Over the years, technology has made it possible for orthodontic treatment to advance significantly. Gone are when people had to settle for metal braces to straighten their teeth. Now, thanks to technology, there are plenty of teeth straightening options you can use. However, the two most common options include Invisalign and clear Invisalign aligners from Allure Dental.
Despite being quite popular, people can’t still differentiate between Invisalign and Aligners. Here’s a quick guide that will help you learn the differences between the two. Let’s roll!
Definition
The first difference between Invisalign and aligners lies in the definition. Aligners are an orthodontic treatment that helps straighten teeth. They are a significant upgrade from the traditional metal braces that people have known over the years. On the other hand, Invisalign is a type of clear aligner.
You’ve probably heard people refer to aligners and Invisalign interchangeably. Despite this familiarity, the true definition of each does help distinguish between these two orthodontic treatments.
Comfort in the Mouth
When comparing the difference between aligners and Invisalign, we can’t fail to look at the comfort they provide. It’s no secret that both aligners and Invisalign are comfortable to use compared to traditional metal braces. However, Invisalign provides much better comfort in your mouth than aligners.
While Invisalign is a type of aligner, not all aligners are Invisalign. Some aligners will have wires and brackets requiring your orthodontist to fix the aligner to hold. This means that the functionality of each will differ, which is what determines your comfort.
It also means that you won’t have the freedom to remove your aligners as you please. On the other hand, Invisalign is removable, and this gives you the freedom to take them off whenever you want to brush your teeth or eat.
Invisalign is also customized to perfectly fit your mouth, making them as comfortable as possible.
Material
The superiority of aligners and Invisalign lies in their aesthetics, primarily influenced by the materials used to make them. Each of them is made using a different material, which helps provide the comfort you are looking for.
Both aligners and Invisalign use BPA-free plastic material. This plastic material is resistant to stains and cracks. It is also safe for everyone, including pregnant or nursing mothers. The materials are also environmentally friendly as one can recycle them. You can consult with the best dentist in Tucson to determine which one will best suit your needs. Also, Invisalign aligners are smooth and won’t irritate your gums or cheeks.
It is also easy to mold, especially during the initial stages of getting your Invisalign or aligners installed. So, both Invisalign and aligners take the lead in the material.
Durability
Another critical factor that differentiates both Invisalign and aligners is their durability. Invisalign treatment can last up to 18 months. Aligners, on the other hand, you will have to replace aligners after one to four weeks. The reason for this is that you can remove Invisalign, while some aligners are stuck to your teeth for a particular duration of time.
It means you will have to attend follow-up appointments at least every four weeks to check the progress of the aligners.
So, how do you determine what to choose between Invisalign and aligners?
Well, this decision depends on several factors like:
Your Orthodontic Needs
When choosing between the two, the first thing you have to consider is your orthodontic needs. If your teeth are excessively crooked, your dentist may recommend you go for aligners like clear braces. But, if your challenges aren’t that complex, then Invisalign might be your best bet, as Invisalign works well for mild or moderate alignment issues.
Oral Hygiene
We all have different oral hygiene routines. For some, their hygiene routine is precise and quite habitual compared to others. If you floss and brush your teeth regularly, then Invisalign would be the proper orthodontic treatment to choose.
Some aligners like clear braces will deter your oral hygiene, as you can’t brush or floss with them in your mouth.
Treatment Period
Another consideration you have to make is your treatment period. After all, you don’t want to spend years with braces in your mouth. With Invisalign, your treatment period can take 6to 18 months, while aligners can take slightly up to three years.
However, for your treatment to be effective, you will need to have your Invisalign and aligners on you each day to maximize the benefits fully.
So, if you choose between Invisalign and aligners, ensure that you consider the above factors. Also, ensure that you consult a doctor. Once you know what you need, it will be easier to decide.
