Nearly invisible orthodontic treatment has become the new choice for teens hoping to navigate the high school years unburdened by the social cost of metal braces, as well as for adults who put off correcting misaligned teeth or experience drifting of teeth years after straightening. Below, trusted San Diego dentist Dr. Jennifer Santoro compares the two industry-leading clear plastic aligners, Invisalign® and ClearCorrect®.
Goals in Alignment
Both Invisalign and ClearCorrect are designed to gradually move crooked teeth into place, with a series of computer-crafted plastic mouth inserts known as aligners. The aligners are hard to notice and easy to forget, and can be removed quickly for eating and social occasions.
For many patients who select this convenient option, Invisalign is the preferred choice. ClearCorrect advertises fewer lab fees and lower costs for revisions and replacements, but we have found they are using dated materials and software, so dentists such as Dr. Santoro generally prefer using Invisalign. Originally Clear Correct was known to be more comfortable because the plastic was thinner, but Invisalign has since improved their plastic molding and there is no longer a difference in comfort.
Due to Invisalign’s new software and protocol, aligners can be changed as frequently as each week. Because of this difference, Invisalign will achieve your goals more quickly.
Invisalign Options
Invisalign also has the advantage of several customized options. Invisalign Full treats complex bite cases with a product that is worn on the top and bottom teeth. Invisalign Lite is appropriate when less tooth movement is necessary to attain the final straightening. Invisalign i7 is able to target one tooth or a small number of teeth that stand out in an otherwise orderly mouth. Invisalign Teen is perfect for a mouth that is still developing in the adolescent years.
Invisalign Express or Invisalign Go are faster, less costly options for patients with minor crowding or spacing issues. They are often ideal choices for individuals who had orthodontic correction in the past, but experienced a change in position of the teeth over time, usually as a result of not wearing a post-treatment retainer for the prescribed duration. Invisalign Express involves the use of approximately 10 aligners, and Invisalign Go can address a patient’s needs in under 20 trays.
Invisalign with mandibular advancement, the newest innovation, aims to improve overbite while straightening teeth.
When choosing clear orthodontic therapy, you will enjoy the many advantages over the traditional metal braces, including better comfort, greater freedom, and less time receiving adjustments at the dentist’s office.
To schedule your appointment, or to learn more about clear orthodontic aligners, call Dr. Santoro at (858) 566-8510, or email Village Center Dentistry in Scripps Ranch today.
