Invisalign vs Braces in Summerlin, Las Vegas: Which Orthodontic Treatment Is Right for You?

A Complete Guide from Dr. Marianne Cohan, DDS, AAFE, AACD at Summerlin Dental Solutions — 19-Time Best of Las Vegas Winner

 

Choosing between Invisalign and traditional braces is one of the most common decisions families in Summerlin, Las Vegas face when starting orthodontic treatment. Whether you live in The Summit, Queensridge, Henderson, Spring Valley, or anywhere in the Las Vegas Valley, this guide will help you understand exactly how these two treatments compare so you can make a confident, informed decision with the help of your dental team at Summerlin Dental Solutions.

Both Invisalign clear aligners and traditional metal or ceramic braces can deliver beautiful, healthy smiles. However, they differ significantly in appearance, comfort, treatment time, lifestyle impact, and cost. Below, we break down everything you need to know, followed by 20 frequently asked questions to address the specific concerns patients in our Summerlin office raise most often.

Your Orthodontic Provider: Dr. Marianne Cohan, DDS, AAFE, AACD

When you choose orthodontic treatment at Summerlin Dental Solutions, your care is managed personally by Dr. Marianne Cohan, a 19-time Best of Las Vegas award winner with over 31 years of clinical experience. Dr. Cohan holds AACD Accreditation, a distinction earned by fewer than one percent of dentists in the United States, and is an accredited member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. She is also a member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, the Academy of Laser Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the ADA.

Dr. Cohan uses advanced digital technology including TRIOS 3D digital scanning, AI-assisted diagnostics, 3D CBCT imaging, and computerized smile design software to plan every orthodontic case with precision. Because she is the sole practitioner at Summerlin Dental Solutions, you see the same doctor at every appointment, ensuring continuity of care and a personal relationship that multi-associate practices cannot replicate.

How Invisalign and Traditional Braces Work

Invisalign uses a series of custom-fabricated clear plastic aligners that fit snugly over your teeth. Each set of aligners is worn for one to two weeks before switching to the next set in the series, gradually moving teeth into their target positions. The aligners are removable, which means you take them out to eat, drink anything other than water, brush, and floss. Treatment planning is done digitally using the TRIOS scanner at our Summerlin office, and many patients can preview their projected results before treatment begins using computerized smile design software.

Traditional braces use metal or ceramic brackets bonded directly to each tooth, connected by an archwire that applies continuous pressure. Dr. Cohan periodically adjusts the wire tension at in-office visits to guide teeth into alignment. Braces are fixed appliances, meaning they stay on your teeth 24 hours a day until treatment is complete. For patients who prefer a less visible option but need the mechanical advantages of braces, ceramic brackets offer tooth-colored aesthetics with the same effectiveness as metal.

Invisalign vs Braces: Key Differences at a Glance

Factor	Invisalign	Traditional Braces
Appearance	Nearly invisible clear aligners	Visible metal or tooth-colored ceramic brackets and wires
Removability	Removable for eating, brushing, and flossing	Fixed in place for the duration of treatment
Comfort	Smooth plastic with no wires; mild pressure during aligner changes	Brackets and wires can irritate cheeks and lips, especially after adjustments
Treatment Time	6 to 18 months for most cases	12 months to 3 years depending on complexity
Office Visits	Every 6 to 10 weeks for progress checks	Every 4 to 6 weeks for wire adjustments
Dietary Restrictions	None — aligners are removed during meals	Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods that can damage brackets
Oral Hygiene	Brush and floss normally after removing aligners	Requires floss threaders, interdental brushes, or a water flosser
Best For	Mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and bite issues; adults and image-conscious teens	Complex cases, severe misalignment, significant bite correction, and younger patients
Cost Range	$3,000 to $7,000 depending on complexity	$2,500 to $7,500 depending on complexity and bracket type
Compliance	Must wear aligners 20 to 22 hours per day	No compliance needed — braces work continuously

 

Who Is a Good Candidate for Each Treatment?

Invisalign works well for patients who have mild to moderate crowding or spacing, want a discreet treatment option, are disciplined enough to wear aligners 20 to 22 hours per day, and prefer the convenience of removing their appliance to eat and maintain their oral hygiene. Invisalign is especially popular among adult professionals and image-conscious teenagers in communities like Downtown Summerlin, The Ridges, and Bears Best who want to straighten their teeth without the visible look of metal brackets.

Traditional braces are often the better choice for patients with severe crowding, large gaps, complex bite issues such as deep overbites or crossbites, or those who are younger teenagers whose teeth and jaws are still developing. Braces are also ideal for patients who may struggle with the self-discipline required to keep aligners in consistently.

During a consultation at our Summerlin office, Dr. Cohan will evaluate your specific orthodontic needs using 3D CBCT imaging and digital scanning, discuss your lifestyle and goals, and recommend the option most likely to deliver the best results for your unique situation.

What to Expect During Treatment at Summerlin Dental Solutions

With Invisalign: Your treatment begins with a TRIOS digital scan of your teeth — no messy putty impressions. Dr. Cohan uses this scan to create a custom 3D treatment plan, and you can preview your projected results on screen before committing. You receive a series of aligner trays, switch to a new set every one to two weeks at home, and visit our office every six to ten weeks for progress checks. Most patients complete treatment in 6 to 18 months. Summerlin Dental Solutions is currently offering $500 off Invisalign treatment for a limited time.

With traditional braces: Dr. Cohan bonds brackets to your teeth and threads an archwire through them. You return to the office every four to six weeks for wire adjustments. Treatment typically takes 12 months to 3 years depending on complexity. When braces are removed, you receive a retainer to maintain your results.

Both treatments require a retainer after active orthodontic work is complete. Patients who also want to enhance their smile with teeth whitening, veneers, or dental bonding can discuss combining treatments with Dr. Cohan for a comprehensive smile makeover.

Fair Fees, Insurance, and Zero-Down Financing

At Summerlin Dental Solutions, our fees are always fair and based on the complexity of your individual case — never inflated, never one-size-fits-all. Dr. Cohan believes every family in the Las Vegas Valley deserves access to high-quality orthodontic care, and our practice is structured to make that possible.

Many insurance companies cover orthodontic fees for your family. Most dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits cover Invisalign and braces equally, typically up to a lifetime orthodontic maximum. Our front office team verifies your specific insurance benefits before any treatment begins so you know your exact coverage and out-of-pocket costs in advance. We accept most major PPO, indemnity, and fee-for-service dental insurance plans.

For any remaining balance after insurance, flexible financing is available with $0 down. Through HFD (Healthcare Finance Direct), patients can spread their treatment cost over manageable monthly payments with 0% interest, no hidden fees, and approval in under a minute with no impact on your credit score. We also accept CareCredit, HSA, and FSA accounts. The total amount you pay is exactly the treatment cost — nothing more. Our treatment coordinators approach every financial conversation with patience, transparency, and zero pressure.

We recommend scheduling a consultation to receive an accurate cost estimate based on your individual treatment plan. Our team will review your insurance benefits and walk you through every available payment option before you commit to anything.

Orthodontic Care for Families Across the Las Vegas Valley

Summerlin Dental Solutions provides Invisalign and braces to patients from throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Our central Summerlin location at 851 S Rampart Blvd, Suite 230, Las Vegas, NV 89145 is easily accessible from every surrounding community:

• Queensridge — Just 5 to 10 minutes from our office. Many Queensridge families have trusted Dr. Cohan with their orthodontic care for over two decades.
• The Summit and The Ridges — Approximately 10 to 12 minutes away. Summit and Ridges residents expect the highest standard of care, and Dr. Cohan’s AACD-accredited artistry delivers it.
• Downtown Summerlin — Minutes from our office. Combine your orthodontic visit with shopping and dining at Downtown Summerlin, Tivoli Village, or Boca Park.
• Sun City Summerlin — A short drive for Sun City residents looking for advanced dental technology and a spa-like environment.
• Desert Shores — Approximately 10 to 15 minutes north. Desert Shores patients appreciate Dr. Cohan’s thoroughness and the warmth of her team.
• Spring Valley — 10 to 15 minutes south along the 215 Beltway. Spring Valley families are one of our largest patient communities.
• Rhodes Ranch — An easy drive via the 215. Rhodes Ranch patients consistently tell us the quality of care justifies choosing Summerlin Dental Solutions.
• Henderson, Anthem, and Seven Hills — Approximately 25 to 30 minutes via the 215 Beltway. Henderson families travel for the combination of AI-assisted diagnostics, AACD-accredited expertise, and an experience they have not found closer to home.
• Centennial Hills — Approximately 20 to 25 minutes. Centennial Hills is one of our fastest-growing patient communities.
• Paradise — Easy access via the 215 and I-15. Paradise residents appreciate the spa-like environment and advanced technology.
• Bears Best — A neighboring Summerlin community just minutes from our door.

Directions to Summerlin Dental Solutions

Our office is located at 851 S Rampart Blvd, Suite 230, Las Vegas, NV 89145, centrally positioned in the heart of Summerlin between Tivoli Village, Boca Park, and Downtown Summerlin on Rampart Boulevard. Free parking is available directly at the building, and the office is ADA-accessible with elevator access.

• From the 215 Beltway: Exit at Rampart Blvd and head north. The office is on the east side of Rampart between Alta and Charleston, in the professional building at 851 S Rampart.
• From Summerlin Parkway: Head south on Rampart Blvd. The office is approximately 2 miles south of Summerlin Parkway on the right.
• From Henderson via the 215: Take the 215 Beltway west to the Rampart Blvd exit. Head north on Rampart. Total drive time is approximately 25 to 30 minutes.
• From Centennial Hills: Take the 215 Beltway south and west to the Rampart Blvd exit, or take US-95 south to Summerlin Parkway west to Rampart Blvd south. Total drive time is approximately 20 to 25 minutes.

Office hours are Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. After-hours calls are triaged by our team for urgent dental emergencies. Call +1 (702) 341-9160 or book online anytime.

Complete Your Smile: Related Services at Summerlin Dental Solutions

Orthodontic treatment is often just one part of achieving your ideal smile. Dr. Cohan offers a full range of services under one roof so your care is always coordinated:

• Cosmetic Dentistry — Veneers, whitening, smile makeovers, and teeth contouring
• Dental Bonding — Repair chips and imperfections after straightening
• Botox and Fillers — Complement your new smile with facial rejuvenation
• Anti-Aging Dentistry — Reverse aging in the lower third of the face
• Dental Implants — Replace missing teeth before or after orthodontic treatment
• Crowns — Restore damaged teeth as part of a comprehensive plan
• Root Canal Therapy — Save infected teeth before starting orthodontics
• Preventive Care — Cleanings and exams to maintain results long-term
• Sedation Dentistry — Three levels of sedation for anxious patients
• Full Mouth Reconstruction — Comprehensive restoration for patients who need more than orthodontics alone

 

 

20 Frequently Asked Questions: Invisalign vs Braces

Below are 20 of the most common questions patients in Summerlin, Henderson, Spring Valley, and across the Las Vegas Valley ask when deciding between Invisalign and traditional braces at Summerlin Dental Solutions.

 

Q1: Can Invisalign fix an overbite as effectively as braces?

Invisalign can correct mild to moderate overbites using specially designed attachments and elastics that guide the jaw into proper alignment. Severe overbites involving significant skeletal discrepancy may respond better to traditional braces, which offer more precise control over vertical tooth movement. Dr. Cohan uses 3D CBCT imaging to assess the severity of your overbite and recommend the most effective approach during your consultation at our Summerlin office.

Q2: How many hours a day do I need to wear Invisalign aligners?

Invisalign aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours per day for optimal results. Remove them only for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing. Consistently wearing aligners fewer than 20 hours per day can slow treatment progress, extend your timeline, and compromise your final results.

Q3: Do braces hurt more than Invisalign?

Both treatments involve some discomfort as teeth move, but the type differs. Braces can cause soreness after wire adjustments and may irritate cheeks and lips. Invisalign produces a pressure sensation when switching to a new aligner tray, but the smooth plastic is less likely to cause soft tissue irritation. For patients with significant dental anxiety, Summerlin Dental Solutions offers sedation dentistry options to ensure comfort throughout treatment.

Q4: What happens if I lose an Invisalign aligner tray?

Contact our office at (702) 341-9160 right away. Depending on where you are in your treatment sequence, Dr. Cohan may recommend moving to the next aligner ahead of schedule, returning to the previous tray temporarily, or ordering a replacement. Acting quickly prevents your teeth from shifting out of their corrected positions.

Q5: Can I switch from braces to Invisalign partway through treatment?

Switching mid-treatment is possible in some cases but depends on your current progress and remaining orthodontic needs. Dr. Cohan would need to take new digital scans to create a fresh Invisalign treatment plan, which can add cost and time. Discussing your preference before starting treatment helps avoid this situation.

Q6: Are ceramic braces a good middle ground between metal braces and Invisalign?

Ceramic braces use tooth-colored or clear brackets that are less noticeable than metal while still providing the mechanical advantages of traditional braces. They are a solid option for patients who need the precision of braces but want a more discreet appearance. However, ceramic brackets can stain with certain foods and beverages and are slightly more fragile than metal.

Q7: Will Invisalign affect the way I speak?

Some patients notice a slight lisp during the first few days as their tongue adjusts to the plastic trays. This typically resolves within a week. Traditional braces can also temporarily affect speech, particularly when appliances like expanders or elastics are added.

Q8: Can I play sports with Invisalign or braces?

You can play sports with either treatment. With Invisalign, a sports mouthguard is still recommended for contact sports. With braces, a specially designed orthodontic mouthguard protects your lips, cheeks, and brackets from impact. Our team can recommend the right mouthguard for your activity level.

Q9: How do I keep my teeth clean with braces versus Invisalign?

With Invisalign, you remove the aligners and brush and floss normally. With braces, you need to brush carefully around each bracket and use floss threaders, interdental brushes, or a water flosser to clean between teeth and under the archwire. Regular preventive care visits at Summerlin Dental Solutions are important during either treatment to maintain your oral health.

Q10: Is Invisalign safe for teenagers?

Yes. Invisalign Teen includes compliance indicators built into the aligners that fade with wear so parents can verify their teenager is wearing the trays as directed. However, because Invisalign requires self-discipline, Dr. Cohan will assess whether your teenager is a good candidate based on maturity and commitment level.

Q11: What foods do I have to avoid with braces?

With braces, avoid hard foods like nuts, popcorn kernels, hard candy, and ice, as well as sticky foods like caramel, taffy, and chewing gum. These can break brackets or bend wires. With Invisalign, there are no food restrictions at all because you remove the aligners before every meal.

Q12: How often will I need to visit the dentist during orthodontic treatment?

Invisalign patients typically visit our Summerlin office every six to ten weeks for progress checks. Traditional braces require visits every four to six weeks for wire adjustments. The fewer required visits with Invisalign can be a significant advantage for busy families traveling from Henderson, Centennial Hills, or other communities farther from Summerlin.

Q13: Can Invisalign close gaps between teeth?

Invisalign is very effective at closing small to moderate gaps. For very large gaps or gaps resulting from missing teeth, Dr. Cohan may recommend braces or a combination approach involving Invisalign alongside dental implants or bridges to achieve the best result.

Q14: Do I need a retainer after Invisalign or braces?

Yes. A retainer is essential after completing either treatment. Without one, teeth have a natural tendency to drift back toward their original positions. Most patients wear a retainer full-time for the first few months, then transition to nighttime-only wear. Dr. Cohan will provide a specific retainer schedule based on your case.

Q15: What are Invisalign attachments, and will they be visible?

Attachments are small, tooth-colored composite bumps bonded to certain teeth to help the aligners grip and move teeth more precisely. They blend in with your natural tooth color and are subtle enough that most people will not notice them. They are removed at the end of treatment without damage to your enamel.

Q16: Can I whiten my teeth during orthodontic treatment?

With Invisalign, you can discuss whitening options with Dr. Cohan, as some patients use whitening products in their aligner trays. With braces, whitening is generally not recommended until after brackets are removed, because areas under the brackets will not be treated evenly. Most patients achieve the best results by completing orthodontic treatment first, then whitening as part of a cosmetic dentistry plan.

Q17: What is the youngest age a child can get Invisalign?

Invisalign First is designed for children as young as six whose baby teeth and permanent teeth are coming in at the same time. Traditional Invisalign for comprehensive treatment is generally more appropriate once most or all permanent teeth have erupted, typically around age 12 or older. Dr. Cohan treats families with children of all ages and can determine the right timing during a consultation.

Q18: Will my dental insurance cover Invisalign the same as braces?

Most dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits cover Invisalign and braces equally, typically up to a lifetime orthodontic maximum. Many insurance companies cover your family’s orthodontic fees, and our team will verify your benefits before treatment begins. Visit our insurance and financial information page for details, or call (702) 341-9160 and our team will check your coverage over the phone.

Q19: Can I get Invisalign if I have crowns, veneers, or dental implants?

Invisalign can often work around crowns and veneers, though attachments may not bond as securely to these surfaces. Dental implants cannot be moved by aligners because they are fused to the jawbone, so Dr. Cohan will design the treatment plan around any existing implants. A thorough evaluation with our AI-assisted diagnostics will determine whether Invisalign is feasible for your specific dental situation.

Q20: How do I get started with Invisalign or braces at Summerlin Dental Solutions?

Schedule a consultation by calling (702) 341-9160 or booking online. You can also start with a free virtual consultation from the comfort of your home. Dr. Cohan will evaluate your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment using advanced digital imaging, review your lifestyle and cosmetic preferences, and explain which treatment will deliver the best outcome. Our team will verify your insurance benefits and present 0% financing options with $0 down before you commit to anything. We serve families from The Summit, The Ridges, Queensridge, Henderson, Centennial Hills, Spring Valley, Desert Shores, Rhodes Ranch, Paradise, Bears Best, and all surrounding communities. We look forward to helping you and your family achieve the smile you deserve.

 

Ready to Find Out Which Option Is Right for You?

Call +1 (702) 341-9160 or schedule online to book your consultation with Dr. Marianne Cohan at Summerlin Dental Solutions, 851 S Rampart Blvd, Suite 230, Las Vegas, NV 89145. Fair fees based on your case complexity, insurance accepted, and 0% financing with $0 down available. Serving Summerlin, Henderson, Spring Valley, Centennial Hills, and the entire Las Vegas Valley. 19-time Best of Las Vegas winner. Over 31 years of experience. Your smile is in the best hands.