique to our region: access to world-class dental professionals, a population that values preventive and aesthetic dentistry, and the cultural emphasis on comprehensive healthcare that characterizes the Boston area.

The Growing Adult Treatment Trend

While orthodontics has traditionally been associated with teenagers, adult treatment has surged dramatically. Currently, 1.91 million US adults are in active orthodontic treatment, up from 1.64 million just two years ago. In fact, approximately one in three adults has either undergone or is currently pursuing orthodontic treatment.

This trend resonates strongly in Boston, where professionals understand that a confident smile can impact career opportunities, social interactions, and overall quality of life. At The Face Dental Group, we’ve seen this shift firsthand, with adult patients increasingly seeking orthodontic solutions that fit their lifestyle and professional image.

Traditional Braces: The Time-Tested Solution

Traditional braces have been the gold standard in orthodontics for decades, and for good reason. These fixed appliances consist of brackets bonded to teeth and connected by wires that gradually move teeth into proper alignment.

How Traditional Braces Work

Braces apply continuous, controlled pressure to teeth over time, slowly repositioning them within the jawbone. Modern braces have evolved significantly from their predecessors, now offering options including:

• Metal braces: The most traditional and cost-effective option, featuring stainless steel brackets and wires
• Ceramic braces: Tooth-colored brackets that blend more naturally with your smile
• Lingual braces: Brackets placed on the back of teeth for maximum discretion

Advantages of Traditional Braces

From my experience treating complex cases requiring full mouth rehabilitation and digital dentistry at The Face Dental Group, braces offer several distinct advantages:

Superior for Complex Cases: Braces remain the most effective treatment for severe crowding, significant bite issues, and complex jaw alignment problems. The fixed nature of the appliance provides constant, predictable force that’s essential for these challenging corrections.

No Compliance Issues: Because braces are permanently attached, there’s no risk of forgetting to wear them. This makes them particularly suitable for children and teenagers who might struggle with the discipline required for removable aligners.

Effective for All Ages: While adults can certainly benefit from braces, they’re especially well-suited for younger patients whose bones are still developing, allowing for more comprehensive corrections including jaw repositioning.

Durability: Braces can withstand the active lifestyle of children and teenagers without risk of loss or damage that comes with removable appliances.

Considerations with Traditional Braces

It’s important to understand the commitment involved with braces:

Visibility: Even ceramic braces are more noticeable than clear aligners, which can be a concern for image-conscious teenagers and adults.

Treatment Duration: Most cases require 18-36 months of treatment, with regular adjustment appointments every 4-8 weeks.

Dietary Restrictions: Certain foods must be avoided to prevent bracket damage, including hard, sticky, or chewy items.

Oral Hygiene Challenges: Cleaning around brackets and wires requires extra time and special tools like floss threaders and interdental brushes.

Invisalign: The Modern Alternative

Invisalign and similar clear aligner systems represent one of the most significant innovations in orthodontics. These custom-made, transparent trays gradually shift teeth into position through a series of progressively adjusted aligners.

How Invisalign Works

The Invisalign process begins with digital scanning—a technology we’ve fully integrated into our practice at The Face Dental Group. Using advanced 3D imaging, we create a precise digital model of your teeth and design a complete treatment plan showing the projected movement from start to finish.

Custom aligners are then fabricated to implement this plan, with each set worn for approximately two weeks before progressing to the next in the series. The aligners are virtually invisible and removable, offering unprecedented flexibility.

Advantages of Invisalign for Boston Families

Clear aligners have become increasingly popular, and the benefits are compelling:

Aesthetic Appeal: The near-invisibility of Invisalign aligners addresses the primary concern many adults and teenagers have about orthodontic treatment. This discretion is particularly valued by Boston professionals who want to improve their smile without impacting their professional image.

Convenience for Busy Schedules: Digital technology has reduced the average number of appointments by approximately seven visits per patient compared to traditional braces. For Boston families juggling work, school, and extracurricular activities, this time savings is significant.

Removability: Aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, and special occasions. This means no dietary restrictions and easier oral hygiene maintenance—you simply brush and floss as normal.

Comfort: Without brackets and wires, there are no sharp edges to irritate soft tissues, and many patients report less overall discomfort compared to traditional braces.

Shorter Treatment Times: For mild to moderate cases, Invisalign often achieves results in 12-24 months, faster than traditional braces for comparable issues.

Considerations with Invisalign

While Invisalign offers impressive advantages, it’s not suitable for everyone:

Compliance Requirements: Success depends on wearing aligners 20-22 hours daily. This requires discipline that younger children may lack and busy adults may find challenging to maintain consistently.

Case Limitations: While Invisalign technology has advanced significantly, severe bite issues, complex rotations, and significant jaw discrepancies may still require traditional braces for optimal results.

Responsibility Factor: Removable aligners can be lost or damaged, potentially extending treatment time and incurring replacement costs.

Treatment Comparison: Making the Right Choice

Having completed my doctorate at the University of Freiburg with extensive research in prosthodontics and digital dentistry, I approach treatment planning with a comprehensive, evidence-based methodology. Here’s a detailed comparison to guide your decision:

Treatment Effectiveness

Braces excel at:

• Severe crowding or spacing issues
• Complex bite corrections (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
• Significant rotations
• Cases requiring tooth extraction
• Jaw repositioning

Invisalign excels at:

• Mild to moderate crowding or spacing
• Minor bite corrections
• Relapse prevention after previous orthodontic treatment
• Cases where aesthetics during treatment is paramount

Treatment Duration and Appointments

Traditional braces typically require 18-36 months with appointments every 4-8 weeks for adjustments. Recent data shows that practices are working to improve efficiency, but the physical nature of adjustments means frequent visits remain necessary.

Invisalign treatment often ranges from 12-24 months for appropriate cases, with check-ins typically every 6-10 weeks. The digital customization means fewer emergency visits for broken brackets or poking wires, saving busy Boston families valuable time.

Cost Considerations

Both treatment options have seen fee increases in 2024, reflecting rising operational costs and the advanced technology now standard in modern orthodontic care. Generally, costs are comparable for similar cases, typically ranging from $3,000 to $8,000 depending on complexity and duration.

Many practices, including The Face Dental Group, offer financing options to make treatment accessible. Additionally, many dental insurance plans now provide orthodontic benefits for both children and adults, though coverage varies significantly.

Lifestyle Impact

For athletes, musicians, and those with active lifestyles, both options have considerations. Braces require mouthguards for contact sports and may affect certain musical instruments initially. Invisalign aligners can be removed for these activities but must be replaced immediately afterward to maintain treatment progress.

For Boston families with children in school sports or music programs, discussing these factors during your consultation is essential for realistic treatment planning.

Age-Specific Recommendations

Children and Young Teenagers (Ages 7-14)

Traditional braces are often the preferred choice for this age group. Children’s developing bones respond exceptionally well to orthodontic intervention, and the fixed nature of braces eliminates compliance concerns. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial evaluation by age 7 to identify potential issues early.

Older Teenagers (Ages 15-18)

This age group has options. Mature teenagers who demonstrate responsibility may be excellent candidates for Invisalign, particularly if they’re concerned about aesthetics during high school. However, if compliance is questionable or the case is complex, braces remain the better choice.

Adults

Adult orthodontics has experienced remarkable growth, with treatments increasing by nearly 17% in just two years. Adults typically prefer Invisalign due to professional and social considerations, and their maturity generally ensures excellent compliance. However, adults with severe issues or previous dental work may require traditional braces or a combination approach.

The Role of Digital Dentistry in Modern Orthodontics

As someone deeply invested in digital dentistry and advanced prosthodontic techniques, I’ve witnessed how technology has revolutionized orthodontic treatment planning and execution. At The Face Dental Group, we utilize cutting-edge digital tools including:

• 3D Imaging and Scanning: Eliminates uncomfortable impressions while providing unprecedented accuracy
• Virtual Treatment Planning: Allows you to visualize your final results before beginning treatment
• Digital Monitoring: Reduces appointment frequency while maintaining treatment quality
• Integration with Comprehensive Care: Digital workflows connect orthodontic treatment with other dental procedures for optimal outcomes

This digital integration is particularly important for patients requiring comprehensive smile makeovers or full mouth rehabilitation, where orthodontics represents one component of a larger treatment plan.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

A thorough orthodontic consultation should include:

1. Comprehensive Examination: Clinical assessment of teeth, bite, jaw relationship, and facial structure
2. Digital Records: Photos, x-rays, and digital scans or impressions
3. Discussion of Concerns: Your specific goals and concerns guide treatment recommendations
4. Treatment Options: Presentation of suitable approaches with expected timelines and outcomes
5. Financial Planning: Clear cost breakdown and payment options

At The Face Dental Group, our consultations are comprehensive because we recognize that orthodontic treatment often intersects with other dental needs. My training in prosthodontics, implantology, and cosmetic dentistry allows me to develop integrated treatment plans that address all aspects of oral health and aesthetics.

Post-Treatment: Retention is Critical

Regardless of whether you choose braces or Invisalign, retention is essential for maintaining your results. After active treatment, retainers prevent teeth from shifting back toward their original positions—a natural tendency called relapse.

Both treatment approaches typically conclude with retainers, which may be removable or fixed. Compliance with retention protocols is just as important as compliance during active treatment, ensuring your investment delivers lasting results.

Making Your Decision: Questions to Ask

When evaluating orthodontic options for your family, consider asking:

• What is the recommended treatment approach and why?
• What is the estimated treatment duration?
• What is the expected outcome, and can I see visualizations?
• What are the costs, and what payment options are available?
• What happens if compliance is challenging or appliances are lost?
• How does this treatment integrate with any other dental needs?
• What is your experience with cases similar to mine?

The Boston Advantage: Access to Expert Care

Boston families benefit from access to some of the world’s leading dental professionals and cutting-edge technology. The concentration of dental schools, including Tufts University where I completed my dental education, creates an environment of innovation and excellence that elevates the standard of care throughout the region.

The 19.8% orthodontic utilization rate in the Northeast reflects this access to quality care and the region’s commitment to oral health. Whether you choose braces or Invisalign, selecting a qualified provider with advanced training ensures optimal results.

Ready to Transform Your Family’s Smiles?

Choosing between braces and Invisalign represents an important decision that affects not only aesthetics but also oral health, function, and confidence. While this guide provides comprehensive information, nothing replaces a personalized evaluation by an experienced dental professional who can assess your specific needs and goals.

At The Face Dental Group in Boston, we combine advanced training, cutting-edge digital technology, and a comprehensive approach to dental care. As a board-certified prosthodontist with doctoral training from the University of Freiburg and dental education from Tufts University, I bring a unique perspective that integrates orthodontic considerations with overall oral health and facial aesthetics.

Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself, your teenager, or your entire family, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process. Our expertise in digital dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and comprehensive smile makeovers allows us to develop treatment plans that address your

Frequently Asked Questions