Mar 27, 2025

Is Invisalign® better than braces? What our orthodontist wants you to know

When it comes to straightening your teeth, today’s options are more advanced - and more personalised - than ever before. But with so many choices available, from clear aligners like Invisalign® and Angel Aligners to traditional and modern braces, how do you know which one is right for you?

At Coombe Orthodontics, we offer a range of treatments tailored to your goals, lifestyle and budget. Below, our team shares everything you need to know to help you compare clear aligners and braces - unbiased, expert insight from a practice that offers both.

Clear aligners vs braces: what’s the difference?

Clear aligners and braces both aim to move your teeth into better alignment, but they do it in very different ways.

• Clear aligners (like Invisalign® and Angel Aligners) use a series of custom-made, removable plastic trays that apply gentle pressure to guide your teeth over time.
• Braces involve brackets (metal or ceramic) that are fixed to your teeth and connected by a wire. These are adjusted regularly by your orthodontist to achieve the desired result.

Both options are effective - but your choice will depend on your treatment needs, your lifestyle, and how hands-on you want to be during the process.

When are clear aligners a good choice?

Clear aligners are incredibly popular among adults and teens who want a discreet treatment that fits seamlessly into everyday life. They're:

• Virtually invisible: Great for professionals or anyone who prefers a low-key look.
• Removable: You can take them out to eat, brush and floss.
• Custom-fit: Designed using 3D scans for a comfortable, precise treatment experience.

At Coombe Orthodontics, we offer Invisalign® and Angel Aligners, both of which are excellent choices for mild to moderate cases. For more complex orthodontic issues, clear aligners can still work - but they may take longer or require attachments to guide movement more precisely.

Good for:

• Adults and older teens
• Mild to moderate crowding, spacing or bite issues
• Patients who are committed to wearing them 22+ hours a day

When are braces the better option?

Braces remain the gold standard for treating complex orthodontic concerns. At Coombe Orthodontics, we offer several types of braces to suit different aesthetic and comfort needs:

• Insignia braces: A fully customised digital system that can reduce treatment times and improve accuracy.
• Ceramic braces: Tooth-coloured brackets for a more subtle appearance.
• Self-ligating braces: A modern, low-friction option that can lead to quicker adjustments and fewer appointments.

Braces don’t rely on patient compliance and can treat a wider range of bite and alignment issues more predictably than aligners.

Good for:

• Children and teens
• More complex or severe cases
• Patients who may forget to wear aligners consistently
• Anyone who wants a set-and-forget treatment option

Want faster results? Ask us about accelerated orthodontics

Did you know that some patients may be eligible for faster treatment options at Coombe Orthodontics? Our team uses digital planning tools and technologies like Dental Monitoring to help you achieve results in less time - and with fewer in-office appointments.

Whether you're considering Invisalign® Express, Insignia braces, or remote progress tracking, we’ll help you explore all options during your consultation.

So… which one is better?

The truth? There’s no single “best” treatment - it all depends on your individual case and what matters most to you.

At Coombe Orthodontics, we’re here to help you make a confident, informed choice. As a practice that offers braces, Invisalign® and Angel Aligners, we’ll always recommend what’s genuinely right for your smile - not a one-size-fits-all solution.<

Ready to find out what’s right for you?

Book your free clear aligner consultation or speak to our friendly team to explore your options. With locations in Wahroonga and Toukley and the flexibility of remote monitoring, your ideal smile might be easier to reach than you think.

Book your free consultation