Invisalign and Braces in Victoria, BC

Understanding Your Orthodontic Options

Invisalign and traditional braces gradually move teeth into healthier, more balanced positions. The most suitable option depends on your age, oral health, bite, alignment concerns, lifestyle, and ability to follow treatment instructions.


Clear aligners may be appropriate for many mild to moderate concerns, while traditional braces can provide greater control for complex tooth movement, significant crowding, and severe bite problems. A comprehensive assessment helps us recommend the right approach for your smile.

Types of Orthodontic Treatment

We offer Invisalign clear aligners and traditional braces to correct crooked teeth, crowding, spacing, and bite concerns.

Invisalign Clear Aligners

Invisalign uses removable clear aligners to straighten your teeth. They are comfortable, discreet, and let you eat, brush, and floss without brackets and wires.

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces use metal or ceramic brackets and wires to align teeth. They effectively treat mild to complex orthodontic concerns, including crowding, spacing, and bite problems.

What to Expect With Invisalign Treatment

Invisalign treatment begins with a comprehensive assessment of your teeth, bite, gums, and jaw alignment. If clear aligners are appropriate for your needs, a personalized treatment plan is created to guide your teeth through a series of gradual movements.


You will wear each set of aligners as directed, typically removing them only to eat, drink anything other than water, brush, and floss. Regular appointments allow us to monitor your progress and make adjustments when needed. Treatment times vary depending on the complexity of your case and how consistently you wear your aligners.


After active treatment, you will receive a retainer to help maintain your new tooth positions and protect your results.

Managing Overcrowding

Overcrowding occurs when there is insufficient space for teeth to erupt or align. It is common in children as larger adult teeth replace smaller baby teeth while the jaw is still developing. Treatment depends on the severity of crowding, the patient’s age, jaw development, and orthodontic needs.


Some cases may be managed with braces or clear aligners, while others may require carefully planned tooth removal to create adequate space. We evaluate each patient and monitor growing children before recommending significant treatment, with the goal of preserving healthy teeth while supporting proper alignment and long-term oral function.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is better, Invisalign or braces?

    Neither option is best for every patient. Invisalign  may work well for mild to moderate concerns, while braces can provide greater control for complex movement. An orthodontic assessment helps determine which treatment suits your needs.

  • How long do braces take?

    Traditional braces commonly require 12 to 24 months, although the timeline depends on the severity of crowding, spacing, and bite concerns. Regular adjustments and following care instructions can help keep treatment progressing properly.

  • How many hours should Invisalign be worn?

    Invisalign aligners generally need to be worn for 20 to 22 hours each day. They should only be removed for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing unless your dentist provides different instructions.

  • Can Invisalign treat an overbite or underbite?

    Invisalign may correct certain mild to moderate bite concerns, but complex overbites, underbites, or significant jaw discrepancies may respond better to braces or additional treatment. An examination is required to assess your case.

  • Will I need a retainer after treatment?

    Yes. A retainer helps prevent your teeth from gradually shifting after braces or Invisalign treatment. Consistent wear is especially important during the first several months while the tissues surrounding your teeth stabilize.

  • Is tooth extraction always needed for overcrowding?

    No. Extraction is only recommended when there is insufficient space and other treatment options cannot create proper alignment. We consider age, jaw development, tooth position, and overall oral health before making a recommendation.