Orthodontic issues like overbite, underbite, crowding, and more are incredibly common and require effective treatment for a straight smile and long-term oral health. However, braces and other traditional methods are widely seen as uncomfortable and inconvenient. Clear aligners provide a range of alternative options for many patients.

Clear Aligners Are in High Demand

Clear aligners have been around since the late ’90s but have recently skyrocketed in popularity. More orthodontists and orthodontic dentists are offering them than ever before, and increased acceptance of clear aligners by insurance companies is also making them more accessible.

The simple fact of the matter is that, when they’re available, patients prefer clear aligners. There are numerous advantages of clear aligners compared to traditional braces, and patients have taken notice.

Clear aligners are similar in some ways to clear braces, providing treatment while being hardly noticeable and helping maintain your self-confidence. They’re also more comfortable, easier to live with in terms of eating and oral hygiene, and can even accelerate your treatment.

It’s no wonder that so many patients are choosing clear aligners today. However, these patients must also choose between the various clear aligner options that are now available.

Invisalign

Invisalign is the original clear aligner, developed in 1997. It pioneered the convenient and comfortable treatment experience that so many patients enjoy today, but is it still the best option for everyone?

Invisalign isn’t just a single treatment option. There are several different types that address specific orthodontic issues and patients at different stages of development.

Invisalign Full provides treatment for moderate to severe alignment issues, with treatment lasting up to 18 months. On the other end of the spectrum is Invisalign Express,which helps with minor issues, and treatment takes just six months. Invisalign i7 and Invisalign Lite are intermediate options for certain situations and can be discussed more in depth with a dentist at Farless Dental Group in Greensboro, NC

ClearCorrect

ClearCorrect is another type of clear aligner that many of our patients ask about. ClearCorrect was first available in 2006, developed by a dentist who had trouble finding enough clear aligners for the many patients he treated.

ClearCorrect treatment is similar to Invisalign because they work on the same clear aligner principles. ClearCorrect also has various treatment plans that can address a variety of issues. There are also treatment options for minor issues that may only require three months, which is particularly useful for revisions and relapses.

With ClearCorrect, patients have access to various payment plans. Some feature access to unlimited trays over a certain period of time rather than the set number of trays that Invisalign offers. This benefit can give patients a bit more flexibility if treatment doesn’t go quite as planned and needs to be adjusted.

SureSmile

SureSmile originally made specialized braces, including behind-the-teeth braces that provided a more inconspicuous option compared to regular braces. However, in 2007, they shifted toward an even better alternative—clear aligners.

Today, they provide clear aligners and clear retainers, along with a range of other cosmetic dentistry options like at-home whitening kits. Their clear aligners are similar to those offered by Invisalign and ClearCorrect.

SureSmile can provide treatment plans for a wide range of issues as well. Patients can make use of both set treatment times and unlimited comprehensive options for more complex issues. A pay-as-you-go option also lets patients pay for individual aligners, which may be a good option in minor cases.

Which Is Right for You?

Each of these three types of clear aligners can provide great results for various dental issues, including malocclusions, bad bite issues, and misalignments. So how can you tell which one is right for you?

For many patients, pricing is a primary area of concern with clear aligners. These three options are all comparable in their overall costs. Because each clear aligner provider has unique plans and options, any one of them can be the most affordable option depending on the situation.

To find out what your options are, please contact an orthodontic dentist at Farless Dental Group in Greensboro, NC. The first step is determining the best treatment plan for your individual needs, which may or may not include clear aligners.

If clear aligners are your best option, Dr. Farless can determine which options are suitable for your specific case. From there, you can discuss costs and insurance to find out which best suits your budget.

Clear Aligners in Greensboro, NC

While many orthodontic dentists only provide one option, Farless Dental Group offers treatment with Invisalign, ClearCorrect, and SureSmile. We can ensure that you get the best option for your unique needs. You can contact our office today to schedule a consultation and to find out more about your clear aligner options.