There is an increasing need among adults for discreet orthodontic treatment, stemming from the inclination to enhance their appearance without capturing attention to their braces. It has also become easier for adults to undergo treatment with technologically advanced and aesthetically pleasing options like Invisalign and clear aligners.
Options like Invisalign are a modern alternative to metal braces since it is an invisible method to straighten the teeth with removable, custom-made, and transparent plastic trays. It is aesthetically appealing and it also allows high oral hygiene.
It is crucial to choose the ideal treatment based on your individual needs because it can help with the patient experience and even the recovery. This blog will equip you with the knowledge you need to decide what’s the better choice for your orthodontic treatment.
Invisalign: Basics, working, and features
It is a high-end brand of transparent aligners that help straighten the teeth without relying on traditional metal braces. It is much more comfortable and discreet than traditional braces.
Working
- Invisalign treatment usually begins with a digital scan of your teeth with 3D image scanning techniques. This scan helps doctors create an accurate and customized treatment plan, where every aligner is developed for a comfortable fit that allows for optimal movement of your teeth.
- The treatment includes multiple aligners, with each one being slightly distinct from the other. These are to be worn for 20-22 hours a day and they have to be replaced every 1-2 weeks.
- There are plenty of at-home aligner brands, but Invisalign is always prescribed by licensed orthodontists.
Key features
- These aligners are made from SmartTrack, a patented and durable thermoplastic material that provides great flexibility and comfort.
- SmartTrack puts a gentle but consistent application of pressure, which allows for controlled but predictable tooth movement.
- Invisalign also uses attachments for advanced orthodontic cases. These attachments are then placed on the teeth to help ease difficult movements. Rubber bands are incorporated in some cases to prevent overbite or underbite problems.
Depending on the situation’s intricacy, the treatment time for Invisalign ranges from 6-18 months or sometimes more if it involves any jaw surgery planning. However, patients notice significant changes within a few weeks of commencing treatment.
What Are Other Clear Aligners?
Other clear aligners are orthodontic devices that help straighten teeth and are an effective alternative to metal braces. Although Invisalign is the most known brand here, there are multiple alternatives. Here are a few brands for your reference.
Aligners overlooked by a licensed provider :
- ClearCorrect: It is very similar to Invisalign with certain other nuances .
- Spark Aligners: They are very similar to invisalign as well, overlooked by orthodontists and the material and attachment tools are slightly different than invisalign.
Direct to Consumer aligners :
- Byte: This clear assigner is famous for its HyperByte® technology that claims to quicken the treatment (3-6 months). It holds the risks for unwanted movements of roots and/or teeth as they are planned with limited information from the patients and
- Smile Direct Club: Unlike Invisalign, Smile Direct Club is an at-home aligner brand that offers remote treatment. It closed down due to the risks involved in such treatments.
- Candid: This clear aligner has a hybrid model with physical scans and remote monitoring.These Direct to consumer brands offer cheaper treatments but are only for very selective candidates.
Working
- In-office brands: Brands like ClearCorrect, Spark or Invisalign require supervision from orthodontists general dentists. Planning and treatment complexity is better handled when the treatment is overlooked by Orthodontists as this is what they specialize in through a 3 year long residency to become experts.
- Remote brands: Smile Direct Club and Byte use remote monitoring features and mail-in impressions. They do not use the attachments that is what grabs and moves the teeth under the tray, hence treatment outcomes are not predicatble.
Invisalign vs. Other Clear Aligners
As observed below, Invisalign and other clear aligners differ in fit, quality, material, and other features.
| Aspect | Invisalign | Other At Home Clear Aligners |
| Customization and technology | Uses state-of-the-art 3D scanning techniques to create an accurate and custom-fit aligner for every patient.It also features SmartTrack material that provides comfort and durability. | Differing from brand to brand, other clear aligners use different plastics, which affects the effectiveness of the treatment, as well as the fit and flexibility. |
| Supervision and effectiveness | Invisalign treatments require in-person monitoring and a prescription from an orthodontist. This automatically ensures frequent adjustments, allowing better outcomes. | Although some brands like Candid offer initial physical scans and remote monitoring, at-home aligners rely on self-reported progress. It can lead to higher complications and relatively less accurate results. |
| Complexity of treatment | Invisalign has the potential to handle orthodontic cases that can be mild, moderate, or complex. It uses elastics and attachments for complex issues like biting and major misalignments. We can also plan jaw surgery cases with aligners these days. | Many in-person clear aligner brands can tackle complex issues, but at-home aligner brands are pretty much limited to mild cases since comprehensive adjustments require expert supervision. Lack of tools like attachments and elastics makes it less predictable. |
| Cost & ease of access | Invisalign aligners’ price ranges between $2,000 and $10,000, depending on professional oversight, adjustments, and consultations. If you have dental insurance that helps along with in house financing options that we offer to make it affordable for everyone | Prescribed aligners with professional oversight cost more than D2C aligners, which are generally cheaper and usually range from $1,500-$3,000. However, the lack of supervision can impact positive results. As well as these are completely out of pocket expenses. |
Who Should Choose Invisalign Over Other Clear Aligners?
To be precise, all clear aligners help straighten teeth, but out of all of them, Invisalign is the superior choice, considering its features. It is best for people seeking professional help and advanced treatment.
Adults who have complex orthodontic issues like moderate to severe misalignment can opt for Invisalign since the attachments and elastics can make way for more control over tooth movement. At-home aligners can correct mild issues, but Invisalign is made to deal with such intricate cases.
Since Invisalign requires in-person treatment by an orthodontist, it is an excellent choice for those looking for medically supervised treatment. The frequent check-ups will reduce the risk of complications and ensure on-track progress.
Invisalign is equipped with the latest technologies that help provide a snug and customized fit with control over movement. Advanced technologies also help create an elaborate plan, which ensures predictable results, unlike other clear aligners. Therefore, patients who prefer the latest technology should opt for it.
The SmartTrack material in Invisalign reduces irritation and provides a comfortable fit. The customized approach facilitates stability and long-term alignment, with minimal risk of teeth shifting back. Invisalign is one of the best choices for adults looking for comfort and long-term results.
Conclusion
If you’re considering Invisalign or other clear aligners, this is a good time to start, and you can take the first step today. Feel free to schedule a consultation with our skilled orthodontists at Art of Smile, Philadelphia and learn how we can align your teeth properly and give you a smile that shines with confidence. Your way to a radiant smile can start today with us!
