What does it mean to be a Top 1% Diamond Plus Invisalign Provider?

Only practices that treat nearly 1000 patients annually with Invisalign are qualified to be a Top 1% Diamond Plus Invisalign provider. This distinction is important because it means we have more experience working with Invisalign than 99% of all other practitioners. You know you’re getting Invisalign treatment from orthodontists who have vast experience correcting bites and smiles with Invisalign. You’ll have confidence that we will design the perfect treatment for you AND that your results will be in line with your expectations of us.

Isn’t Invisalign expensive?

Cost is one area where MKY Orthodontics shines. Many providers upcharge for providing treatment with Invisalign, but we choose to offer this revolutionary solution to patients of all ages for the same cost as traditional braces. It is important to us that our patients have options and that their orthodontic journey fits in with the rythm of their family's lifestyle. Cost shouldn't stand in the way of a great smile. To learn more about our flexible financing for Invisalign at both our Mount Holly and Moorestown locations, visit our fiancing page here.

Can Invisalign work for my orthodontic needs?

Many people have been told by other providers that they aren’t a candidate for Invisalign. Because of our extensive experience treating thousands of patients and all sorts of cases with Invisalign, we’ll likely be able to find an Invisalign solution for you.

Will my teen or child actually wear their Invisalign clear aligners?

Maybe it seems like they wouldn’t, but in our experience treating hundreds of teens and children with Invisalign, we’ve found our young patients are often more compliant with their Invisalign protocol than their adult counterparts.

Does Invisalign treatment take longer than treatment with traditional braces?

For our patients who wear their Invisalign trays 20 to 22 hours per day as prescribed, their total treatment time is about as long as with traditional braces, and sometimes even faster.

What if my child starts treatment with Invisalign but wants to switch to traditional braces?

The majority of our young patients wear their aligners consistently and have fantastic outcomes. For the few kids or teens who have a little trouble wearing their aligners as directed, we give them a chance to switch to traditional braces at no additional cost during the first six months of treatment.

Do Invisalign clear aligners contain BPA?

The current research and testing by Align Technology, the creators of Invisalign, has found no latex, parabens, phthalates, glutaraldehyde, epoxy or Bisphenol A (BPA) present in Invisalign aligners or retainers. In addition, Invisalign aligners are approved by the FDA as Class II medical devices.

Will wearing Invisalign aligners affect my speech?

In the first couple of days after getting your aligners, while your tongue gets used to having them in your mouth, you may talk with a slight lisp. Don’t worry. This will go away very fast.

Can I chew gum while wearing my Invisalign aligners?

No, unfortunately. Gum sticks to the aligners. We recommend you remove the aligners before you have any meals or snacks, including chewing gum. If you think you might forget to put your aligners back in after chewing gum, you may choose to skip gum altogether during treatment.

How do I take care of my Invisalign aligners?

You should brush and rinse your aligners each time you brush your teeth. It’s critical that you brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in your mouth so that food particles don’t get trapped in your teeth, potentially causing tooth decay or other hygiene issues. Additionally, some foods may stain the aligners if not cleared from your teeth before you reinsert the aligners. Let’s keep those aligners clear!

I went on vacation and forgot to pack my aligners. Will they still fit when I get home?

It really depends on how long you go without wearing the aligners. If your trip lasted only a few days, your aligners should still fit but could possibly feel slightly uncomfortable. If you’ve been away longer, give us a call and we can talk about your unique situation and the next best steps to get you back on track as quickly as possible.

What orthodontic problems do braces correct?

Braces effectively resolve all kinds of issues, which is why they are one of our most popular treatment options. Below are a few common concerns we treat with braces: • Overcrowded or ill-spaced teeth. • Misaligned jaw. • Overbites and underbites. • Open bites. • Asymmetry of the smile. • Improper contact of the chewing surfaces of the teeth. • Issues with chewing and speech. • Reduced self-esteem due to a misaligned smile.

How long do I have to wear my braces?

Dr. Kaye and Dr. Yucha will determine the right duration of treatment for your specific situation because each person’s mouth responds differently to treatment. Depending on the type of correction, treatment with braces can take anywhere from six to 30 months. A standard treatment for braces in either our Mount Holly or Moorestown location typically takes about 22 months.

We won’t sugarcoat it: When you first get braces, you’ll feel mildly uncomfortable for a couple of days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, tongue, and mouth get used to the brackets and wires. You might live on soups, oatmeal, and applesauce for a few days. This is totally normal and won’t last too long, we promise. When you feel a pang, just picture how great it’s going to be when your treatment wraps up and you have a dazzling smile to show for it. When Dr. Kaye or Dr. Yucha periodically adjust the wires to guide your teeth, you’ll probably feel sore again for a few days. Soon you’ll be a pro at managing the short-lived discomfort, and most of the time, you’ll feel just fine.

How do I take care of my teeth while wearing braces?

Following the best practices below will ensure your treatment is as fast and effective as possible: • Brush your teeth after every meal and snack and floss at least once a day. Traditional floss can be difficult to use with braces, so check your local store for flossers designed to be used with braces. You’ll be happy you did. • To help prevent tooth decay and cavities, use toothpaste that contains fluoride or hydroxyapatite. Check with us or your family dentist to see if you’d benefit from a fluoride rinse. • During your treatment, avoid foods with a lot of sugar, like sweets or soda. Sugar fuels bad bacteria growth in your mouth, causing more plaque and possibly cavities. • Some foods can stick to or get caught in braces. Here are a few to avoid: sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy candy, taffy), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes), or other foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, bagels, ribs, etc.). It won’t be long until you can go back to eating all the foods you love. • Schedule routine checkups with your family dentist every six months.

How should I take care of my retainer?

• Keep your retainer’s case with you all the time so that when you take out your retainer to eat, you can store it safely in its container. If it’s not in your mouth, it should be in the case so it doesn’t get lost or broken. Floss and brush your teeth and retainer before putting your retainer back in your mouth. • Keeping your retainer clean is an important part of good oral health. When you brush your teeth, gently brush your retainer with dish soap. You can also soak it in retainer brite as instructed by our orthodontists. Don’t put your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher, or else you’ll be coming in for a replacement.

How often should I brush my teeth when I have braces?

Braces can trap food easily, so you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to remove any bits of food caught between the braces or in your teeth. Flossing daily is critical to clean all the nooks and crannies where your brush can’t reach. The orthodontist will show you how to properly brush and floss once your braces are placed. A thorough brushing and flossing routine is the best way to prevent tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease. When your oral hygiene is up to snuff, your smile will shine and your teeth, gums, and mouth will stay healthy.

Do I still need to get regular dental checkups while wearing braces?

Do you ever! In fact, it's even more important that orthodontic patients visit their dentist regularly because braces make brushing and flossing trickier. Bits of food caught where your toothbrush can't reach cause bacteria to build up, leading to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist and orthodontist work together to help you keep your teeth clean and healthy while wearing braces.

Does wearing braces interfere with activities such as sports or playing an instrument?

Some people worry they’ll have to give up their favorite activities after they get their braces on. Rest assured, wearing braces won’t prevent you from participating in any of the activities you love. Because the position of the mouth and tongue affects how you play certain instruments, you may take a little time to adjust to playing with your braces on. Soon you’ll play as well as you did before. Braces won’t get in the way of playing sports, but we strongly recommend that you wear a mouthguard while playing contact sports to protect your mouth, braces, or any other appliance.

My teeth feel slightly loose. Is that a problem?

Not to worry—this sensation is completely normal and is expected. In order to change the alignment of your teeth in your mouth, your braces must first loosen your teeth before they can move them into the right position. Once your teeth have been repositioned, the surrounding tissue will retighten and will feel the way it usually does.

What orthodontic issues in children can orthodontists treat?

Orthodontic care straightens teeth, but planning for straight teeth is only the tip of the iceberg when assessing a child’s orthodontic health. Early interceptive treatment addresses alignment of the jaw, facial irregularities, and breathing pathways. Having an aligned jaw with straight teeth that fit together properly makes it much easier for your child to talk and eat. Corrected teeth are much easier to keep clean and develop much less wear and tear. A beautiful smile boosts children’s confidence and increases their self-esteem.

How does my child’s growth affect their orthodontic treatment?

Children’s rapid growth is the foundation of early interceptive treatment. Our doctors can take advantage of the fact that children’s jaws and teeth are already deep in the process of development: guide now rather than modify later. Orthodontic treatment is a great idea at any age, but starting care in childhood means children’s natural growth patterns support and speed up their treatment.

How often will I need to bring my child in for their appointments?

The precise number of appointments your child needs will depend on their custom treatment plan and the way their mouth responds to treatment. We typically schedule orthodontic appointments for children from once a month to once every three months. The number and frequency of appointments your child will need may also change throughout the treatment. At each appointment, Dr. Kaye or Dr. Yucha will check your child’s appliances and assess their treatment progress. Your child may also get their braces cleaned, have their teeth flossed, and get replacement wires or elastics. We always leave time for you and your child to ask questions and express concerns. We want to make sure the treatment is working for your family and that you have a clear understanding of your child’s plan and progress

Can my child continue playing their instrument or their favorite sports?

Without a doubt. Your child can absolutely play sports or an instrument even while they have braces. If a child plays an instrument with their mouth (like a trumpet or clarinet), they may take a few days to get used to playing while wearing their braces or Invisalign clear aligners. They’ll soon get the hang of it and won’t notice much of a difference. We recommend children wear mouthguards when playing sports to protect their appliances and their teeth from injuries. If your child does get a mouth injury while they have braces, call our office right away. We’ll help you make sure there’s no damage that will delay your child’s treatment.

What foods should my child avoid while getting orthodontic treatment?

Right after your child gets braces or after routine adjustments, their mouth will feel sensitive and they’ll probably want to eat soft foods for a few days. Be a hero and throw in some soft-serve ice cream with dinner. After a short while, your child can resume eating normally with a few exceptions. Have your child pass on popcorn and crunchy snacks like pretzels, chips, nuts, and crunchy veggies. They shouldn’t eat chewy and gummy candy, chewing gum, hard candy, or ice. These types of foods can get stuck in braces, damage the brackets or archwires, or pull a bracket off the tooth.

How does orthodontic treatment affect my child’s oral hygiene routine?

Food can easily get stuck in braces, so regular and thorough brushing is very important. Your child should brush their teeth at least three times a day, including before bed and after every meal. They should also floss at least once a day to clear food particles from hard-to-reach spots where a toothbrush can’t reach, which will prevent excessive tooth decay and maintain healthy gums. Flossing, which is already tricky for kids, is even more challenging with braces, so as a parent you’ll need to spend some time with them guiding the process and making sure they can floss well. A water flosser or orthodontic flossers designed especially for use with braces can make the whole process easier. Orthodontic appointments don’t replace routine dental cleanings. During orthodontic treatment, it’s essential you take your child to the dentist twice a year for a checkup and thorough cleaning.

I had straight teeth when I was younger and now I don’t. What happened?

Your jaw and mouth naturally change shape as you age. When your body gets older, your jawbone loses density, which can make your teeth shift. You might have thought there was nothing to be done, but now you can see you have many options to correct your smile.

Is there an age limit for getting orthodontic care?

Absolutely not! Teeth position can be adjusted at any age—even adults in their 60s and 70s have successful orthodontic treatment. We often meet patients who think they’ve missed their chance to have a great smile, and we’re here to tell you that’s not the case. You matter. Give this gift to yourself.

How is adult orthodontics different from orthodontics for children and teens?

The main difference is that adults’ jaws are fully grown. Adult treatment may take slightly longer than treatment for kids or teens with a similar problem because adults’ bones are mature and have a different density. It’s very common for orthodontists to coordinate with an adult’s dentist to reach their best outcome. Adults often choose Invisalign clear aligners to enhance their smiles since they feel less self-conscious with this nearly invisible treatment. We treat hundreds of adult patients every year with Invisalign, so we have the expertise to make your dream smile come true.

What are some common orthodontic problems for adults?

Overcrowding: Teeth overlap because the size and number of teeth exceed the capacity of the underlying bone structure. Overbite: The upper front teeth significantly overlap the bottom front teeth when the jaw is closed. Underbite: The lower jaw sits farther out than the upper jaw. Protruding teeth: Teeth stick out farther than looks natural and seamless. Open bite: The jaws are misaligned such that the upper and lower teeth don’t touch. Jaw pain: Pain caused by a bad bite, teeth grinding, stress, or mouth trauma. Abnormal tooth decay or wear and tear: All teeth wear naturally as we age, but poorly aligned teeth wear unevenly and more quickly than teeth that are straight. Gum disease: A chronic infection of the gums because of plaque buildup.

Should adults getting orthodontic treatment use a manual or electric toothbrush?

The best toothbrush is the one you happily use every day. When you have orthodontic appliances, it’s important you brush after every meal and snack so no food gets caught in your appliance. Be sure to change the toothbrush or brush head at the first sign of wear or at least every three months.

My teeth on top are pretty straight. Can I get braces or Invisalign for just my bottom teeth?

Orthodontic treatment is designed to ensure that all the teeth in your mouth work together well so they wear better over your lifetime. Teeth, like gears on a bicycle, must dovetail seamlessly to avoid excessive wear. That means an optimal orthodontic outcome most often requires treatment of both the top and bottom teeth, however we evaluate each case individually and sometimes just lower treatment can be performed.

I’m pregnant and want to get orthodontic treatment. Is that ok?

First of all, congratulations! Pregnancy brings on many changes in the body, of which some can affect the mouth. Soft tissues like gums can be more susceptible to infection. We will discuss how these risk factors can affect your orthodontic treatment and when the appropriate time to begin treatment is at your initial consultation.

December 16, 2025

Choosing between traditional braces and clear aligners is one of the most important decisions you'll make on your journey to a straighter, healthier smile. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the options, you're not alone. Many patients in Moorestown and Mount Holly, New Jersey, come to our practice asking the same question: which treatment will give me the best results while fitting seamlessly into my lifestyle?

The truth is, both traditional braces and clear aligners are highly effective orthodontic treatment options. However, they work differently, require different levels of commitment, and suit different types of cases. Understanding these distinctions will empower you to make the right choice for your unique situation. Whether you're an adult professional seeking discreet treatment or a parent exploring options for your teenager, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the decision with confidence.

Understanding Traditional Braces: The Time-Tested Solution

Traditional braces have been the gold standard in orthodontic care for over a century, and for good reason. This proven treatment method uses a system of metal or ceramic brackets bonded to your teeth, connected by wires that apply gentle, consistent pressure to gradually shift teeth into their ideal positions.

How Traditional Braces Work

The process begins with your orthodontist carefully bonding small brackets to the front surface of each tooth. A thin archwire threads through these brackets, and small elastic bands or ties hold everything securely in place. During regular adjustment appointments, your orthodontist tightens or replaces these wires to continue guiding your teeth toward their optimal alignment.

Types of Traditional Braces

Modern orthodontics offers several variations of traditional braces:

Metal Braces: The most common and economical option, featuring stainless steel brackets and wires. Today's metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than previous generations, making them less noticeable than you might expect.

Ceramic Braces: These function identically to metal braces but use tooth-colored or clear ceramic brackets that blend with your natural tooth color, offering a more aesthetic appearance while maintaining the effectiveness of traditional treatment.

Lingual Braces: Positioned on the back surface of teeth rather than the front, lingual braces provide completely hidden treatment. However, they typically cost more and may require a longer adjustment period for speaking and eating.

Benefits of Traditional Braces

Traditional braces excel at treating a comprehensive range of orthodontic issues. They're particularly effective for complex cases involving severe crowding, significant bite misalignments, rotated teeth, and substantial jaw discrepancies. Because they're fixed to your teeth throughout treatment, results don't depend on patient compliance—the braces are working around the clock.

For younger patients, this fixed nature is particularly advantageous. Parents don't need to worry about their child forgetting to wear their orthodontic appliance or misplacing it at school. The treatment progresses consistently regardless of the patient's responsibility level.

Traditional braces often present a more budget-friendly option, with many orthodontic practices offering flexible payment plans to make treatment accessible. Insurance coverage typically extends to traditional braces for both children and adults.

Treatment Duration and Process

Most patients wear traditional braces for eighteen to thirty-six months, though your specific timeline depends on the complexity of your case. You'll visit your orthodontist every four to eight weeks for adjustments, where your provider will evaluate progress and make necessary modifications to keep treatment on track.

Best Candidates for Traditional Braces

Traditional braces work exceptionally well for patients with severe orthodontic concerns, including significant overcrowding, major bite problems, or teeth that require substantial rotation. They're also ideal for younger patients who may struggle with the discipline required for removable aligners, or for anyone seeking the most economical treatment option.

Understanding Clear Aligners: Modern Orthodontic Innovation

Clear aligners represent a revolutionary approach to orthodontic treatment, combining cutting-edge technology with patient-centered design. These virtually invisible plastic trays have transformed how adults and image-conscious teens approach teeth straightening.

How Clear Aligners Work

Clear aligner treatment begins with a comprehensive digital scan of your teeth. Your orthodontist uses this scan to create a precise three-dimensional model and develop a customized treatment plan showing exactly how your teeth will move at each stage. Advanced software generates a series of clear plastic trays, each designed to make incremental adjustments to tooth position.

You'll wear each set of aligners for approximately one to two weeks before progressing to the next set in the series. The aligners apply controlled force to specific teeth, gradually repositioning them according to your treatment plan. Small tooth-colored attachments may be bonded to certain teeth to help guide movement and ensure optimal results.

The Invisalign Advantage

At MKY Orthodontics, we specialize in Invisalign treatment, holding the prestigious Diamond Plus Invisalign Provider status, a designation earned by only the top one percent of Invisalign providers nationwide. This elite status reflects our extensive experience, advanced training, and commitment to delivering exceptional results using this innovative technology.

Benefits of Clear Aligners

The aesthetic appeal of clear aligners is undeniable. The transparent plastic trays are virtually invisible during normal conversation, allowing you to straighten your teeth without the conspicuous appearance of metal brackets and wires. This discretion makes clear aligners particularly popular among adult professionals, college students, and image-conscious teenagers.

The removable nature of clear aligners offers unparalleled convenience. You can remove your aligners for eating and drinking, meaning you won't face the dietary restrictions required with traditional braces. Enjoy crunchy apples, sticky caramel, or chewy bagels without worry. This removability also simplifies oral hygiene; simply remove your aligners to brush and floss normally, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease during treatment.

Clear aligner appointments typically occur every six to ten weeks rather than monthly, making the treatment ideal for busy adults and families. Many patients also report that clear aligners feel more comfortable than traditional braces, with no metal brackets to irritate cheeks or wires to poke sensitive tissues.

Treatment Duration and Compliance

Clear aligner treatment typically ranges from twelve to eighteen months for most cases, though simple adjustments might take as few as six months. However, success depends heavily on patient compliance. Clear aligners must be worn twenty to twenty-two hours daily to achieve the predicted results. Removing them too frequently or for extended periods will delay treatment and compromise outcomes.

Best Candidates for Clear Aligners

Clear aligners work beautifully for patients with mild to moderate orthodontic concerns, including minor to moderate crowding, spacing issues, and certain bite irregularities. They're ideal for disciplined patients who will commit to wearing the aligners as prescribed and maintaining them properly. Adults and older teenagers who prioritize aesthetics and convenience often find clear aligners to be the perfect solution.

Side-by-Side Comparison: Making an Informed Choice

Aesthetics and Appearance

Traditional braces are visible, though modern options like ceramic brackets and tooth-colored ties minimize their appearance. For many patients, especially younger ones, colorful elastic bands become a fun way to express personality and style. Clear aligners offer superior discretion, remaining nearly invisible throughout treatment. Most people won't notice you're undergoing orthodontic treatment unless you mention it.

Comfort and Daily Wear

Both options involve an adjustment period. Traditional braces may cause temporary soreness after adjustments, and brackets can occasionally irritate cheeks and lips until you adapt. Clear aligners typically cause less soft tissue irritation but may create slight pressure and tightness when you switch to a new set. Some patients experience temporary speech changes with clear aligners, though most adapt within a few days.

Treatment Effectiveness for Various Cases

Traditional braces remain the most powerful option for complex orthodontic cases. They can address severe crowding, significant bite discrepancies, substantial tooth rotations, and cases requiring precise vertical control. Clear aligners have evolved tremendously and now successfully treat many cases once reserved for traditional braces. However, extremely complex cases, severe rotations, or significant vertical corrections may still require traditional brackets and wires for optimal results.

Maintenance and Oral Hygiene

Traditional braces demand meticulous oral hygiene. You'll need to brush carefully around brackets and wires, use specialized floss threaders, and potentially invest in a water flosser to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Food particles easily become trapped around brackets, requiring extra diligence. Clear aligners simplify oral hygiene significantly. Simply remove them to brush and floss normally. However, you must clean the aligners themselves daily and maintain excellent oral hygiene, as wearing aligners over unclean teeth traps bacteria against tooth surfaces.

Dietary Considerations

Traditional braces come with dietary restrictions. You'll need to avoid hard foods like nuts and hard candy, sticky items like caramel and taffy, crunchy foods like popcorn and ice, and chewy foods like bagels and licorice. These restrictions prevent bracket breakage and wire damage. Clear aligners eliminate dietary restrictions. Remove them before eating or drinking anything except water, then brush before reinserting them. This freedom to eat whatever you enjoy is a significant advantage for many patients.

Lifestyle Impact

Consider your daily routine and priorities. Traditional braces work continuously without requiring conscious effort beyond good hygiene and avoiding certain foods. Clear aligners demand discipline and responsibility. You must remember to wear them consistently, remove them for meals, clean them properly, and keep track of them when they're out. For busy professionals who travel frequently, clear aligners offer convenience. For younger patients or those who prefer

not to think about their treatment, traditional braces provide simplicity.

Appointment Frequency

Traditional braces typically require monthly or bi-monthly adjustment appointments. Each visit takes twenty to thirty minutes as your orthodontist evaluates progress and adjusts wires. Clear aligner patients often enjoy fewer office visits, typically every six to ten weeks. These checkups ensure treatment progresses as planned and provide you with your next set of aligners.

Treatment Duration Comparison

Treatment times vary significantly based on case complexity rather than treatment type. However, studies suggest that clear aligners may complete treatment slightly faster than traditional braces for comparable cases. Simple cases might resolve in six to twelve months with clear aligners, while traditional braces for similar issues typically take twelve to eighteen months. Complex cases require eighteen to thirty-six months regardless of treatment method.

Cost Considerations

Traditional braces generally cost between three thousand and seven thousand dollars, depending on case complexity and bracket type. Clear aligners typically range from four thousand to eight thousand dollars. However, many factors influence final cost, including your location, case complexity, and treatment duration. Many orthodontic practices, including MKY Orthodontics, offer flexible payment plans and accept most dental insurance plans, which often cover orthodontic treatment similarly for both options.

Making the Right Choice for Your Smile

Selecting between traditional braces and clear aligners requires careful consideration of multiple factors unique to your situation.

Evaluating Your Orthodontic Needs

The complexity of your orthodontic issues plays a crucial role. If you have severe crowding, significant bite problems, or substantial rotations, traditional braces may deliver superior results. Mild to moderate concerns often respond beautifully to clear aligner treatment.

Assessing Your Lifestyle and Priorities

Consider your daily routine, profession, and social activities. Do you attend frequent business meetings or social events where appearance matters? Clear aligners offer discretion. Are you forgetful or worried about losing removable appliances? Traditional braces eliminate that concern.

Understanding Your Commitment Level

Clear aligners demand discipline and personal responsibility. Can you commit to wearing aligners twenty-two hours daily, removing them only for meals and hygiene? Will you remember to bring your case everywhere and resist the temptation to leave it out? If these requirements feel challenging, traditional braces ensure consistent treatment without depending on daily decisions.

Age Considerations

Younger patients, particularly those under fourteen, often achieve excellent results with traditional braces. The fixed nature removes compliance concerns, allowing parents and orthodontists to focus on results rather than worrying about lost aligners or insufficient wear time. Teenagers and adults who understand treatment requirements and value aesthetics often prefer clear aligners. The decision should reflect maturity level and personal responsibility rather than age alone.

Budget and Financial Planning

While cost shouldn't be the sole deciding factor, financial considerations matter. Traditional braces typically cost less upfront, though many practices offer financing that makes both options accessible. Check your dental insurance coverage, as policies vary in their approach to different treatment types. Discuss all financial options with your orthodontist's office before making your decision.

Questions to Ask Your Orthodontist

Schedule a comprehensive consultation to discuss your specific needs. Ask about your orthodontist's experience with both treatment types, their recommendation for your particular case, realistic treatment timelines, total costs including any additional fees, and what happens if you're not happy with the results. A qualified orthodontist will provide honest guidance about which option will serve you best.

Expert Perspective from MKY Orthodontics

At Morrone, Kaye, and Yucha Orthodontics, Dr. Richard Kaye and Dr. Benjamin Yucha bring decades of combined expertise to every patient consultation. As Top 1% Diamond Plus Invisalign Providers, they've successfully treated thousands of patients with clear aligners, but they're equally skilled in traditional orthodontics and understand that no single solution works for everyone.

Dr. Yucha emphasizes the importance of the doctor-patient relationship in treatment success. "Whether we recommend traditional braces or clear aligners, the outcome depends on open communication and mutual commitment. We take time to ensure every patient understands their treatment plan, knows what to expect at each stage, and feels supported throughout their orthodontic journey."

The doctors' commitment to staying at the forefront of orthodontic innovation ensures patients receive treatment using the most advanced techniques and technology available. Their Diamond Plus Invisalign Provider status reflects not just volume but exceptional outcomes and patient satisfaction.

If you're considering orthodontic treatment in the Moorestown or Mount Holly area, schedule a complimentary consultation at MKY Orthodontics. Our team will evaluate your needs, answer your questions, and help you discover which treatment option will give you the stunning, healthy smile you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which is faster: traditional braces or clear aligners?

Treatment duration depends more on case complexity than treatment type. For comparable mild to moderate cases, clear aligners often complete treatment in twelve to eighteen months, while traditional braces might take eighteen to twenty-four months. However, severe cases may require similar timeframes regardless of the method chosen. Your orthodontist can provide a more accurate timeline after evaluating your specific needs.

Q: Do clear aligners hurt as much as braces?

Both options may cause temporary discomfort, though the sensation differs. Traditional braces can create soreness after adjustments and may irritate soft tissues until you adapt. Clear aligners typically cause pressure and tightness when switching to new trays, but many patients report less overall discomfort. The discomfort with either option is mild and temporary, subsiding within a few days.

Q: Can adults get traditional braces, or are clear aligners better for grown-ups?

Adults can absolutely choose traditional braces, and many do, especially for complex cases. However, many adult patients prefer clear aligners for professional and social reasons. The best choice depends on your orthodontic needs, lifestyle preferences, and personal priorities rather than age. Modern ceramic braces also offer adults a more discreet traditional option.

Q: How much do clear aligners cost compared to traditional braces?

Clear aligners typically cost slightly more than traditional metal braces, with prices ranging from four thousand to eight thousand dollars versus three thousand to seven thousand for braces. However, many factors influence final cost, including case complexity, treatment duration, and geographic location. Most orthodontic practices offer payment plans, and dental insurance often covers both options similarly.

Q: What happens if I don't wear my clear aligners enough?

Insufficient wear time will delay treatment and may prevent teeth from moving as predicted. Clear aligners must be worn twenty to twenty-two hours daily for optimal results. Consistent removal or forgetting to wear them can extend treatment significantly or compromise final outcomes. If you're concerned about compliance, discuss this honestly with your orthodontist; traditional braces might be a better fit.

Q: Are clear aligners as effective as traditional braces for all cases?

Clear aligners have evolved tremendously and now successfully treat many cases that once required traditional braces. However, very complex cases involving severe rotations, significant vertical movements, or extreme crowding may still respond better to traditional braces. A comprehensive evaluation by an experienced orthodontist will determine whether clear aligners can achieve your desired results.

Q: How often do I need orthodontist appointments with each option?

Traditional braces typically require appointments every four to eight weeks for adjustments and monitoring. Clear aligner patients generally visit every six to ten weeks to check progress and receive new aligner sets. The reduced appointment frequency with clear aligners can be advantageous for patients with demanding schedules.

Q: Can I switch from braces to clear aligners during treatment?

In some cases, orthodontists may recommend a combination treatment, using braces initially to address complex movements, then transitioning to clear aligners for final refinements. Whether switching makes sense depends on your specific situation and treatment progress. Discuss any concerns with your orthodontist to explore your options.

Ready to start your smile transformation journey? Contact MKY Orthodontics in Moorestown or Mount Holly, New Jersey, today to schedule your complimentary consultation. Our experienced team will help you choose the perfect treatment option for your unique needs and lifestyle.

Traditional Braces vs. Clear Aligners: Which Is Right for Your Smile?