There are many treatment options available for crooked or misaligned teeth. Patients can choose traditional metal braces, opt for the popular Invisalign braces, or look at other clear aligners alternatives. At Rod W. Gore DDS, we like to give our patients the benefit of choice. Our dentist will carefully examine your teeth to understand their current alignment. This will help us determine if clear aligners are a good option for you. Some patients need metal braces to correct their problem effectively.
If aligners are a practical treatment choice for you, our dentist will offer Invisalign or other clear aligner options. Here’s a look at the difference between these two options so you can make an informed decision on the matter:
Similarities Between Invisalign and Clear Aligners
Invisalign has become synonymous with clear aligners, but this brand isn’t your only option. Several other reliable manufacturers have launched aligner products. Here’s a look at some of the similarities between clear aligners, including Invisalign:
- Made From Clear Plastic – Clear aligners are popular because they don’t stand out as much as regular metal braces. They are made from transparent plastic and are barely noticeable, which makes them a popular choice with patients of all ages. Invisalign uses a propriety plastic material called SmartTrack to manufacture the aligners. Other products use soft, skin-friendly plastic to produce similar results. Both options are clear, nearly undetectable, and discreet.
- Easy To Remove – Both Invisalign and other clear aligner alternatives are easy to remove. You can just pull the aligner trays off your teeth to brush, floss, or eat. As long as you keep the aligners on for 22 hours a day, you will see tangible results.
- Customized – Invisalign and clear aligners are customized treatments. Our dentist will make a mold of your teeth, take 3D scans, and then use the measurements to create the aligners. This ensures the trays fit comfortably on your teeth and are effective. Our dentist will use the latest and more accurate scanning technology for both treatment options.
- Treatment Duration – Whether you use generic clear aligners or Invisalign, the treatment process and duration is similar. Most patients need around 12 months and a dozen trays to move their teeth into the best position. The treatment duration and approach varies from one patient to another, but there is no other difference.
As you can see, both Invisalign and other clear aligners offer similar benefits. Invisalign has a few more bells and whistles, but if you’re looking for treatment effectiveness, either option will work satisfactorily.
Differences Between Invisalign and Clear Aligners
Now that we have looked at the similarities, it is time to focus on the differences. What makes clear aligners different from Invisalign? It all comes down to the cost of the treatment. Invisalign is relatively expensive, and even the most affordable treatment option may be heavy on your pocket. The treatment costs can range anywhere between $4500 and $9000.
Invisalign is also a more hands-on treatment. You will have to visit the dentist at least once every 4-6 weeks to keep track of the progress. That can add to the cost and make the treatment more expensive over time.
Invisalign aligner trays are a little more expensive to replace as well. If you misplace or damage them during the treatment, you will have to spend money on the replacement.
Regular clear aligners are considerably cheaper, and you have a lot more options available. This treatment is much more flexible, so you don’t need to visit the dentist as often. It is advisable to get a check-up regularly to ensure the treatment is on track, but it isn’t necessary. These aligners are also more affordable to replace if you lose or damage them.
If you want to know more about our dentist, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Rod W. Gore DDS. You can call at 480 585 6225 or contact us directly.