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

Invisalign is a premium brand. This innovative system utilizes a series of personalized, transparent aligners designed to gently guide teeth into their optimal positions over time. Meanwhile, ‘clear aligners’ is a generic term referring to any orthodontic device made of transparent plastic designed for teeth straightening. These can come from various manufacturers and won’t necessarily follow the specific protocols employed by Invisalign.

Invisalign treatment may occasionally require small attachments (buttons) on the teeth for additional support. Patients receive regular monitoring through the Invisalign app, enabling progress tracking and virtual check-ins. In-person appointments may be necessary for periodic adjustments.

Clear aligners typically do not require attachments, relying solely on the fit of the aligners for tooth alignment. Monitoring and adjustments can vary depending on the manufacturer and the patient’s treatment plan, typically involving regular in-person visits.

While both Invisalign and other clear aligners work to correct dental issues over time, the duration of treatment may vary. Other clear aligner brands can sometimes offer faster treatment times, depending on the individual’s specific dental needs.

Generally, the treatment period with clear aligners or Invisalign can range from 10 to 24 months and 12 to 18 months respectively. This is due to the gentle forces exerted by these aligners on the teeth, leading to a more gradual alignment process.

Invisalign Treatment Time:
• Mild cases: 6-12 months
• Moderate cases: 12-18 months
• Severe cases: 18-24 months or longer

Keep in mind that the duration may vary based on the complexity of the case and the patient’s adherence to wearing the aligners as directed.

Clear Aligners Treatment Time:
• Mild cases: 9-15 months
• Moderate cases: 15-24 months
• Severe cases: 24-36 months or longer

Factors Influencing Treatment Duration:
• Severity of Misalignment: More severe cases require a longer treatment time to achieve optimal results.
• Bone Density: Patients with denser bone structures may require longer treatment periods.
• Compliance: Regular wear of aligners for the prescribed number of hours per day is essential for timely results.
• Age: Younger patients tend to have more adaptive bone structures, which may shorten treatment time.
• Treatment Plan: The specific treatment plan can impact the overall duration.

At Marvel Dental, patients are advised to remove aligners only for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene, wearing them at all other times to ensure the treatment stays on track. Regular check-ups are also essential to monitor progress and make any required modifications to the treatment plan.

We understand that comfort is a vital factor in any orthodontic treatment. We consider the following when recommending either Invisalign or Clear aligners:

• Individual sensitivity: Everyone’s experience with orthodontic appliances can vary, and we cater to individual needs.

• Periodontal health: Patients with gum issues may find it more challenging to tolerate aligners.

• Tooth alignment: The severity of your dental issues can impact the force required to realign your teeth, affecting comfort levels.

• Tray material: Different plastics used in aligners can influence their flexibility and comfort.

There may be initial discomfort or pressure with both types of aligners. However, this is a normal part of the teeth-shifting process and usually subsides within a few days.

Ultimately, the decision between Invisalign and clear aligners comes down to personal preference and dental needs.

It’s essential to keep your aligners clean and free from bacteria to prevent oral health problems and make your treatment effective. Here is a guide on how to keep your aligners and Invisalign sparkling clean:

To start, make sure to remove your aligners before consuming any food or beverages other than water. After eating, be sure to brush and floss your teeth before reinserting your aligners. This practice helps prevent food particles from being trapped, reducing the risk of decay and potentially extending the duration of your treatment.

Always remember to wash your hands before handling your aligners. It’s also recommended to keep your aligners in a clean, dry case when not in use to protect them from damage and keep them clean. Keep your retainer case clean to avoid the accumulation of bacteria.

If you notice any issues with your aligners such as excessive staining, foul odors, gum irritation, redness, or swelling, do not hesitate to contact your dental provider.

The cost of Invisalign or clear aligners can vary, ranging from $3,000 to $9,000 approximately. The cost is influenced by the complexity and length of your treatment.

The cost is shaped by the intricacy and duration of your treatment:

• Lite Treatment: For minor alignment adjustments, this treatment typically costs between $3,000 and $5,000.

• Moderate Treatment: Addressing more complex alignment issues, this treatment’s cost can vary between $4,000 and $7,000..

• Comprehensive Treatment: This treatment is designed for severe alignment problems and can last up to three years, costing between $6,000 and $8,000.

Please note that the overall cost may also include a consultation fee, which can range from $50 to $200, and the cost of retainers to maintain alignment after completing the treatment, which typically costs around $500 to $1,000.

At Marvel Dental, we understand that orthodontic treatment can be a significant investment, which is why we’re pleased to accept many dental insurance plans that cover part of the cost for these treatments. Additionally, we offer payment plans and low-interest loans to make these treatments more accessible.

While Invisalign and clear aligners can be more expensive than traditional braces, the benefits, such as being nearly invisible and more comfortable, often outweigh the cost difference for our patients. We invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Anna Gazu, where she will evaluate the condition of your teeth, discuss your treatment objectives, and offer a customized estimate. Together, we can create a treatment plan that aligns with your budget and meets your orthodontic needs. Visit us to learn more or schedule your consultation today. We serve patients from Clifton NJ, Passaic NJ, Woodland Park NJ, Nutley NJ, Garfield NJ, Fairfield NJ, and BEYOND!