You’ve probably thought about it once or twice—maybe while waiting in line at Five Daughters Bakery in downtown Franklin or scrolling Instagram during a lunch break in Lewisburg. Braces or Invisalign? Both can get your teeth where they need to go, but they take very different routes getting there. Dr. Evan Cox and the team at Evan Cox Orthodontics know the decision isn’t just about looks—it’s about lifestyle. So let’s take a look at how these options stack up.
Braces vs. Invisalign: What’s the Real Difference?
Let’s start with the basics. Both braces and Invisalign are designed to move teeth into better positions—but how they do it (and what it’s like living with them) is where things start to split.
Braces use metal brackets that are bonded to your teeth and connected by wires. Dr. Evan Cox adjusts them every few weeks to keep things moving. Thanks to some major improvements in design, today’s metal braces are smaller, smoother, and more comfortable than the ones you might remember from middle school.
Invisalign, on the other hand, uses a series of clear plastic trays that fit over your teeth. You’ll switch them out every week or two, and you can take them out when you eat, brush, or snap a selfie at the Franklin Theatre without any metal showing.
Both options work—and both are offered at Evan Cox Orthodontics—but they fit into daily life in very different ways. Let’s talk about what that looks like next.
Which One Fits Better For Everyday Life?
Choosing between braces and Invisalign often comes down to how each option fits into your routine. From coffee runs at Frothy Monkey to evening concerts at The Mulehouse, your orthodontic treatment should work with your schedule, not against it. Dr. Evan Cox and the team at Evan Cox Orthodontics help patients weigh the lifestyle factors that can make one option stand out over the other.
Braces: Set It and Forget It
- Always on: Braces work 24/7, so you don’t have to think about putting them in or taking them out.
- No tracking needed: You won’t misplace them—because they’re always with you.
- Food restrictions: Some favorites (like sticky treats from the Franklin Farmers Market) are off-limits.
- Extra brushing time: Cleaning around brackets takes a bit more effort, but it’s doable with the right tools.
Invisalign: More Freedom, More Responsibility
- Removable trays: Easy to take out for meals, brushing, or special occasions.
- Eat what you love: From pulled pork at Puckett’s to popcorn at the Franklin Theatre—no problem.
- Stick to the schedule: You’ll need to wear them 20–22 hours a day to stay on track.
- Simple oral hygiene: No brackets means brushing and flossing is business as usual.
Dr. Evan Cox will help you weigh these everyday pros and cons based on your habits, goals, and lifestyle. But once you’ve chosen a treatment, how long are you in it for? Let’s look at the timeline next.
How Long Will It Take?
Let’s talk timelines. One of the first questions Dr. Evan Cox hears during consultations at Evan Cox Orthodontics is, “How long will this take?” The answer depends on the complexity of your case, but here’s what most patients can expect in general.
Braces
- Average time: 18 to 36 months (determined on a case-by-case basis)
- Best for: More complex cases, like bite issues or crowding
- Consistent results: Since they’re always working, braces often make faster progress in trickier situations
Invisalign
- Average time: 12 to 24 months
- Best for: Mild to moderate spacing or alignment needs
- Consistency is key: The more closely you stick to wearing your aligners as directed, the better (and faster) your results
Patients in Franklin and Lewisburg who stick to their checkups and follow Dr. Evan Cox’s treatment plan often finish right on schedule—sometimes even ahead. Next, let’s touch on another factor that plays a big role: visibility and appearance.
What Will It Look Like?
For many adults and teens in Franklin and Lewisburg, one of the biggest questions is: how visible is this going to be? Whether you’re giving a presentation at work, taking family photos at Harlinsdale Farm, or just running into someone you know at Kroger, it’s natural to think about how orthodontic treatment will affect your appearance.
Braces
- Metal Braces: The most noticeable option, but also the most durable and effective for complex cases.
- Ceramic Braces: A more discreet alternative with tooth-colored brackets that blend in better.
Some patients even turn their braces into a style statement with colored bands—especially popular with teens or anyone who likes a little personality in their smile.
Invisalign
- Virtually invisible: Clear trays that fit snugly over your teeth and are barely noticeable.
- No metal, no wires: Just clean, smooth aligners that blend in with your smile.
Still unsure which option is right for you? A consultation with Dr. Evan Cox at Evan Cox Orthodontics is the best way to get clarity without any pressure—here’s what that first visit looks like.
What to Expect at Your Consultation with Evan Cox Orthodontics
Your first visit to Evan Cox Orthodontics is laid-back, informative, and all about you. From the moment you walk in, our team makes sure you feel at home—no long waits, no stress. After a quick tour of the office, we’ll take digital X-rays and 3D scans (no goopy impressions here) to get a clear view of your teeth and bite.
Dr. Evan Cox will review your scans, perform a thorough exam, and walk you through your treatment options, whether you’re leaning toward braces or Invisalign. You’ll get honest answers to all your questions—no pressure, just helpful insight. If you’re ready to roll, we’ll schedule your next visit before you leave. If you need time to think, that’s perfectly fine, too!
It’s orthodontic care made simple—and it all starts with one easy, comfortable visit.
Pick Your Path, We’ll Handle the Rest!
Braces or Invisalign? There’s no wrong choice, just the one that fits your life best. No matter where your days take you, Evan Cox Orthodontics has the right option for your goals and schedule. Dr. Evan Cox and his team are here to help you get started with zero pressure and plenty of support. Book your free consultation in Franklin or Lewisburg and let’s make this the year you stop wondering and start smiling!
