Adults in Central Kentucky no longer need to wear bulky metal braces to straighten their teeth. Two popular clear aligner systems—Invisalign and Six Month Smiles—offer discreet, comfortable orthodontic treatment. Whether you live near Wellington Park, work along the Nicholasville Road corridor, or study at the University of Kentucky, this guide compares both options so you can choose the right aligner for your smile goals, budget, and lifestyle.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways (TL;DR)
- Invisalign — Treats a wide range of cases (crowding, spacing, mild to moderate bite issues). Average treatment 12‑18 months. Removable, nearly invisible aligners.
- Six Month Smiles — Focuses only on front teeth (social six). Uses clear brackets and tooth‑colored wires. Average treatment 4‑9 months. Lower cost but limited to mild crowding/spacing.
- Key difference — Invisalign addresses bite and full arch; Six Month Smiles is cosmetic only, for front teeth alignment without changing bite.
- Cost range* — Invisalign $3,000‑$8,000; Six Month Smiles $2,500‑$5,500. Insurance may cover part if medically necessary.
- Lexington access — Both options are widely available at local practices near Beaumont Centre, The Summit, and along Nicholasville Road.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a clear aligner system that uses a series of custom‑made, removable trays to gradually move teeth. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before switching to the next. The system can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, including:
- Mild to moderate crowding
- Spacing (gaps between teeth)
- Crossbites, overbites, and underbites (mild to moderate)
- Relapse after previous braces
Invisalign uses SmartTrack material and attachments (small tooth‑colored bumps) for better control. Treatment typically takes 12‑18 months, but simple cases can be as short as 6 months. Patients wear aligners 20‑22 hours per day, removing them only to eat, brush, and floss.
What Is Six Month Smiles?
Six Month Smiles is a short‑term orthodontic system that focuses exclusively on the front teeth (the “social six” – canines to canines). It uses clear brackets and tooth‑colored wires, making it much less noticeable than traditional metal braces. The average treatment time is 4‑9 months, hence the name.
This system is designed for adults who want cosmetic improvement of their smile without changing their bite. It works best for:
- Mild crowding of front teeth
- Small gaps between front teeth
- Slightly rotated or tilted front teeth
- Patients who do not need bite correction
Six Month Smiles uses gentle, low‑force wires that move teeth quickly. Because it does not address the back teeth or bite, it is not suitable for patients with significant malocclusion, jaw issues, or posterior crossbites.
Invisalign vs. Six Month Smiles: Detailed Comparison
*Pricing information provided is for educational and research purposes only and does not represent the actual fees or estimates of Dental Wellness of Lexington. Contact the practice directly for current pricing.
Which Is Right for You?
Choose Invisalign if you:
- Need moderate crowding, spacing, or bite correction.
- Want the freedom to remove aligners for eating and brushing.
- Are willing to commit to 20‑22 hours of wear per day.
- Don’t mind a longer treatment time (12‑18 months).
Choose Six Month Smiles if you:
- Have mild crowding or gaps only on your front teeth.
- Do not need bite correction.
- Want faster results (4‑9 months).
- Are on a tighter budget.
- Don’t mind fixed brackets (though they are clear and tooth‑colored).
A consultation with a Lexington orthodontist or cosmetic dentist is the best way to determine candidacy. Many practices near Beaumont Centre and The Summit at Fritz Farm offer digital scans and treatment simulations for both systems.
Cost and Insurance Considerations
Both Invisalign and Six Month Smiles are often covered by dental insurance if orthodontic benefits are included. Typically, plans cover 50% of treatment up to a lifetime maximum ($1,000‑$2,500).
Factors affecting out‑of‑pocket cost:
- Complexity and length of treatment.
- Geographic location (Lexington prices are moderate compared to national averages).
- Provider experience and tier (Invisalign has different provider levels).
- Whether you need additional procedures (attachments, IPR, retainers).
Many Lexington dental offices offer payment plans, in‑house financing, or third‑party options like CareCredit. Always request a written treatment plan before starting.
Local Considerations for Lexington Patients
- Provider availability – Invisalign is widely available at general and cosmetic dental practices. Six Month Smiles is offered by fewer providers; call ahead to confirm.
- University crowd – UK students and faculty often prefer Invisalign because aligners can be removed for lectures, meals, and social events.
- Seasonal scheduling – Many adults start treatment in January (using FSA/HSA funds) or during summer breaks.
- Local orthodontic specialists – For complex cases, a board‑certified orthodontist may be preferable; for simple cosmetic cases, a general dentist with advanced training may suffice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – People Also Ask
Is Six Month Smiles cheaper than Invisalign?
Generally, yes. Six Month Smiles typically costs $2,500‑$5,500, while Invisalign ranges from $3,000‑$8,000. However, the final cost depends on case complexity and provider.
Does Six Month Smiles work for bite problems?
No. Six Month Smiles is designed only for cosmetic alignment of front teeth. It does not correct overbites, underbites, crossbites, or jaw issues.
Can I eat with Invisalign?
No. You remove Invisalign aligners before eating or drinking anything except water. This prevents staining and damage to the aligners.
Which is more comfortable?
Most patients find Invisalign more comfortable because there are no brackets or wires to irritate cheeks and lips. Six Month Smiles uses low‑force wires, but some irritation is still possible.
How do I find a provider in Lexington?
Search the Invisalign provider directory or ask your general dentist for a referral. Many cosmetic dentists in areas like Beaumont Centre and along Nicholasville Road offer both systems.
About the Author
Dr. Maxie Combs, DMD is a general and cosmetic dentist at Dental Wellness of Lexington. He has extensive experience with both Invisalign and short‑term orthodontic systems, helping adults achieve straighter smiles without metal braces. Learn more on the Meet the Dentists page.
Last reviewed: April 2026. Sources: American Association of Orthodontists, Invisalign clinical data, Six Month Smiles provider materials.
For more cosmetic dentistry options, read our guide to Cosmetic Dentistry in Lexington. Explore all smile enhancement services on our Cosmetic Dentistry service page. For a complete overview of local dental care, see the Dentist in Lexington KY guide. Return to Dental Wellness of Lexington homepage.
