Clear Aligners vs. Invisalign: What's the Difference?

Want to straighten your teeth but don’t know if you should choose Invisalign or another brand of clear aligners? This article is for you!

Though Invisalign is a type of clear aligner, it can differ a lot from other brands on the market. Keep reading to learn if Invisalign is worth it, or if you should look for other types of clear aligners.

Invisalign Is the Original Clear Aligner

The first clear aligner to hit the market was actually Invisalign. Even today, it’s considered a revolutionary treatment as it can effectively address several types of alignment and bite issues more discreetly and comfortably.

Invisalign aligners are made from a special clear plastic that is more comfortable than braces, yet still puts enough pressure on the teeth to move them.

The Differences Between Invisalign and Other Clear Aligners

Though the stages of clear aligner therapy are similar, there are some unique advantages to Invisalign:

1. SmartTrack Plastic

Invisalign uses a special type of clear plastic called SmartTrack. This material allows the teeth to move in stages and at a slightly lower rate so that the treatment can control the exact “steps” your teeth need to take.

2. Outcome Simulator

Invisalign patients can see what their smile may look like at the end of the treatment. Of course, the results from the simulator can vary slightly from real life, but this simulation gives patients and dentists a very good idea of what results to expect.

3. Misalignment severity

Since Invisalign has been around longer, it has also been able to improve its technology greatly over the years to make treatment more effective.

For example, first Invisalign trays were only able to treat minor to mild cases of misalignment, since the trays could not put enough pressure on teeth that were severely misaligned.

But today, Invisalign attachments can help patients with more complex tooth alignment issues and even bite problems (like overbites or underbites) get this type of treatment.

4. Peace of mind

Invisalign has countless clinical studies and scientific evidence to back up its claims. Newer clear aligners cannot say the same.

With Invisalign clear aligner, you especially know what to expect, since the technology has been studied, used, and improved since it first launched in 1997. 

Not only are dentists more familiar with this type of aligner, but patients may feel more relaxed to opt for a clear aligner with a lot more proof to back up its claims.

Ready For Your Invisalign Consultation? Contact Primavera Dental Group

If you want to know if Invisalign is the right clear aligner for you, meet with a dentist near you for a short consultation to find out!

To get started, schedule a consultation at Primavera Dental Group.

Want to learn more about Invisalign treatment? Then call our office at (512) 640-8175 today for a short chat!