Invisalign vs Traditional Braces: What Should You Choose in Greenville, NC?

Quick answer: Invisalign is a great option for many mild-to-moderate alignment cases and patients who want a more discreet look. Traditional braces are often better for complex tooth movement and bite correction. The best choice depends on your bite, goals, lifestyle, and how consistently you’ll wear aligners.

If you’re trying to decide between braces and Invisalign, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions we hear at Pruitt & Earp Dentistry. Both options can straighten teeth and improve your smile, but they work differently—and each has advantages depending on your situation.

What Invisalign and braces both do well

Both Invisalign and traditional braces are designed to move teeth into healthier, more attractive positions. Depending on your case, treatment can improve:

• Tooth alignment and crowding
• Spacing between teeth
• Bite function (how upper and lower teeth fit together)
• Smile aesthetics and long-term cleanability

The real question is not “Which one works?” It’s: Which one works best for your needs?

How we evaluate your bite before recommending treatment

Before choosing Invisalign or braces, your dentist needs to evaluate your current tooth position, bite alignment, and treatment goals. This is where digital X-rays and a thorough exam are so important.

At Pruitt & Earp Dentistry, we use diagnostic imaging and a personalized exam to understand what movements are needed and whether clear aligners or braces will be the better fit.

Invisalign: best for appearance and flexibility

Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to move your teeth gradually over time. Many patients prefer it because it’s subtle and easy to remove for meals and brushing.

Benefits of Invisalign

• Discreet appearance: Clear aligners are much less noticeable than metal braces.
• Removable: You can take them out for eating, brushing, and flossing.
• No food restrictions: Since aligners come out for meals, you can eat normally.
• Smooth edges: Many patients find aligners comfortable compared to brackets and wires.

Things to consider with Invisalign

• Consistency matters: Aligners only work well if worn as directed (usually most of the day).
• Not ideal for every case: Some complex movements may be better treated with braces.
• Easy to misplace: Since they’re removable, they require responsibility.

Learn more about your options here: Invisalign at Pruitt & Earp Dentistry.

Traditional braces: strong control for complex movement

Traditional braces use brackets and wires to guide teeth into position. They remain one of the most effective tools for treating more advanced alignment and bite issues.

Benefits of braces

• Excellent control: Braces can move teeth predictably in complex cases.
• No compliance issue: They stay on, so treatment continues 24/7.
• Often ideal for bite correction: Especially in cases involving rotations, spacing, or major crowding.

Things to consider with braces

• More visible: Braces are more noticeable than clear aligners.
• Food restrictions: Sticky and hard foods can break brackets or wires.
• Cleaning takes more effort: Plaque can build up around brackets, so hygiene is extra important.

Which is better for your lifestyle?

Sometimes the right choice comes down to your daily habits and preferences—not just the bite alone.

Invisalign may be a better fit if you:

• Want a more discreet treatment option
• Can wear aligners consistently every day
• Prefer easier brushing and flossing
• Have mild-to-moderate crowding or spacing

Braces may be a better fit if you:

• Have more complex alignment or bite issues
• Prefer a treatment that doesn’t depend on removing/replacing aligners
• Want predictable movement for difficult tooth positions

How we help you decide at Pruitt & Earp Dentistry

At Pruitt & Earp Dentistry, we don’t push a one-size-fits-all solution. We evaluate your bite, your goals, your timeline, and your comfort preferences—then help you choose the option that gives you the best long-term result.

If you’re searching for braces Greenville NC patients trust, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each option and answer your questions clearly.

Helpful reading:

Traditional braces vs Invisalign for mild-to-moderate tooth movement

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FAQ.

FAQs

Is Invisalign faster than braces?

It depends on the case. Some mild cases move quickly with Invisalign, while more complex cases may be more efficient with braces.

Are braces cheaper than Invisalign?

Costs vary by case complexity and treatment length. The best way to compare is with an exam and treatment plan.

Can adults get braces or Invisalign?

Yes. Many adults choose orthodontic treatment to improve alignment, chewing, and smile appearance.

Schedule an orthodontic consultation in Greenville, NC

If you’re deciding between Invisalign and braces, schedule a consultation with Pruitt & Earp Dentistry. We’ll help you choose the option that fits your bite and your lifestyle.

Next step: Book here:
Contact us.

Medical disclaimer: This article is educational and not a diagnosis. Orthodontic treatment recommendations should be based on an in-person exam and diagnostic imaging.