How Does Six Month Smiles® Differ From Invisalign® Aligners?

By: Dr. Jacob Sheppard

2/18/2023

Many teenagers and adults suffer from misaligned teeth that can hurt their self-esteem. However, traditional metal braces are bulky, and Invisalign aligners can take a long time. With Six Month Smiles, you can address the teeth you need and have a smile you love in as little as six months. Dr. Jacob Sheppard can help you determine if this is a good treatment option for you. Schedule a consultation with Sycamore Family Dentistry in Midlothian, VA today.

What is Six Month Smiles?

Six Month Smiles is an orthodontic treatment designed to efficiently treat misaligned teeth by targeting just the teeth that need to be addressed while leaving the rest alone. You can choose to use either clear braces or translucent aligning trays to help you treat your smile. Six Month Smiles is more comfortable than traditional treatments and can be completed in as little as six months. This treatment is a subtle but effective way to adjust your teeth into their most ideal positions.

How is Six Month Smiles different than Invisalign aligners?

There are a few key differences between Six Month Smiles treatment and the more common Invisalign aligners. Some of these differences include:

  • How much of your mouth is treated: The Six Month Smiles treatment only treats teeth that need it. Invisalign aligners, on the other hand, treat the whole mouth even if only a few of the teeth need to be addressed.

  • What can be treated: Six Month Smiles is designed to treat mild crowding and gaps in your teeth. Invisalign aligners can treat more severe misalignments and crowding while also helping to fix bite issues.

  • Time frame: With Six Month Smiles, you can completely finish treatment in just six months. With Invisalign aligners, it typically takes between 12 – 18 months.

  • The number of office visits: Six Month Smiles treatment only requires office visits once every four weeks. However, with Invisalign, you would need to go in for office visits every two weeks to get new aligners.

Dr. Sheppard can help you decide which orthodontic treatment may be best for you.

What should I know about Six Month Smiles?

Ideal candidates for Six Month Smiles treatment are teenagers over the age of 16 and adults who want to treat minor dental issues like overcrowding, gaps, and minor crowding. This treatment can only work on the front teeth on both your upper and lower jaw. This teeth straightening method is faster than more traditional treatments like metal braces or Invisalign aligners. Dental impressions and digital x-rays will be used to create your custom aligners or clear braces to begin your treatment.

Where can I get Six Month Smiles in Midlothian, VA?


Treatment with Six Month Smiles is quick and effective for minor issues. This treatment addresses issues on the front of your teeth, so it may not be the best option for all dental problems you may have. This treatment also uses clear braces or aligners so that you can go about your daily life without any disruptions. Jacob Sheppard, DDS can help you find the best option for your dental goals and needs while keeping in mind other factors. Contact Sycamore Family Dentistry in Midlothian, VA today for a full consultation on the overall state of your oral and dental health.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.