By Maylands Dental Centre 
If you’ve been searching for a solution to address your crooked teeth or looking for a smile transformation, you may have come across Invisalign as an option. But what makes Invisalign different from other clear aligner systems?
There are some similarities between all forms of orthodontic aligners. However, many distinct differences make each system unique.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss how Invisalign differs from other types of invisible braces. We’ll also discover why it has become a popular choice among adults seeking treatment for misaligned teeth and bites.
Keep reading as we help you make an informed decision about your dental care journey.
Blog Navigation
What Are Aligners?
Aligners are clear, removable orthodontic devices that help align teeth and improve the overall bite. They come in many systems, with Invisalign being the most popular. These clear, plastic aligners fit comfortably over your teeth like a mouthguard. They gradually shift teeth into their proper position.
Compared to traditional braces, clear aligners are easy to take care of. They can be removed for cleaning and other activities such as eating.
With aligner treatment, the treatment duration is shorter. Because of the continuous low force exerted on the teeth, the teeth can move faster, and your desired results are achieved in a shorter time. Clear aligner treatment usually lasts between 12-18 months, compared to traditional dental braces, which usually take 2-3 years.
Whether you’re looking for cosmetic improvements or want a straighter smile, clear aligners offer an effective alternative that fits most budgets and lifestyles.
What Are the Different Clear Aligner Systems?
Aligners are a great way to achieve a straighter, more beautiful smile without committing to metal braces. There are several clear aligner systems available in the market. Here are the five most commonly available systems for people seeking orthodontic treatment.
Invisalign is an innovative, clear aligner system that fits snugly over the teeth. These aligners are manufactured by Align Technology. They effectively and comfortably straighten teeth in a shorter time.
Invisalign can address the following dental issues:
- Crossbite
- Crowded teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Misaligned teeth
- Open bite
- Overbite
- Underbite
There are different types of Invisalign treatments designed to address the specific needs of patients. They are as follows:
- Invisalign Full:
This type of Invisalign treatment is designed to address moderate orthodontic problems such as crooked teeth and bite problems. The treatment lasts for 12-24 months, and there is no limit on the number of aligners provided during the treatment. This allows for a more comprehensive treatment plan to achieve optimal results. - Invisalign Lite:
Invisalign Lite is a more limited version of the Invisalign treatment, designed for minor orthodontic issues such as small gaps between teeth, slight overcrowding, and other minor alignment problems. It is not suitable for bite correction. The treatment usually lasts 6-8 months, and patients will receive 14 sets of clear, removable aligners. - Invisalign Express:
Invisalign Express is a targeted treatment option that uses clear, removable aligners to address specific teeth that have relapsed after previous orthodontic treatment. Unlike traditional braces, which move all teeth, Invisalign Express only moves the teeth that need it. It is a quick and convenient option that can last up to 3 months, with patients receiving up to 7 sets of aligners. - Invisalign Teen:
This Invisalign treatment is designed specifically for teenagers with mild to moderate orthodontic problems. These aligners have unique features tailored to the needs of teens, such as compliance indicators that help determine if the patient is wearing their trays as instructed and eruption tabs that make room for baby teeth or permanent teeth that are still erupting. Invisalign Teens also includes six replacement aligners if the patient loses or damages the trays. The treatment is usually for 6-18 months; the duration will depend on the severity of the case and the patient’s compliance. - Invisalign First:
Invisalign First is an orthodontic treatment designed for children aged 6-10. The treatment is designed to guide the growth and development of the child’s jaw and teeth to achieve proper alignment and bite. Invisalign First aligners are custom-made for each child and are fabricated to accommodate the teeth and jaw as they grow. The treatment usually lasts for 6-18 months, depending on the severity of the case and the child’s compliance.
Invisalign treatment uses a unique and patented thermoplastic aligner material known as SmartTrack®. This flexible material was specifically developed to provide the most comfortable and faster aligner treatment.
An alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign aligners provide a personalised orthodontic solution. They are designed to be worn for several weeks or months.
Invisalign’s ability to align all your teeth simultaneously, instead of one by one, makes it a faster option to achieve straighter, more beautiful teeth than traditional metal braces.
Clear Correct
ClearCorrect is an innovative clear aligner therapy method. It uses cutting-edge digital technologies to address a wide range of orthodontic problems, from mild misalignment to severe cases.
The aligners provide precision single-tooth movement. Crafted from polyurethane, it can withstand even the most complex tooth movements. Not only are they stain and crack-resistant, but each aligner is carefully inspected by an experienced dentist. This is done before being laser marked for traceability.
Before beginning treatment, patients must meet with a qualified ClearCorrect provider. It is not possible to purchase these aligners online. The process needs to be overseen in person at an established facility.
ClearCorrect provides six different treatment solutions. They address several orthodontic issues—ranging from the most minor to the most complex. These plans are as follows:
- Flex:
This plan is ideal for minor misalignment cases. It allows patients to purchase one aligner at a time and pay per aligner. - Mini:
This custom treatment plan is ideal for those with mild misalignment issues. It includes a total of 12 sets of aligner trays. - One:
This plan is designed for mild cases, with 24 sets of aligner trays included. - Two:
With this plan, you’ll receive 48 transparent aligners. These are used to address moderate alignment issues. It is double the usual number and twice as effective. - Three:
Designed with 72 total aligners, this plan is recommended for those with more moderate to severe orthodontic concerns. - Unlimited:
This plan is indicated for severe misalignment issues. Although it comes with a hefty price tag, you will receive as many aligners as necessary to achieve straight teeth. The treatment lasts for a maximum of five years. Plus, it comes with one set of retainers at no additional cost – making it an unbeatable value.
SmileStyler
SmileStyler is another brand of clear aligners that works just like Invisalign. It is one of the several aligner companies that manufactures custom-made, clear aligners for patients seeking orthodontic treatment.
SmileStyler is based in Australia. If you’re looking for a local clear aligner manufacturer that offers service and support with minimal delays, SmileStyler is the ideal option for you.
These clear aligners can help address mild to moderate cases of:
- Crooked teeth
- Improper bite
- Misalignment
- Overcrowding
- Protruding teeth
- Spacing
- Teeth gaps
Smile Direct Club
Smile Direct Club (SDC) are at-home clear aligners. They are also referred to as direct-to-consumer aligners. They are an affordable and convenient option to straighten teeth.
In contrast to Invisalign and metal braces, you won’t need frequent appointments with your dentist or orthodontist. Instead, you will simply take virtual or digital scans from home every few weeks. These will be used to track the progress of your teeth’ transformation.
SmileDirectClub is your go-to brand if you want a more affordable at-home aligner option. It’s been around since 2014 and provides remote teeth straightening services that cost up to 60% less than braces. They have registered dentists on board who will monitor each case’s progress every step of the way.
SmileDirectClub is only ideal for people with minor to moderate teeth misalignment issues. These include:
- Crowded teeth: Some teeth are crooked or overlapping.
- Diastema (gapped teeth): Small gaps between teeth.
- Minor to moderate bite issues
At-home clear aligners like SmileDirectClub’s are not very effective for severe teeth misalignment, including:
- Crossbites
- Open bites
- Overbites
- Underbites
For these treatment cases, braces and Invisalign aligners may be necessary, as well as other orthodontic devices.
Byte
Byte is a popular at-home aligner company. It is well-known for its cost-effectiveness and remarkably short treatment times. With an average of only 3 to 4 months, Byte’s treatment duration surpasses any leading aligner brand.
The secret behind Byte’s swift treatment is its innovative HyperByte device. It uses high-frequency vibrations to help accelerate the movement of teeth. According to Byte, using the HyperByte device for five minutes daily can help move the teeth faster. This one-of-a-kind tool is included in every single Byte treatment plan and promises speedy results.
Not only does Byte provide fast treatment and competitive pricing, but it is also widely renowned for its unparalleled customer support. Customers can contact the Byte team 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to get their queries answered promptly.
How Is Invisalign Different From These Aligner Systems?
Invisalign is a clear aligner system that is modernising the way it addresses crooked teeth. Invisalign provides several advantages over other aligners, enabling more effective and efficient treatments.
Invisalign uses state-of-the-art SmartTrack plastic material. This allows teeth to be moved in small steps, resulting in better control of the overall treatment outcome.
In addition, Invisalign utilises innovative Invisalign Outcome Simulator technology. This helps predict potential outcomes before beginning the treatment process. This also allows for quick and easy adjustments rather than having to go back and adjust your plan after starting.
In short, Invisalign’s key difference from other aligner systems is that it uses advanced materials and sophisticated technology to provide faster, more tailored treatments with optimal results.
How Does Invisalign Supervise Their Treatment?
Invisalign is a clear aligner system developed to straighten teeth without using traditional metal braces. Unlike other systems which rely solely on remote monitoring, Invisalign bridges the gap between digital and clinical evaluations by utilising both in full. By combining the strengths of each method and using them to monitor treatment progress, your dentists can better monitor your treatment and make adjustments to your treatment when necessary.
Furthermore, by conducting face-to-face assessments and digitally tracking each case, Invisalign offers an extra level of certainty, security, and accuracy compared to other clear aligner systems that only operate remotely.
Remote treatment and monitoring can provide information on a patient’s treatment progress. However, doing so from afar limits how reliable those readings are.
Taking advantage of digital tracking combined with more accurate face-to-face evaluations helps maximise the likelihood of treatment success for clear aligner therapy. This makes Invisalign stand out as a clear choice for orthodontic management.
How Much Is Invisalign Treatment?
Invisalign clear aligners have revolutionised how people straighten their teeth. But how much does the popular orthodontic treatment cost compared to other systems?
Generally speaking, how much you’ll pay for Invisalign treatment depends on the following:
- How complex the dental problem is
- How long it takes to achieve the desired result
Invisalign tends to be more expensive than other types of aligner systems. The estimated cost for Invisalign treatment is between $6,000 and $9,000. SmileStyler ranges from $5,000-$7,500. Byte’s aligners cost an average of $4,100 to $5,100.
Most health funds will cover a portion of the cost of treatment. Check your health fund cover before getting Invisalign.
Many dentists feel that investing in Invisalign is worth the extra cost. This is due to its significantly higher comfort level, convenience, and ease of use. It is a practical way to straighten teeth with minimal hassle.
Most dental clinics offer discounts when Invisalign treatment is paid in full. They also provide flexible payment plans where you can make monthly payments. Your dentist can provide you with an accurate quote following your initial consultation
Why Should I Choose Invisalign Over Other Aligner Systems?
Invisalign is considered superior by many orthodontists compared to other clear aligner systems. Here are five reasons why you should choose Invisalign clear aligners over the others:
- They offer up to 50% faster treatment times.
- They require fewer dental office visits.
- Invisalign can customise treatment for your specific needs through its advanced technology.
- Invisalign is backed by decades of research, clinical studies, and trials, giving consumers peace of mind that they will be receiving results.
- They provide improved comfort due to their patented SmartTrack material which applies continuous force throughout treatment.
These qualities make Invisalign a better choice, which is why it is quickly becoming one of the most preferred clear aligner systems in the market.
Final Thoughts
Invisalign clear aligner systems have quickly become the leading orthodontic option for many teens and adult patients today. But what sets Invisalign apart from other clear aligner systems?
Invisalign offers increased comfort due to its smooth thermoplastic material. It can also provide controlled force to each tooth. Most of all, Invisalign has different types of treatment tailored to the specific needs of patients. Because of these, it is clear why Invisalign remains top of mind for clear aligner systems.
Some might wonder if Invisalign is better, but ultimately this depends on the patient’s needs and preferences. For example, some people may prefer the affordability of other clear aligner systems, while others may be attracted to Invisalign’s unique features and advanced technology. Regardless of the clear aligner system chosen, a visit to a dental professional should be in order.
Talk to one of the dentists on our team to determine which system suits your dream smile goals. Visit our website or call Maylands Dental Centre to book an orthodontic consultation today. We’ll be happy to help you achieve the smile of your dreams!
Frequently Asked questions
The time it takes for Invisalign to have a noticeable effect varies depending on how misaligned the teeth are. For more severe cases, the average treatment time may be between 12-18 months, sometimes even more. Less extensive cases could take as little as three to six months using Invisalign Express.
While exact times vary from patient to patient, Invisalign is designed with your convenience and optimal comfort in mind. This makes Invisalign an increasingly attractive choice over other methods.
No, you don’t talk differently with Invisalign. Because the aligners fit snugly over your teeth, you should experience no noticeable difference in your speech.
Additionally, people won’t be able to tell that you are wearing retainers unless they look closely at your mouth.
The speed of your teeth shifting with Invisalign depends on the complexity of your case. Generally, with your personalised treatment plan, you can expect to see results after about one month. The entire process may take anywhere from six months to a year or more, depending on what needs to be addressed.
Invisalign is designed to gradually move your teeth to their desired positions over time. You’ll need to wear your aligners for at least 20 hours per day. They should only be taken out when eating or drinking, brushing your teeth, or cleaning the Invisalign tray.
It’s also important to have regular check-ups with your dentist. They will be able to monitor your treatment progress and let you know when it’s time to move on to the next aligner set.
Yes, it’s important to clean your Invisalign aligners each time you take them out. Brush them with a soft toothbrush and warm water. This will:
- Help remove plaque buildup from the aligner
- Minimises the number of bacteria in the Invisalign tray
- Reduce the risk of tooth decay or gum disease
It’s also important to practice a good oral hygiene routine. Flossing daily can help prevent plaque buildup and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
In addition to cleaning your aligners regularly, avoid eating or drinking anything that could stain or discolour the plastic. This includes coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sodas.
It would help to avoid smoking while wearing Invisalign. Smoking can cause tray discolouration.
General Dentistry
Cosmetic Dentistry
Restorative Dentistry
Dental Implants
Orthodontics
Sleep Dentistry
Childrens Dentist
Cosmetic Procedures
Health Funds
Government Schemes
Payment Plan Options