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Back to School: Braces or Invisalign?

Back-to-school season in East Texas means full calendars across Longview ISD, Pine Tree ISD, Spring Hill ISD, Hallsville ISD and all the other ISDs in East Texas. Between exams, sports practices, and band rehearsals, finding time for medical or dental appointments can feel overwhelming. At Mack and Hansen Orthodontics, treatment options like Invisalign® and flexible office hours keep student schedules front and center.

Invisalign: Built for Busy Academic Schedules

For teens and adults seeking orthodontic care without constant interruptions to the school week, clear aligners offer unmatched lifestyle flexibility:

  • Fewer In-Office Visits: Traditional braces require manual wire adjustments every 6 to 8 weeks. Invisalign aligners are pre-planned digitally, allowing Drs. Spencer Mack and Andrew Hansen to send patients home with multiple tray sets so in-office progress checks occur every 8 to 12 weeks.
  • Virtually Zero Repair Emergencies: Because clear aligners use no metal brackets or archwires, sudden midday visits for broken brackets or pokey wires are eliminated—keeping students in class where they belong.
  • Uncompromised Extracurriculars: Aligners remove easily for lunch periods, brass instrument practice, and school sports without requiring specialty mouthguards or dietary restrictions.

Open on Fridays: A Major Advantage for East Texas Families

Finding time during the traditional work and school week can be tough, especially for families traveling from Kilgore, Marshall, Gilmer, Henderson, Carthage, or Mount Pleasant.

Unlike many orthodontic practices that close on Fridays, Mack and Hansen Orthodontics stays open every Friday. This dedicated availability allows students to get their routine check-ups, digital scans, or new aligner deliveries without missing core morning classes or taking time off during peak block scheduling.

Comparing School-Year Treatment Options

Scheduling Factor Invisalign® Clear Aligners Traditional Braces
Appointment Frequency Every 8–20 weeks Every 6–10 weeks
Unplanned Visits Extemely low Low-to-moderate
Classroom Disruption Minimal (fewer total appointments) Moderate (routine wire adjustments)
Friday Appointments Available at Longview office Available at Longview office
Flexibility with Invisalign at Mack and Hansen Orthodontics

Whether initiating treatment for a middle schooler or starting a smile journey before college applications, Drs. Spencer Mack and Andrew Hansen make high-quality orthodontic care fit smoothly into the East Texas school calendar. Schedule a complimentary consultation in Longview to explore flexible scheduling options today.

What patients are saying

“My daughter was very insecure about her teeth. She went from insecure to non-stop smiling in just a few months! For me that was just amazing! We love Mack & Hansen’s welcoming environment and their staff...always smiling, very helpful, energetic, and the most friendly in/out of the office. We Thank You All! I am FOREVER grateful for 'HER' smile!” ~ Sophia H. of Longview “My child actually looks forward to her orthodontist appointments!! The staff is always so friendly and it’s a positive, uplifting environment.” ~ Kara H. of Hallsville “I love the efficiency of Mack & Hansen Orthodontics. They have thought of everything when it comes to making a great customer impact. Not only are they skilled at making beautiful smiles, but they care about their patients. They are welcoming, up-to-date on technology, and really have hit the nail on great customer service! I would recommend them to anyone!” ~ Anita N. of Henderson “They have the absolute sweetest people working here! Every team member interacts with each patient. They show so much care for everyone and make you feel like family! I am so glad my braces experience has been with Mack & Hansen Orthodontics!” ~ Bonnie C. of Mount Pleasant “I love Mack & Hansen! Getting braces as an adult can be nerve racking, but this office has made my experience very comfortable! They offer great payment plans too. If you need anything they are very prompt with getting you seen or answering questions. Also, the new office is incredible and has an amazing mural painted outside.” ~ Alex M. of Kilgore “Absolutely the BEST orthodontists and office staff in town!  Always making sure we are taken care of and helping us on our smile journey!  Not to mention FUN!  Their ability to have fun makes it so much more enjoyable for their patients!” ~ Melissa H. of Marshall