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If you’re looking for a discreet, yet effective, way to straighten your teeth and improve your smile, Invisalign (a popular clear aligner brand) is likely on your radar.
However, while Invisalign is a popular option, it’s not the only clear aligner product on the market and there are a number of alternatives worth exploring.
If you’re considering clear aligners but want to know the full lineup of available products before choosing, we’ve created this informative list of the best Invisalign alternatives in 2023 to help you with your decision.
What Is Invisalign?
Founded in 1997, Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that can straighten your teeth through a series of clear, plastic aligners. It’s a popular alternative to traditional metal braces because of its smooth, lightweight, thermoplastic material and virtually invisible trays that are worn over your teeth like a mouth guard with no brackets and wires that could cause irritation.
If you follow your treatment plan and wear your aligners for at least 20 hours each day, Invisalign can gradually move your teeth into their optimal positions. “On average, Invisalign treatment spans from five to 18 months, depending on the teeth’s severity and misalignment,” says Irina Vaiman Kessler, D.D.S, a cosmetic dentist at New York Family Dental Arts based in New York City. However, the company notes that in some cases, individuals can complete treatment in as little as six months. Traditional braces are usually worn from 20 to 24 months, on average.
According to Dr. Kessler, the average cost for Invisalign can be anywhere from $4,000 to $8,000. But the price you pay will depend on different factors including the complexity of your case and the treatment length. For more information on the brand, check out our Invisalign review.
5 Alternatives to Invisalign
Before you move forward with deciding on a clear aligner brand, you may want to explore the following options.
Key Benefits and Features of Invisible Braces and Teeth Aligners
“Clear aligners allow patients to correct their bites easily and quickly,” says Dr. Kessler. According to Dr. Kessler, the most noteworthy benefits of invisible braces and teeth aligners include:
- Appearance. Clear aligners allow you to improve your smile discreetly. Unlike traditional braces, there won’t be any obvious metal or wire in your mouth.
- Removable. You can remove your clear aligners to brush, floss, eat and drink. Just be sure to wear them for as long as your treatment plan requires or you may prolong your results.
- Versatile. Clear aligners have the potential to correct a variety of orthodontic issues, including crooked teeth, overbites and underbites.
Choosing the Right Invisalign Alternative For You
Consider these tips as you search for the ideal Invisalign alternative.
- Make sure a dentist or orthodontist is involved. “I strongly recommend that the consumer only use an aligner brand that is offered and supervised by a dentist or orthodontist. Many cases require attachments placed on the teeth or interproximal reduction (IPR), which creates small spaces in between teeth to allow them to move and accomplish the desired result. This can only be done by a dentist or orthodontist,” says Kenneth Magid, D.D.S., a dentist at Advanced Dentistry of Westchester in Harrison, New York.
- Understand the cost. Make sure you know exactly how much an alternative will cost you. Once you receive a quote or purchase a treatment plan, figure out what’s included and whether you have to pay upfront or if various payment plans are available.
- Consider treatment time. Ideally, look for an alternative that allows you to achieve your dream smile in a realistic amount of time, which may be equal to or shorter in length than Invisalign. Depending on your unique goals, this may be anywhere from a few months to a year or longer. Be weary of any company that promises lightning-fast results as there’s no shortcut to straight teeth.
While Invisalign is considered a pioneer in clear aligners, it’s not the only option. It’s a good idea to shop around and consider these alternatives so that you can zero in on the right product for your unique needs and preferences.
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