Invisalign or composite bonding for gaps between teeth?

What is the difference between Invisalign and composite bonding for a gap?

Invisalign moves your existing teeth into different positions, so the gap is closed by changing where the teeth sit. Composite bonding leaves the teeth where they are and adds tooth-coloured material to change their shape, so the gap looks narrower or closed.

What decides which one suits your case?

Suitability depends on why the gap is there, how wide it is, the shape and size of your teeth, how your bite works and the health of your teeth and gums. Those things can only be judged at an assessment, which is why neither option is automatically the right answer.

• The cause of the gap — spacing, tooth size, tooth shape or previous tooth movement
• How wide the space is, and whether closing it would affect the bite
• The condition of the teeth either side and of your gums
• What you want to change, and how much you want done

Can the two be used together?

Sometimes. In some cases teeth are aligned first and small shape changes are made afterwards, because moving teeth into better positions can make any reshaping more conservative. Whether a combined approach is appropriate is a clinical judgement for your own case.

What are the trade-offs to be aware of?

Aligner treatment takes months and needs retainers afterwards, because teeth can drift back. Bonding is quicker but adds material to the tooth, and composite can stain, chip or need repair, repolishing or replacement over time.

We explain the maintenance involved in either route before you decide, rather than after.

Which is cheaper?

It depends entirely on the case: a single small change may be far less involved than full aligner treatment, while a large or complex case can be the other way round. Both are quoted in writing after assessment, and 0% finance is available subject to status and applicable terms.