It’s one of the most common questions we hear from families considering orthodontic treatment in Everett, Marysville, and Mill Creek: “Are clear aligners like Invisalign really as good as old-fashioned braces?”
For years, traditional metal braces were the undisputed champion of teeth straightening. They are reliable, powerful, and effective. But with the incredible advancements in clear aligner technology, the game has changed. Many patients are drawn to the discreet, comfortable, and convenient nature of Invisalign, but they worry they might be sacrificing results for aesthetics.
So, let’s settle the debate.
The definitive answer is: Yes, when your treatment is planned and managed by a board-certified orthodontic specialist like Dr. Sogol, the Invisalign system is just as effective as traditional braces for the vast majority of orthodontic cases.
The key to that sentence isn’t just the appliance—it’s the specialist and the specific system being used. The success of your treatment comes from the expert knowledge of your orthodontist combined with the predictable, powerful technology they have at their command.
Not All Clear Aligners Are Created Equal: Why We Trust Invisalign®
While other clear aligner brands exist, it’s crucial for patients in Everett to understand that Invisalign is the undisputed leader and pioneer of the industry for several key reasons. It’s not just a brand name; it’s a complete, sophisticated system backed by decades of research and data from millions of successful cases worldwide.
Here’s why Invisalign stands apart:
- Patented SmartTrack® Material: Generic aligners are made from simple plastic. Invisalign’s SmartTrack material is a highly elastic, patented thermoplastic designed exclusively for their aligners. It provides more gentle, constant force to move teeth more comfortably and predictably. This material gives Dr. Sogol superior control over your treatment from start to finish.
- Advanced ClinCheck® Software: This powerful 3D treatment planning software is the engine of the Invisalign system. It allows Dr. Sogol to map out your treatment with incredible precision, customizing the movement of each tooth. The software’s algorithms are informed by a database of over 15 million smiles, leading to highly reliable and predictable outcomes.
- Exclusive SmartForce® Attachments: These tiny, tooth-colored handles are a critical part of the system. They allow the aligners to grip the teeth and perform complex movements—like rotating a stubborn tooth or correcting a deep bite—that are simply not possible with basic, over-the-counter aligner systems.
When you choose Invisalign at AlignChoice Orthodontics, you are choosing the most advanced and proven clear aligner system on the market.
You Ask, We Answer: Your Invisalign Questions for Our Everett Orthodontists
We believe the best patient is an informed patient. Here are quick answers to your most common questions.
Q: How much does Invisalign cost in the Everett, WA area?
A: At AlignChoice Orthodontics, we believe your choice of treatment should be based on your lifestyle, not your budget. That’s why we offer Invisalign and traditional braces for the same fee. This is unique, as many offices charge more for Invisalign due to high lab fees. As a Top Invisalign Provider, we receive better lab fees and pass that savings directly to you. This removes the financial burden, allowing you to choose the best option for your needs. We are offering payment plans as low as $99 per month. Learn more.
Q: How long does Invisalign treatment take compared to braces?
A: Treatment time is unique to each patient. For many, Invisalign treatment can be completed in the same timeframe as braces, and sometimes even faster due to the system’s efficiency. The average treatment is about 12 to 18 months, but Dr. Sogol can treat simpler cases in as little as six months. She will give you a clear timeline during your initial evaluation.
Q: Does Invisalign hurt?
A: While moving teeth will always cause some temporary pressure, most patients find Invisalign to be significantly more comfortable than braces. There are no metal brackets or wires to cause irritation to your cheeks and gums. The feeling is best described as gentle pressure for the first day or so after switching to a new set of aligners, which is a sign that the system is working.
Q: I have a complex case. Am I still a candidate for Invisalign?
A: You might be surprised! The Invisalign system, with its advanced SmartForce and SmartTrack technology, can now treat a very wide range of complex orthodontic issues. While some severe cases may still require braces, many bite and alignment problems once thought to be too difficult are now effectively treated with Invisalign. A personal consultation with a board-certified specialist like Dr. Sogol is the only way to know for sure.
Q: Can my teenager in Marysville handle the responsibility of Invisalign?
A: Today’s teens are often excellent and highly motivated Invisalign patients. They love the freedom from food restrictions and the nearly invisible appearance. The aligners also have small, optional blue compliance indicators that fade with wear, giving parents and Dr. Sogol a quick visual check on wear time. For most teens in the Mill Creek and Marysville area, the benefits make them responsible and successful patients.
The AlignChoice Orthodontics Difference: Board-Certified Care
At AlignChoice Orthodontics, your care is led by Dr. Sogol, a board-certified orthodontist. This distinction is significant, representing the highest commitment to quality patient care and orthodontic excellence beyond the mandatory requirements of a specialist.
Our team, led by Dr. Sogol and including an on-site specialist in TMJ care and orofacial pain, has the advanced training to see the big picture. We don’t just see crooked teeth; we see how your bite, jaw joints, and airway function together. This holistic approach ensures your treatment plan results in a smile that is not only beautiful but also healthy and stable for the long term.
Ready to Find Your Best Smile in Everett, WA?
If you’re ready to explore your options for a straighter, healthier smile with the leading clear aligner system, we invite you to take the next step.
Schedule your complimentary, no-obligation consultation with Dr. Sogol at AlignChoice Orthodontics in Everett today! We can’t wait to help our neighbors in Marysville, Mill Creek, and beyond achieve the confident smile they truly deserve.