
Trying to decide between braces and Invisalign? You’re not alone—and Dr. Jessica Itani from Northern Virginia Orthodontics is here to break it all down for you. Both options are designed to give you a confident, healthy smile, but there are some key differences when it comes to how they look, feel, and fit into your everyday life (hello, snack restrictions!). Dr. Itani walks you through what makes each option unique and how NVO helps you choose the one that fits your smile best with a free consultation to get you started.
Key Takeaways

Aesthetic Appeal
Braces are visible and often come with colored ties, while Invisalign aligners are clear and virtually unnoticeable.

Comfort Levels
Invisalign aligners are smooth and custom-made, while braces can feel bulkier and may cause initial irritation.

Food Restrictions
Braces limit what you can eat (avoiding sticky, hard, or crunchy foods), while Invisalign allows for full food freedom since aligners are removed during meals.

Treatment Goals
Both braces and Invisalign are designed to perfect your smile and bite—just in different ways.

Customized Consultations
At NVO, patients receive a complimentary consultation with a doctor and treatment coordinator to find the right path forward.
“The choice between traditional braces or Invisalign aligners is completely individual—and we’re here to help you choose what’s best for your smile.”
Choosing the Best Path for Your Smile
When it comes to orthodontic treatment, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution—because every smile is unique! That’s why Northern Virginia Orthodontics offers both traditional braces and Invisalign, giving you the freedom to choose what works best for your lifestyle, goals, and comfort level. Whether you’re looking for the tried-and-true reliability of braces or the discreet, flexible design of Invisalign, our team is here to guide you through the decision with expert advice and personalized care. At NVO, it’s all about finding the right fit—for your teeth and your life.
Aesthetics & Comfort
Dr. Itani shares that many patients are drawn to Invisalign for its nearly invisible look and smooth, custom-fit design. It’s a great option for those who want to straighten their teeth without it being obvious. Traditional braces, while incredibly effective, are more noticeable and can take a little time for your mouth to adjust to—especially with metal brackets and wires that may cause some initial discomfort.
Lifestyle Considerations
Your daily routine plays a big role in which treatment might be best. Braces require a few food sacrifices—think sticky candies, popcorn, and crunchy snacks—which can break or get stuck in the brackets. Invisalign, on the other hand, offers total food freedom. Since the aligners are removable, you can enjoy all your favorite meals and snacks without worry. Just pop them out before eating and brush before putting them back in!
Personalized Treatment at NVO
The best part? You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. At Northern Virginia Orthodontics, your journey starts with a complimentary consultation where you’ll meet with a doctor and treatment coordinator. Together, you’ll talk through your smile goals, lifestyle, and preferences to choose the treatment that fits you best—because at NVO, it’s all about making orthodontics work for you.
We’re Here For You
Whether you’re leaning toward Invisalign or considering traditional braces, your decision should be based on what fits your lifestyle and smile goals. At Northern Virginia Orthodontics, we’re here to make that decision easier with expert guidance and personalized care.
Ready to take the next step? Book your free consultation today and let’s talk about what makes the most sense for your smile.
Get To Know Dr. Itani!
If you would like to learn more about Dr. Itani, check out her website and Instagram profile.
