Posted on November 18, 2025
There’s something exciting about deciding to straighten your teeth. It’s not just about appearances—it’s about feeling more confident, speaking more clearly, and setting yourself up for better oral health down the road. But when it comes to how to do it, the choice between braces and clear aligners can feel a little overwhelming at first.
At Harnick Orthodontics in Albuquerque, we walk patients through this decision every day. Dr. Kari Harnick Graeber and Dr. David Harnick believe orthodontic treatment should work with your lifestyle—not against it. Let’s take a closer look at both options so you can feel more confident walking into that first appointment.
Braces are the classics for a reason. They’ve been straightening teeth for generations, and today’s versions are more comfortable and streamlined than ever. Braces are particularly effective when teeth are severely crowded, misaligned, or when there are significant bite issues (think overbite, underbite, crossbite—you name it).
Because they’re fixed to your teeth, braces are always “on the job,” so you don’t have to worry about remembering to put them back in after eating or brushing. This can be a big plus for younger patients—or anyone who’s not sure they’ll be able to wear aligners consistently.
You can even customize them a bit with colorful bands or opt for clear ceramic brackets for a more discreet look. Braces may not be invisible, but they are dependable workhorses when it comes to getting results.
Clear aligners, like Invisalign®, have exploded in popularity—and for good reason. These smooth, nearly invisible trays are custom-fit to your teeth and gently shift them into place over time.
One of their biggest perks? You can take them out. Want to eat corn on the cob? Go for it. Want to brush and floss without navigating wires? No problem. Aligners give you freedom, flexibility, and a more low-profile appearance—great for professionals, students, or anyone who doesn’t love the idea of brackets on their teeth.
That said, aligners only work when you wear them. If they’re out of your mouth for too long each day, your progress slows down. So, if you’re considering aligners, it’s important to be honest with yourself about how well you’ll stick to the routine.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. Some patients are better suited to braces; others are great candidates for aligners. During your consultation, our team will evaluate your teeth, bite, and goals to help you make the best decision for your smile.
We’ll look at things like:
In some cases, people start with braces and finish with aligners—or vice versa. The great news is, you’ve got options.
At Harnick Orthodontics, we’re not just about straight teeth—we’re about helping people feel good when they smile. Whether braces sound like a good fit or you’re curious about clear aligners, we’re here to answer your questions and make sure you feel comfortable every step of the way.
Come see us in Albuquerque and let’s talk about what makes sense for your lifestyle, goals, and timeline. Straightening your teeth doesn’t have to be a big mystery—it can be a simple, empowering step toward a healthier, more confident you. Ready to get started? We’re just a call away.
"Dear Patients,
I am writing to share an important update about our practice. After much thought and consideration, I have made the very difficult decision to consolidate our two locations into one main office at Montgomery Pkwy. This was not a decision I made lightly, as I know how important convenience and continuity are for our patients and families.
Please know that my patients remain my top priority, and I want to ensure that no one feels left without support during this transition. To help with this, I worked out an arrangement with the new owner of the Golf Course Rd. office that will allow me to continue seeing patients there for a period of time after the transition.
Appointments at the Golf Course office will be limited.
Preference will be given to patients who began treatment at the Golf Course location.
Over time, most patients will transition fully to our Montgomery Pkwy office.
This arrangement was made with you in mind—to provide continuity of care and make the transition as smooth as possible.
I want to thank you for trusting us with your orthodontic care. I am committed to seeing you through your treatment and look forward to continuing your journey at our Montgomery Pkwy location.
If you have any questions about scheduling or the transition, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office.
With gratitude,
Kari Harnick Graeber DDS, MS
Harnick Orthodontics"
