If you’ve been considering Invisalign® to straighten your smile, you might have noticed that both general dentists and orthodontists offer it. So, does it matter where you go for Invisalign treatment? Is it the same everywhere?
The short answer: No, Invisalign is not the same from a dentist versus orthodontist. And understanding why can make a big difference in your results.
Invisalign Is a Tool—Not a Treatment Plan
Just like braces or expanders, Invisalign is simply a tool—like a set of paintbrushes. A talented artist can create a masterpiece with those brushes. But someone without the experience or knowledge might not know which brush to use when, or how to bring a vision to life. The same idea applies to Invisalign.
Invisalign® is simply a clear aligner product that gets made based on the doctor’s prescription. The expert behind the treatment plan—the one who engineers how your teeth move, when they move, and whether attachments, polishing, or elastics are needed—is the one who makes the difference. The expert when it comes to tooth movement and aligning your smile and bite is an Orthodontist.
What’s the Difference Between a Dentist and an Orthodontist?
While both general dentists and orthodontists can technically provide Invisalign treatment, their training and focus differ significantly. Both general dentists and orthodontists graduate from dental school as dentists. But orthodontists go on to complete an additional 2 to 3 years of specialized residency training, focused solely on how teeth and jaws move. This means orthodontists are trained to:
- Diagnose and treat bite issues (like overbite, underbite, crossbite, crowding)
- Align teeth in a safe, healthy manner
- Understand jaw growth and facial symmetry
- Use a wide range of orthodontic tools (like Invisalign) with precision
In short, while a general dentist is skilled in overall oral health, an orthodontist focuses entirely on moving teeth and correcting alignment. While a dentist might be able to improve mild misalignment problems with clear aligners, an Orthodontist is trained to detect other issues and prevent side effects for cases ranging from mild to complex.
Why Does It Matter with Invisalign?
Although Invisalign® is a modern clear aligner option, it relies on the Invisalign doctor to input the treatment plan—to decide where teeth should go, how much pressure to apply, and how to pace the movement safely. Invisalign aligners themselves do not make tooth movement decisions – your provider does.
Orthodontists are trained to engineer and customize every movement for the healthiest, most efficient outcome. This can mean shorter treatment time, better bite correction, and fewer complications. It’s not about who offers Invisalign. It’s about who designs your treatment.
Is Invisalign Cheaper at a Dentist vs. Orthodontist?
No, not always. Many general dentists charge as much as a specialist when it comes to clear aligners like Invisalign. Many people don’t realize that orthodontists offer touch-up or express options, which can be very cost effective.
Final Thoughts: Trust Your Smile to a Specialist
Choosing Invisalign doesn’t mean you’re choosing the same experience everywhere. Just like braces, Invisalign aligners are simply one of several orthodontic tools.
If you’re looking for the best possible outcome, choose a provider who specializes in moving teeth and understands the big picture—your bite, your facial balance, and your long-term dental and oral health. That’s what orthodontists, like Dr. Danielle N. Godley, do every day.
