Invisalign Vs. Lightforce Braces: Which Is Right For You?

Looking for the best place in Minneapolis to get Invisalign, clear aligners, or braces?

Congratulations, your search is officially over. You’ve stumbled upon orthodontic excellence that’s been decades in the making!. Let’s break down why our Invisalign and LightForce braces options are the best orthodontic options around and why traditional orthodontics belongs in a museum. 

In this blog we will:

 ✔ Explain what Invisalign and LightForce braces actually are

 ✔ Break down the similarities and differences

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign, or clear aligners, are here to help you upgrade your smile discreetly. They are virtually invisible, comfortable, removable trays designed with advanced technology. Using our iTero 3D scanner, we create a 3D model of your teeth to design your entire treatment journey before you even start. 

Each set of aligners make slight adjustments over time, and you’ll switch to a new one every 1-2 weeks. Yes, it’s that simple. 

What are LightForce Braces?

LightForce braces are the world’s first and only fully custom 3-D printed bracket system. While traditional braces use a one-size-fits-most approach, LightForce brackets are designed to fit you, down to every curve and contour of each individual tooth. Why does that matter? With LightForce braces, compared to traditional braces,  you get done with treatment faster, with fewer and shorter office visits.

Here’s how it works: We start by digitally scanning your teeth using our state-of-the-art iTero 3D scanner (no goopy molds here!). Then, Dr. Sudit maps out every tiny movement needed to guide your teeth into their perfect position with precision, speed, and comfort as top priorities.

Similarities and Differences

Choosing between Invisalign and LightForce braces doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Both are excellent options, and depending on what matters most to you, we’ll help you find the treatment that fits your lifestyle, priorities, and smile goals perfectly.

 

Aesthetics

Invisalign: So clear that people will think you’ve been blessed with mysteriously self-improving teeth. Your secret transformation weapon that nobody needs to know about.

LightForce Braces: Not the metal mouth nightmare you remember from high school. These 3D printed brackets are made from crystal clear ceramic that blends beautifully with your teeth. Whether you are an adult looking for something low-key or a parent exploring options for your kid, LightForce braces are fully custom.  Keep things polished and discreet with clear rubber bands, or have some fun with over 30 unique colors, including glow-in-the-dark, iridescent, and even sparkles.

 

 

Lifestyle

Invisalign: Invisalign is made to move with your lifestyle. Eat what you want, drink what you love, just pop out your aligners first. For fastest results, we recommend you wear them about 20+ hours a day, but if that’s not realistic for your routine, we can chat about night-time only options that still get you the smile you’re after.

LightForce Braces: Want fast results without having to think about it? Braces might be the move for you! You’ll need to avoid foods that are sticky, chewy, or extra crunchy. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a full list of what to avoid and a copy of Dr. Sudit’s very own cookbook, filled with healthy, delicious, and totally brace-friendly recipes. 

 

Timeline 

The length of your treatment is tailored to your unique needs and typically lasts between 8 and 24 months. The exact timeline depends on the complexity of your case and the type of treatment selected.

Invisalign: Your transformation starts the moment you put in your first set of aligners. Most patients begin noticing results within just a few weeks, and many complete treatment with as few as three in-office visits!

We’ll track your progress weekly with DentalMonitoring, a virtual check-in tool included in your treatment. Combined with virtual appointments, it means fewer trips to the office and more time doing what you love.

LightForce Braces:  On average, treatment can be up to 6 months quicker than traditional braces, with office visits spaced every 12–16 weeks (instead of every 4) and shorter appointments!

We know your schedule is packed, which is why we include DentalMonitoring with your treatment. This virtual check-in tool, along with virtual appointments, helps ensure that every in-office visit is intentional and efficient.

 

Maintenance

Invisalign: Caring for your aligners is simple and quickly becomes part of your daily routine. Clean them each time you brush your teeth to keep them fresh and clear.

Always store your aligners in their case when eating or drinking anything other than water, and remember to brush or rinse your mouth before putting them back in. It’s an easy habit that keeps your treatment on track and your smile looking its best.

LightForce Braces: Braces don’t require much day-to-day thought, but a little care goes a long way. Brush and floss regularly, making sure to clean around the brackets and wires to keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment.

 

Post treatment care

Both: Wearing a retainer is crucial, even after treatment. Your teeth can easily shift over time. After all the hard work you’ve put in, we’re here to help you protect your investment.

That’s why we offer RETAIN™, our free-to-sign-up retainer subscription service. Whether you need a new retainer now or six months from now, RETAIN makes it easy by delivering straight to you whenever, wherever.

After reading all that info, why choose Mint? We’ll tell you why.

Diamond+ Invisalign Provider Status – We’re in the top 1% of Invisalign providers worldwide. Not to brag, but that’s exactly the kind of practice you want handling your smile transformation

Cutting Edge Technology Only – We invest in technology that most practices consider “optional.” We consider it mandatory for patients who deserve nothing less than perfection.

Personalized Treatment – Your smile isn’t generic so your treatment isn’t either. We customize every aspect of your care because cookie cutter approaches are for cookies, not orthodontics.

Exceptional Results – We love our before and after gallery! We’ve changed thousands of smiles and yours could be next.. Just check out all our reviews. 

Ready to transform that smile with the only orthodontic practice in Minneapolis that treats teeth like an art form? Of course you are. 

Schedule your complimentary consultation today and discover why patients drive past dozens of other orthodontists in the Twin Cities just to see us. 

 

Orthodontics is for everyone.

Get started with a free in-person or virtual consultation today.