When it comes to orthodontic treatment, there are many options available to consumers. Two popular choices are Invisalign and SureSmile.
Both of these treatments offer clear aligners that are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating and brushing.
However, there are some differences between the two treatments that consumers should be aware of when making their decision.
Invisalign was founded in 1997 and has helped millions of people achieve straighter teeth. The aligners are made of a clear plastic material that is custom-fit to the patient’s teeth.
Treatment time can vary depending on the severity of the patient’s case, but most people can expect to wear the aligners for 12-18 months.
Invisalign can be used to treat a variety of orthodontic issues, including overbite, underbite, crossbite, crowded teeth, and gaps between teeth.
SureSmile is a newer treatment option that was launched in 2007.
Like Invisalign, the aligners are made of a clear plastic material and are custom-fit to the patient’s teeth. However, SureSmile uses advanced technology to create more precise aligners and reduce the need for refinements.
Treatment time can also vary, but many patients see results in as little as six months. SureSmile can be used to treat a variety of orthodontic issues, including overbite, underbite, crossbite, crowded teeth, and gaps between teeth.
Invisalign Overview
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign is a clear aligner system that uses a series of custom-made aligners to gradually shift teeth into the desired position.
The aligners are made of a smooth, clear plastic that is virtually invisible when worn. The treatment process begins with a consultation with an orthodontist or dentist who is trained in Invisalign.
They will take digital scans of the patient’s teeth and use 3D imaging technology to create a customized treatment plan.
The patient will receive a series of aligners, each one slightly different than the last, to be worn for about two weeks at a time.
The aligners apply gentle pressure to the teeth, gradually shifting them into the desired position.
Treatment time varies depending on the severity of the case, but most patients wear the aligners for 12 to 18 months.
Benefits of Invisalign
One of the main benefits of Invisalign is its discreet appearance.
The clear plastic aligners are virtually invisible when worn, making them a popular choice for adults and teenagers who are self-conscious about their appearance.
Invisalign aligners are also removable, which makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene during treatment.
Patients can remove the aligners to brush and floss their teeth, and they can also remove them while eating or drinking.
Drawbacks of Invisalign
One of the drawbacks of Invisalign is that it may not be suitable for all orthodontic cases.
Invisalign is designed to treat mild to moderate cases of crowding, spacing, and bite issues. In more severe cases, traditional braces may be a better option.
Invisalign aligners also require a high level of patient compliance. They must be worn for at least 22 hours a day to be effective, and patients must be diligent about switching out the aligners every two weeks.
Failure to comply with these guidelines can prolong treatment time and compromise results.
SureSmile Overview
How SureSmile Works
SureSmile is a brand of clear aligners that work similarly to Invisalign.
The treatment process involves visiting a licensed dental professional who will take impressions of the patient’s teeth and create a 3D model of the mouth.
The 3D model is used to create a series of custom-made aligners that are worn for a specific amount of time, usually around two weeks.
The aligners work by applying gentle pressure to the teeth to gradually move them into the desired position.
The patient will wear the aligners for at least 22 hours a day, only removing them to eat, brush, and floss.
As the teeth move, the aligners are replaced with new ones that are slightly different in shape to continue the process of shifting the teeth.
Advantages of SureSmile
One of the main advantages of SureSmile is that it can treat a variety of dental issues, including crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, misaligned bite, open bite, and overcrowding.
Additionally, SureSmile aligners are made from clear Essix Ace plastic, making them virtually invisible and more aesthetically pleasing than traditional braces.
Another advantage of SureSmile is that it is typically faster than traditional braces. Treatment times can vary, but many patients see results in as little as six months.
SureSmile also requires fewer office visits than traditional braces, making it a more convenient option for those with busy schedules.
Disadvantages of SureSmile
One of the main disadvantages of SureSmile is that it may not be suitable for all patients.
For example, patients with severe dental issues may require traditional braces or other orthodontic treatments.
Additionally, SureSmile aligners may not be as effective as traditional braces for certain types of tooth movement.
Another potential disadvantage of SureSmile is the cost.
While the cost of SureSmile aligners can vary depending on the patient’s specific needs and the dental professional providing the treatment, they can be more expensive than traditional braces.
However, it’s important to note that many dental insurance plans cover at least a portion of the cost of orthodontic treatments like SureSmile.
Key Differences
When it comes to clear aligners, Invisalign and SureSmile are two of the most popular options available.
While they share some similarities, there are also key differences between the two treatments that patients should be aware of.
One of the primary differences between Invisalign and SureSmile is the time they have been on the market.
Invisalign was founded in 1997 and has since helped improve over 15 million smiles worldwide.
SureSmile, on the other hand, didn’t start making aligners until 2007, although the company itself launched in 1998.
This means that Invisalign has had more time to perfect its technology and treatment process.
Another key difference is the way each treatment creates aligners.
Invisalign uses a process called 3D printing to create custom aligners for each patient.
SureSmile, on the other hand, uses a combination of 3D printing and robotics to create aligners that are more precise and efficient.
This means that SureSmile aligners may be able to achieve the desired results in a shorter amount of time than Invisalign aligners.
In terms of the types of malocclusions each treatment can correct, both Invisalign and SureSmile can treat a wide range of issues, including underbite, overbite, crossbite, crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, misaligned bite, open bite, and overcrowding.
However, SureSmile may be better suited for more complex cases due to its precision and efficiency.
Finally, cost is another important factor to consider when choosing between Invisalign and SureSmile.
While both treatments can be expensive, SureSmile may be more affordable for some patients due to its shorter treatment time.
It’s important to discuss the cost of each treatment with a dental professional to determine which option is best for your budget and needs.
Overall, both Invisalign and SureSmile are effective treatments for correcting malocclusions.
However, patients should consider the key differences between the two treatments when making a decision.
Factors such as treatment time, precision, and cost should all be taken into account.
Cost Comparison
When it comes to orthodontic treatment, cost is often a major factor in the decision-making process.
Invisalign and SureSmile are both clear aligner systems that offer an alternative to traditional metal braces, but how do their costs compare?
The cost of SureSmile treatment ranges from $3,000 to $6,000. The exact cost depends on the complexity of the case and the length of treatment, which can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months.
In comparison, Invisalign treatment typically costs between $3,000 and $7,000.
Like SureSmile, the final cost of Invisalign treatment depends on the complexity of the case and the length of treatment.
While the cost of Invisalign and SureSmile are similar, there are a few factors that may influence the final cost.
For example, some dental insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of treatment.
Additionally, some orthodontists may offer financing options to help make treatment more affordable.
It’s important to note that cost should not be the only factor to consider when choosing between Invisalign and SureSmile.
Other factors, such as the complexity of the case and the orthodontist’s experience with each system, should also be taken into account.
Effectiveness
When it comes to effectiveness, both Invisalign and SureSmile have been shown to be effective at straightening teeth.
Invisalign has been around for longer and has a larger market share, but SureSmile has been gaining popularity in recent years.
In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, researchers found that both Invisalign and SureSmile were effective at correcting mild to moderate crowding and spacing issues.
The study found that both treatments had similar success rates, with Invisalign having a success rate of 93.7% and SureSmile having a success rate of 93.1%.
One of the advantages of Invisalign is that it has been around for longer and has a larger market share.
This means that there is more research and data available on its effectiveness.
Invisalign has been shown to be effective at correcting a wide range of orthodontic issues, including crowding, spacing, crossbites, overbites, and underbites.
SureSmile, on the other hand, is a newer treatment option and there is less research available on its effectiveness.
However, early studies have shown that it is just as effective as Invisalign at correcting mild to moderate orthodontic issues.
Overall, both Invisalign and SureSmile are effective at straightening teeth.
The choice between the two treatments will depend on a variety of factors, including the severity of the orthodontic issues, the patient’s budget, and their personal preferences.
Comfort
When it comes to comfort, both Invisalign and SureSmile aligners are designed to be comfortable to wear.
Both treatments use clear, smooth plastic aligners that are custom-made to fit the patient’s teeth.
However, there are a few differences between the two treatments that may affect the patient’s comfort level.
One difference is that SureSmile aligners are laser cut and polished, with a contoured gum line for optimal comfort.
In contrast, Invisalign aligners may require additional trimming or adjustment to fit comfortably.
Additionally, SureSmile aligners are designed to work faster with fewer adjustments required than Invisalign aligners, which means that patients may experience less discomfort overall.
Another difference is that SureSmile aligners are made from a slightly thicker plastic material than Invisalign aligners.
While this may make SureSmile aligners feel slightly bulkier in the mouth, it also means that they may be more durable and less likely to crack or break.
Overall, both Invisalign and SureSmile aligners are designed to be comfortable to wear, and patients may experience different levels of comfort depending on their individual preferences and needs.
It is important for patients to discuss their comfort concerns with their orthodontist and choose a treatment that works best for them.
Treatment Duration
The treatment duration for Invisalign and SureSmile varies depending on the complexity of the case.
In general, SureSmile treatment takes approximately six months, while Invisalign treatment can be anywhere from 9 to 18 months. However, it can be longer for more complex cases.
Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to gradually move teeth into the desired position.
The aligners are typically changed every two weeks, and patients must wear them for 20 to 22 hours per day.
Treatment time can vary depending on the severity of the case, but most patients will see results within 12 to 18 months.
SureSmile uses customized wires and brackets to move teeth into the desired position.
The wires and brackets are designed using computer technology, which allows for more precise movement and faster treatment times.
Most patients will see results within six months, but more complex cases may take longer.
It’s important to note that treatment duration can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the case, patient compliance, and the skill of the orthodontist.
Patients should discuss their treatment options with their orthodontist to determine the best course of action for their individual needs.
Overall, both Invisalign and SureSmile offer faster treatment times than traditional braces, which can take up to two years or more.
Patients who are looking for a faster, more discreet way to straighten their teeth may want to consider Invisalign or SureSmile as an option.
Conclusion
Invisalign and SureSmile are both excellent options for those seeking clear aligner treatment.
While Invisalign is a more well-known brand, SureSmile offers some unique benefits.
SureSmile aligners are made with a special material that is more resistant to wear and tear, making them more durable than Invisalign aligners.
Additionally, SureSmile aligners are designed to move teeth more efficiently, which can lead to shorter treatment times.
However, Invisalign may be a better choice for those with more complex orthodontic issues.
Invisalign aligners can be customized to treat a wide range of orthodontic problems, including bite issues and more severe misalignments.
Ultimately, the choice between Invisalign and SureSmile will depend on individual needs and preferences.
It’s important to consult with a qualified orthodontist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
Regardless of which option is chosen, clear aligner treatment can be a highly effective way to achieve a straighter, healthier smile without the need for traditional metal braces.