Outdated myths about Invisalign® stand between thousands of patients and their ideal treatment. While orthodontic technology races forward, misconceptions remain frozen in time, particularly regarding what Invisalign® can treat, how long it takes, and what it costs. These persistent beliefs aren’t just annoying inaccuracies; they’re actively steering patients toward more invasive, visible, and sometimes less appropriate treatment options. Correcting these misunderstandings matters for anyone considering orthodontic care in 2025.

At Clemente Orthodontics, we believe in providing accurate, up-to-date information about all treatment options. Our multigenerational family practice has proudly served the Bergen and Rockland County communities since the 1970s, with Dr. Michael and his daughters, Dr. Nicole and Dr. Marissa, working together as one seamless team. As Diamond Plus Invisalign® Providers in the top 1% nationally and the number one Invisalign® provider in New York and New Jersey, we’re uniquely qualified to separate fact from fiction regarding this innovative treatment.

Myth #1: Invisalign® Can Only Fix Minor Issues

Perhaps the most persistent misconception about Invisalign® is that it only works for simple cases like slight crowding or minor spacing issues.

The reality is that Invisalign® technology has evolved dramatically since its introduction. Today’s Invisalign® system can effectively address:

Complex crowding and spacing problems
Significant overbites and underbites
Crossbites and open bites
Deep bites and edge-to-edge bites
Many extraction cases

The key factor isn’t the severity of the case but rather the expertise of the provider. As the number one Invisalign® provider in New York and New Jersey, our doctors have successfully treated thousands of complex cases that might have been deemed “braces only” by less experienced providers.

Myth #2: Invisalign® Takes Longer Than Traditional Braces

Many patients assume that the convenience and aesthetics of Invisalign® must come with a trade-off in treatment duration.

In reality, Invisalign® treatment often requires comparable or even less time than traditional braces for many cases. Several factors contribute to potential time savings:

The digital planning process allows for extremely precise tooth movement sequencing. Your entire treatment is mapped out from the beginning, optimizing efficiency.

Appointments typically take less time and occur less frequently than with traditional braces, as there are no brackets to adjust or wires to replace.

For appropriate cases, many patients qualify for weekly aligner changes rather than the traditional two-week protocol, potentially reducing treatment time by half.

While treatment duration always depends on your specific orthodontic needs, the notion that Invisalign® inherently takes longer than braces simply isn’t supported by current clinical evidence.

Myth #3: Invisalign® Is Just for Teenagers

Another common misconception is that Invisalign® is primarily marketed toward and appropriate for teenagers concerned about their appearance.

The truth is that Invisalign® offers specific treatment options for different age groups, with many adult patients particularly appreciating the aesthetic advantages. With our extensive experience, we’ve successfully treated:

Young children with early interceptive treatment
Teenagers with their unique developmental needs
Working professionals concerned about their appearance in business settings
Seniors addressing long-standing orthodontic issues

In fact, approximately half of our Invisalign® patients are adults, many of whom delayed orthodontic treatment earlier in life due to concerns about wearing traditional braces in professional settings.

Myth #4: Invisalign® Is Much More Expensive Than Braces

Cost concerns often prevent patients from exploring Invisalign® as a treatment option.

The reality is that at Clemente Orthodontics, Invisalign® treatment typically costs about the same as traditional braces for comparable cases. Several factors influence cost:

Treatment complexity and duration
Insurance coverage (many plans now cover Invisalign® at the same rate as traditional braces)
Provider experience (highly experienced providers like ours may deliver more efficient treatment)

We believe in transparent pricing and offer the same investment for comparable cases regardless of whether you choose Invisalign® or traditional braces. The decision should be based on what works best for your specific situation, not cost differences.

Myth #5: Invisalign® Results Don’t Last

Some patients worry that results achieved with Invisalign® won’t be as permanent as those achieved with traditional braces.

In truth, the stability of orthodontic results depends primarily on proper retention rather than the treatment method. All orthodontic treatment—whether with Invisalign® or traditional braces—requires retention to maintain results.

The precision of Invisalign® treatment planning may actually contribute to more predictable results in some cases. The digital planning process allows us to visualize the final outcome before treatment even begins, potentially leading to more stable tooth positions.

Our retention protocols remain the same for all patients regardless of treatment method, ensuring long-lasting results for all our patients.

Choosing the Right Treatment Option

When considering orthodontic treatment, having accurate information helps you make the best decision for your specific needs. As Diamond Plus Invisalign® Providers, we bring exceptional expertise to every case, ensuring optimal results regardless of which treatment option you choose.

The key factors in determining whether Invisalign® is right for you include:

Your specific orthodontic needs
Lifestyle considerations
Personal preferences regarding aesthetics and convenience
Commitment to wearing aligners as directed

With our decades of experience and position as the number one Invisalign® provider in New York and New Jersey, we can help you navigate these considerations to find your ideal treatment path.

Discover Your True Invisalign® Potential

Don’t let persistent myths prevent you from exploring what might be your ideal orthodontic solution. Schedule a consultation with Clemente Orthodontics to receive accurate, personalized information about how today’s Invisalign® technology might address your specific needs. Our extensive experience treating complex cases gives us insight that goes beyond generic information found online or from providers with limited Invisalign® experience.

As the number one Invisalign® provider in New York and New Jersey, our family practice brings unmatched expertise to every case, ensuring exceptional results regardless of complexity. We believe in creating beautiful smiles through the most comfortable, convenient, and effective methods available for each unique situation. Call us at (201) 447-2888 or complete our contact form to schedule your comprehensive Invisalign® consultation.