Difference Between Invisalign and Similar Aligners?

Question

My orthodontist told me that he does not do Invisalign aligners, but that he does a type of aligners that is very similar to Invisalign. Can you tell me what the difference is and if there are any types of special questions I should ask?

Kathryn Amanda Wilson, DDS · Answer

Depending on the complexity of your case, there is a myriad of options out there for you besides the "Big 2" you mentioned. I urge you to also consider: SmileCareClub, MTM...etcThese options may also be at a significant cost reduction to your wallet.As always, start with your General Dentist to obtain a full check-up and periodontal exam and make sure your bite, gums and teeth are healthy for orthodontic treatment.RealSelf has many postings from patients of all aligner systems and can give doctor referrals.Best of luck with your new smile!

Tom Hedge, DDS · Answer

Both achieve the same results in the end.  I have done both over 20 years.  I use ClearCorrect exclusively now because the fee is lower and I can pass the savings on to the patient.  Great results.

Kiyan Mehdizadeh, DMD · Answer

There seems to be some misapprehension among doctors about the difference between Invisalign, ClearCorrect, and other aligners, and they are passing this misapprehension on to patients.I am a provider of both Invisalign and ClearCorrect. They are both the same technology - 3-dimensionally printed sequence of aligners that straighten your teeth when changed every 2-3 weeks. The differences lie in the marketing each company does, the lab fees they charge, and customer support they provide doctors. Depending on how each doctor has experienced these factors, you will receive a certain biased opinion from them regarding Invisalign or ClearCorrect. In reality, it's people arguing the difference between a Chevrolet and a Ford. That being said, what really determines the success of treatment is how competent the doctor is in achieving your desired outcome, not what brand the plastic is. If you don't know hot to drive, it really doesn't matter whether your car is a Chevy or a Ford. You should ask how the doctor plans to achieve your desired outcome.

Richard Shin, DDS, MS · Answer

Invisalign and ClearCorrect both use similar techniques to move the teeth.

	 

	The only difference is that they use different technology to achieve the movements.

	Ask your doctor if he/she uses the latest in scanning technology called Itero scan instead of the traditional impressions for Invisalign. This is a new scanning technology that bypasses the dreaded dental impression for the fabrication of the aligners that is only available at the moment with Invisalign.

	 

	Good luck!

Gabriela Hricko, DDS · Answer

The Invisalign system has been around for over 12 years and they have the most research as well as product development than any of their competitors.
Depending on what system is used, Invisalign or Clear Correct, the difference can be in the computer software and technology of the products as well as the pricing.
Other systems, such as Red, White and Blue, or Simpli-5, move the teeth on the actual model (vs. a computer simulation).
All of these products can work well when used in the hands of a properly trained professional with experience and the proper case selection. If your case involves more than minor tooth movement, I would recommend Invisalign.

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD - Account Suspended · Answer

When Align started, they were the only company out there.  It was not a new concept, but a much more "High Tech" version than before.  Other companies started, including Clear Correct, that are very similar.  Another company, Bioliners, is similar.  This usually means a savings to the dentist and passed on to the consumer.
All methods work, some more efficient, some more comfortably, etc.  If your orthodontist has experience with the Align alternative and has had success, I would not hesitate to use them.  It comes down to  trust, and if you feel you are in good hands, you likely are.

Difference Between Invisalign and Similar Aligners?

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