Can You Switch from Braces to Invisalign Mid-Treatment?

If you’re already in orthodontic treatment and wondering whether you can switch from braces to Invisalign (or vice-versa), the answer is often yes. At Waddoups Orthodontics in Murrieta and Corona, Dr. Samuel Waddoups and his team help many patients navigate this exact decision. Whether you want something more discreet, more convenient, or simply better suited to your lifestyle, switching is sometimes possible depending on your progress and orthodontic needs.

Below is a clear, step-by-step look at when switching works, how it happens, and what you should consider before making the transition.

 

When Is Switching from Braces to Invisalign Possible?

You can switch from braces to Invisalign if the remaining tooth movement is appropriate for clear aligners.
Your orthodontist evaluates several factors before approving a switch:

• How far along are you?
• How much correction is still needed?
• Whether your bite is stable or still requires major adjustments.
• Your oral hygiene habits.
• Your ability to wear aligners consistently.

Invisalign works best for moderate alignment needs or when braces have already completed the heavier, complex movements.

Why Some Patients Prefer to Switch to Invisalign?

Common motivations include:

• Wanting a more discreet look
• Preferring fewer food restrictions
• Needing easier brushing and flossing
• Wanting lighter visits or fewer wire adjustments
  
  
  

Can You Switch from Invisalign to Braces Mid-Treatment?

Yes. Switching from Invisalign to braces is also possible when a case requires stronger control.

Situations that may lead to switching include:

• Complex movement or bite correction needing wires and brackets
• Aligners not being worn enough hours each day
• Teeth that are not “tracking” as predicted
• A desire for a more “hands-off” treatment style

 

How Orthodontists Determine Whether a Switch Is Needed?

Dr. Waddoups evaluates:

• Progress shown in digital scans
• Whether aligners are fitting properly
• Bite stability
• Remaining tooth movement

If braces would deliver better results, switching helps keep your treatment efficient.

 

What Happens When You Switch Treatment Types?

Switching doesn’t restart treatment; it simply shifts the method guiding your teeth.

Switching From Braces to Invisalign

You can expect:

1. Brackets and wires to be evaluated for removal
   
   
2. A digital scan of your teeth
   
   
3. A new Invisalign treatment plan for remaining movement
   
   
4. Instructions on wear time, hygiene, and next steps
   
   

Switching From Invisalign to Braces

This process typically involves:

1. Evaluating aligner progress
   
   
2. Planning bracket placement
   
   
3. Bonding brackets and inserting wires
   
   
4. Reviewing food guidelines and care instructions
   
   

Timelines may shift depending on how much correction is left.

Braces vs Invisalign When Switching Mid-Treatment

Feature	Braces (Fixed)	Invisalign (Removable)
Always working	Yes	Only when worn
Best for complex bites	✔ Strong control	Limited for severe cases
Food restrictions	More	Very few
Hygiene difficulty	Higher	Lower
Patient discipline needed	Moderate	High
Switching into	Good when aligners aren’t effective	Good for finishing touches

This comparison helps determine which system suits your goals and remaining treatment.

 

Important Factors to Consider Before Switching

1. Treatment Complexity

If your case started with braces due to complexity, Invisalign may only work for the finishing stages and not major corrections.

2. Timing in Treatment

• Switching early → may require more adjustments
  
  
• Switching mid-treatment → often easiest
  
  
• Switching near the end → clear aligners can help polish small details
  
  

3. Compliance and Lifestyle

Invisalign requires wearing trays 20–22 hours daily.
If consistency is a challenge, braces may be a better fit.

4. Cost and Timeline Changes

Switching can involve:

• New scans
  
  
• Updated appliances
  
  
• Slightly changed timelines
  
  

Dr. Waddoups reviews all possible adjustments before moving forward.

5. Comfort and Aesthetic Goals

Clear aligners work well for patients who value flexibility and invisibility.
Braces offer maximum control for challenging movements.

 

How Waddoups Orthodontics Helps You Decide?

At Waddoups Orthodontics, the team ensures you fully understand your options. You’ll receive:

• A complete evaluation of your progress
  
  
• A clear explanation of pros and cons
  
  
• A realistic treatment timeline
  
  
• Transparent cost details
  
  
• Supportive guidance to help you choose confidently
  
  

Dr. Waddoups believes in a collaborative process so treatment stays comfortable and effective.

 

Ready to Explore Switching Your Treatment?

Whether you are partway through braces, finishing Invisalign, or simply unsure which method fits your lifestyle best, Waddoups Orthodontics is here to help.

Schedule a consultation at our Murrieta or Corona office to explore your options and map out the next step toward your ideal smile.

 

Quick Recap:

• Yes, you can switch between braces and Invisalign in many cases.
  
  
• Switching works best when the remaining movements fit the capabilities of the new treatment.
  
  
• Factors like timing, complexity, compliance, cost, and lifestyle guide the decision.
  
  
• Switching does not restart treatment; it simply adjusts the method used to finish your smile.
  
  
• Dr. Waddoups provides expert evaluation and clear guidance to help you choose confidently.