The Short Answer: Probably Yes
Crooked teeth, gaps, crowding, and bite issues are among the most common concerns patients bring to us. The good news is that modern orthodontic technology has made straightening teeth more accessible, comfortable, and discreet than ever before.
Whether you're a teenager dealing with crowding or an adult who's always wished their smile looked a little different, there's very likely an option that fits your situation — and your schedule.
Did you know? Adults make up more than a third of orthodontic patients today. It's never too late to straighten your smile.
Your Main Options
Invisalign & Clear Aligner Therapy
Clear aligners are custom-made, virtually invisible trays that gradually shift your teeth into position. You wear each set for about 1–2 weeks, then move to the next. At Monroe Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer Invisalign and clear aligner therapy for a wide range of cases — from mild crowding to more complex bite corrections.
- Virtually invisible — most people won't notice you're wearing them
- Removable for eating, drinking, and brushing
- Fewer office visits than traditional braces
- Comfortable — no wires or brackets to irritate your mouth
- Treatment time typically 6–18 months depending on complexity
Traditional Braces
Metal or ceramic braces use brackets and wires to move teeth precisely over time. While less popular among adults due to their visibility, they remain an effective option — especially for complex cases that require more precise control over tooth movement.
Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces: Side-by-Side
| Feature | Invisalign | Traditional Braces |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Nearly invisible | Visible metal/ceramic |
| Removable | Yes | No |
| Diet restrictions | None | Avoid hard/sticky foods |
| Cleaning teeth | Normal brushing & flossing | Requires special tools |
| Office visits | Every 6–8 weeks | Every 4–6 weeks |
| Best for | Mild to moderate cases; adults | Complex cases; all ages |
| Average duration | 6–18 months | 12–24 months |
Am I a Good Candidate?
Most adults and teenagers are candidates for clear aligner therapy. The best way to find out is a consultation with Dr. Pete or Dr. Alex. During your visit, we'll take digital scans of your teeth, evaluate your bite, and give you an honest assessment of what's possible — and what to expect.
Cases that may be better suited to traditional braces include:
- Severe crowding or spacing issues
- Significant bite problems (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
- Rotations of certain teeth
- Cases requiring tooth extraction as part of treatment
For most patients, though, Invisalign delivers excellent results with far less inconvenience than traditional braces.
What About Retainers?
After any orthodontic treatment, retainers are essential to keep your teeth in their new positions. We offer custom-fitted retainers and will walk you through a maintenance plan that protects your investment long term. Learn more on our retainers page.
Ready to find out? Book a complimentary smile consultation with Dr. Pete or Dr. Alex. We'll show you a digital preview of your results before you commit to anything. Call (770) 266-7188.