Straight Talk: Comparing Invisalign vs. Regular Braces at Lumos Dental
Edmonton, Canada - August 6, 2025 / Lumos Dental /
Edmonton, AB — Lumos Dental, a family-focused dental clinic based in Mill Creek, is providing patients with a clear, easy-to-understand comparison between Invisalign clear aligners and traditional braces. As orthodontic care becomes more accessible, more people are exploring the difference between braces and Invisalign. The clinic supports patients in choosing the right orthodontic treatment by explaining how each method works, what results to expect, and how each option fits into daily life.
Why Teeth Alignment Matters for Long-Term Oral Health
Tooth misalignment can cause more than simply aesthetic issues. Poor alignment increases the risk of gum disease and tooth decay by making it more difficult to clean in between teeth. It can also place uneven pressure on jaw joints, sometimes leading to pain or long-term jaw issues like TMJ disorders.
Orthodontic treatments, whether through clear aligners or braces, help correct spacing, crowding, and bite issues. Fixing these problems improves the appearance of a smile and reduces the risk of future dental complications.
Comparing Invisalign Clear Aligners and Traditional Braces
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign clear aligners are removable plastic trays that fit snugly over the teeth. They work by gradually shifting teeth into better positions using gentle pressure. Each tray is typically worn for one to two weeks before switching to the next in the series.
Patients are required to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day; they can only take them off to brush, floss, eat, and drink. These trays are best for mild to moderate dental corrections, such as small gaps, crowding, or minor bite problems. According to recent studies, clear aligner therapy has a success rate of 80–90% for mild to moderate tooth movements.
Regular Braces
Conventional braces are made out of brackets made of ceramic or metal that are wired to each tooth. Braces are adjusted over time by a dental professional to guide teeth into proper alignment.
Braces are better suited for complex dental issues, such as severe crowding or major bite problems. While they are fixed in place and require more cleaning effort, they allow for more precise tooth movement. Braces are also used when patient compliance with removable aligners is difficult.
Key Differences: Invisalign vs. Regular Braces
The Invisalign vs. regular braces comparison often centers around three main categories:
Appearance: Invisalign trays are nearly invisible, while metal braces are more noticeable. Ceramic braces are a less visible alternative.
Comfort: Aligners have a smooth surface, reducing irritation, while braces may cause some soreness after adjustments.
Maintenance: Aligners are removed for brushing and flossing. Braces require more effort to clean around brackets and wires.
Treatment Timeline and Costs
The length of treatment varies according to each case's intricacy. While braces may take 18 to 24 months or more, Invisalign usually takes 12 to 18 months. Costs are similar for both options and depend on the patient’s condition and insurance coverage.
Lumos Dental follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide and offers direct billing to help reduce out-of-pocket costs. The clinic accepts government plans such as CDCP and AISH, making orthodontic care more accessible to families in Edmonton.
Why Patients in Edmonton Choose Lumos Dental
Lumos Dental has become a trusted choice for orthodontic care in the community thanks to its modern approach, flexible scheduling, and patient-centred care. Patients benefit from:
Free Invisalign consultations
Direct insurance billing
Acceptance of the CDCP and AISH plans
Evening and Saturday appointments
A paperless office experience near Mill Creek
The practice is led by Dr. Taka Shah, who focuses on preventive care and uses modern dental tools to offer precise and comfortable treatments.
Conditions Invisalign Clear Aligners Can Address
Invisalign is designed to treat:
Spacing issues
Mild to moderate crowding
Overbite, underbite, and crossbite
Open bite
During the initial consultation, Lumos Dental performs a digital scan to capture a 3D model of the patient’s teeth. They also discuss alignment goals, treatment options, and expected outcomes.
Book an Appointment with Lumos Dental
Patients interested in learning more about clear aligners vs. braces can book a complimentary consultation with Lumos Dental. Each treatment is customized to the patient’s goals, dental condition, and lifestyle.
To schedule an appointment, contact Lumos Dental at (780) 433-0222 or visit the Contact Page. The team is available to assist you with exploring the right orthodontic option for your smile.
Contact Information:
Lumos Dental
9562 Whyte Ave NW #205
Edmonton, AB T6C 0Z8
Canada
Dr Taka Shah
https://lumosdental.ca/
Original Source: https://lumosdental.ca/invisalign/straight-talk-comparing-invisalign-vs-regular-braces-at-lumos-dental/
