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What Are Invisible Braces?

Invisible braces, also known as clear aligners, are an alternative to traditional metal braces for straightening teeth. As the name suggests, invisible braces are clear, plastic molds that fit over your teeth to gently move them into proper alignment. Unlike metal braces, invisible braces are removable and less noticeable in your mouth.

Some of the top brands for invisible braces include Invisalign, ClearCorrect, SmileDirectClub, Candid, and AlignerCo. These clear aligner companies use 3D scanning technology to create a series of custom-fit aligners that incrementally move your teeth over time. Each set of aligners is worn for 1-2 weeks before switching to the next set in the series, slowly shifting your teeth until you reach your desired smile.

Benefits of Invisible Braces

There are many advantages to choosing invisible braces over traditional metal braces:

• Less noticeable - Clear aligners are practically invisible, making them a discreet teeth straightening option.
• Removable - Invisible braces can be taken out for eating, brushing, and flossing.
• Comfortable - Clear aligners are thin and smooth without any metal brackets or wires that could irritate your mouth.
• Shorter treatment times - Some people can achieve results in as little as 6 months with invisible braces.
• Less in-office visits - After the initial scan, check-ins are typically only needed every 4-8 weeks.
• Better oral hygiene - The removable nature makes it easier to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly.
• No dietary restrictions - You can eat whatever you want with invisible braces unlike traditional braces.
• Improved speech - No wires means clearer speech without a lisp.

How Do Invisible Braces Work?

Invisible braces straighten your teeth through a series of customized clear aligners that are changed out every couple of weeks. Here is an overview of how the process works:

1. Consultation and scan - You'll have an initial exam to determine if you're a good candidate followed by a 3D scan of your teeth.
2. Aligner manufacturing - Using the 3D scan, a series of BPA-free, custom-fit clear aligner molds are made specifically for your teeth.
3. Alignment schedule - You'll be given your full set of aligners to use over the course of treatment, ranging from 6-24 months depending on your case.
4. Wear aligners - You'll wear each set of aligners for 1-2 weeks, for 20-22 hours per day, only removing them to eat and brush your teeth.
5. Change aligners - Approximately every 2 weeks you'll switch to the next aligner in the series, moving your teeth incrementally with each set.
6. Regular check-ins - You'll need to return to your orthodontist every 4-8 weeks to monitor your progress and fit you with more aligners.
7. Achieve desired smile - After completing your series of aligners over several months, you'll have successfully straightened your teeth!

Types of Invisible Braces

There are a few main types of clear aligner systems available for invisible braces treatment:

Invisalign

The most well-known brand, Invisalign uses SmartTrack material that is effective for complex cases. Treatment planning and aligners are done by orthodontists and dentists.

ClearCorrect

ClearCorrect aligners are made from medical-grade polymer and crafted using advanced digital technology. Treatment is monitored by dentists and orthodontists.

SmileDirectClub

SmileDirectClub sends aligners and treatment monitoring directly to patients with remote licensed orthodontists overseeing the process. More affordable but not ideal for severe misalignment.

Candid

The Candid system is supervised remotely by orthodontists but aligners are shipped directly to you. One of the most affordable "at-home" clear aligner options.

AlignerCo

AlignerCo offers customized treatment planning by orthodontists with aligners shipped directly to your door. Provides comprehensive teeth whitening kit too.

Are Invisible Braces Right for You?

Invisible braces can be a great alternative to traditional braces for many adults and teens. Here are some factors to consider when deciding if clear aligners are the right choice for your smile goals:

Your Alignment Issues

Invisible braces work best for mild to moderate alignment issues such as:

• Gapped teeth
• Crooked or crowded teeth
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crossbite

They are usually not recommended for more complex cases, such as:

• Severe overbite/underbite
• Major spacing or crowding issues
• Rotated teeth
• Jaw alignment problems
• Open bites

Be sure to get an orthodontic evaluation to determine if invisible braces can correctly address your alignment needs.

Your Lifestyle

Your habits and lifestyle preferences can also impact whether invisible braces are ideal for you. Clear aligners require responsibility for proper care and wear. You'll need to:

• Be able to keep track of multiple aligner sets
• Wear aligners for 20-22 hours per day
• Remove aligners for eating and brushing
• Keep aligners clean - brushing, rinsing after meals
• Avoid tooth-staining foods and drinks while wearing aligners
• Not lose or damage aligners
• Attend all required check-up appointments

If you have concerns about losing aligners or being diligent with aligner wear, traditional braces may be a better fit for your habits.

Your Budget

Cost is also a key factor in choosing between braces and invisible aligners. Here's an overview:

• Traditional metal braces - $3,000-$7,000
• Ceramic braces - $4,000-$8,000
• Lingual braces - $8,000-$10,000
• Invisalign - $4,000-$9,000
• ClearCorrect - $3,500-$4,500
• SmileDirectClub - $1,850-$2,910
• Candid - $2,400
• AlignerCo - $1,895

Check with your dental insurance, as some providers may cover a portion of orthodontic treatment. Invisible aligners are a pricier initial investment but may save money over time with fewer office visits and no replacement brackets/wires.

Top 5 Invisible Braces for Adults

If you've weighed the considerations and decided invisible braces align with your needs, here are the top clear aligner systems to consider:

1. Invisalign

As the first clear aligner brand, Invisalign is the most recognized name in invisible braces. They offer the SmartTrack material and SmartForce features for predictable movements and progress tracking. With over 6 million patients, Invisalign is the most experienced aligner provider. Treatment planning and monitoring is done in-office by orthodontists and dentists for more accurate care. While it is one of the more expensive options, Invisalign is proven effective for various cases from simple to complex.

2. SmileDirectClub

For an affordable at-home aligner option, SmileDirectClub is a top choice. They provide custom clear aligner therapy prescribed remotely by licensed doctors. Aligners and supplies are shipped directly to your door after taking dental impressions at home or a SmileShop retail location. On average, treatment is about 6 months with new aligners sent every 2 weeks. Monitoring is done through SmileCheck video chat or by sending in dental progress photos. At $1,950 for a full case, SmileDirectClub offers a budget-friendly alternative to achieve a straighter smile.

3. Candid

The Candid clear aligner system provides discreet, customized orthodontic treatment while still being overseen by an orthodontist. Your doctor creates and monitors your treatment plan remotely while aligners are shipped to your home. With hyper-accuratealigners and low hardware profiles for comfort, Candid straightens teeth twice as fast as other brands with typical treatment lasting just 6 months. Priced at $2,400 all-inclusive, Candid is one of the most affordable doctor-directed invisible braces options.

4. AlignerCo

AlignerCo crafts premium custom aligners backed by orthodontists' oversight to gently straighten teeth. Their aligners are made with the most advanced medical-grade polymers for optimal comfort. In addition to aligners, AlignerCo includes premium teeth whitening and oral care products for a brighter smile. Treatment time averages only 4-8 months. At $1,895 for comprehensive treatment, AlignerCo provides end-to-end teeth straightening at an affordable price point.

5. ClearCorrect

ClearCorrect is one of the leading aligner brands backed by orthodontic professionals. Using advanced digital technology, they create custom-fit aligners from medical-grade polymer. Aligners are more translucent and comfortable than earlier clear braces options. Most cases are completed in 10 months or less. ClearCorrect costs a bit less than Invisalign at around $3,500. With seasoned orthodontists involved in the treatment planning, ClearCorrect offers precision care and alignments.

What Results Can You Expect From Invisible Braces?

Wondering what kind of transformations are possible with clear aligners? Here are some of the results you can expect:

• Straighter teeth - Aligners can correct crooked, gapped and crowded teeth into proper alignment.
• Corrected bites - Clear braces can improve overbites, underbites, crossbites and open bites.
• No more tooth crowding - Aligners make more room in your smile by expanding arches.
• Narrower smile - An overly gummy smile can be shaped and re-proportioned.
• Confident smile - Corrected teeth helps you smile bigger and brighter!

In just 4-12 months, invisible braces can take your smile from crooked to confident. With consistent aligner use and check-ins, you'll start seeing a difference in your smile in as little as 6 weeks. However, every case is different - discuss your specific goals and projected results with your orthodontist when starting clear braces.

Before and After Transformation

To see the dramatic improvements possible in just months with clear aligners, check out this before and after of an Invisalign patient:

• Upper teeth tilted inward
• Lower teeth crowded
• Deep overbite
• Recessed chin
• Uneven smile line

• Upper teeth properly aligned
• Lower crowding resolved
• Overbite corrected
• Chin brought forward for better profile
• Straightened smile line

As you can see, invisible braces can successfully improve various imperfections for a dramatic smile makeover.

How to Choose the Best Invisible Braces

With so many excellent clear aligner brands available, how do you determine which is best for your needs? Follow this criteria when selecting invisible braces:

Treatment Complexity

Factor in the type of alignment issues you're looking to correct. For mild crowding or small gaps, direct-to-consumer aligners may suffice. Moderate cases benefit from orthodontist-planned treatment. Severe issues require in-office care.

Accuracy

Look for precise 3D modeling and alignment technology to ensure proper fit and incremental movement. Custom-made is better than one-size-fits-all aligners.

Monitoring

In-office orthodontic care provides the most attentive monitoring. Remote orthodontic oversight is the next best option. Direct-to-consumer options have the least adjustments during treatment.

Materials

Medical-grade polymers like BPA-free plastic and anti-microbial laminate provide the most comfortable, hygienic aligners.

Cost

Compare total treatment cost. In-office care will be the priciest while direct aligners are most affordable. However, you get what you pay for - clinical care delivers the best results.

Treatment Time

Faster options like Candid can straighten teeth in just 6 months. However, the timeline depends on your specific case - complex cases require longer care. Ask your orthodontist for their recommend treatment length.

Aesthetics

Virtually invisible aligners prevent numerous social impacts. Evaluate aligner transparency and fit. Also consider if teeth whitening or reshaping is included.

Reputation

Choose an established brand with many years successfully treating patients. Look for excellent customer reviews validating their experience.

Perks

Added benefits like complimentary whitening or retainers may sway your decision. Don't forget to factor retainers into the total cost.

Pros and Cons of Invisible Braces

Ready to move forward with clear aligners? First, let's recap the key advantages and disadvantages of invisible braces.

Pros

• Discreet appearance - Clear and removable without visible wires/brackets.
• Comfort - Smooth plastic with no abrasion on cheeks.
• Easy hygiene - Removes for eating and brushing.
• Short treatment time - Some cases finish in just 6 months.
• Fewer office visits - Check-ins only every 4-8 weeks.
• Easy speech - No impairment in speech from hardware.
• Confidence boost - Improved smile fosters self-esteem.

Cons

• Higher initial cost - More expensive upfront than metal braces.
• Strict wear regimen - Aligners must be worn 20-22 hours per day.
• Easily lost - Removing aligners increases likelihood of losing them.
• Limitations in correcting severely misaligned teeth - Not ideal for complex cases.
• Requires discipline - Success depends on diligent wear and care.
• May require bonding or attachments - Some cases need attachments for certain teeth.
• Results require retention - May need to wear retainers at night.

Weigh the pros and cons against your specific needs to decide if invisible braces are the right fit for you.

Are Invisible Braces Right for You? Next Steps

Hopefully this guide has helped you gain a strong understanding of invisible braces options. Here's how to take the next steps if you think clear aligners may be right for achieving your perfect smile:

1. Schedule a consultation

   FAQs

   How long does invisible braces treatment take?

   Treatment time with clear aligners averages 6-15 months but can vary based on the severity of your case. Mild to moderate issues can be resolved in 6-12 months. More complex cases require 12-15 months of aligners. Discuss your specific treatment length with an orthodontist.

   Can invisible braces fix severe misalignment?

   Invisible aligners work best for minor to moderate alignment problems. Severe issues like seriously crooked teeth or overbites/underbites may require traditional braces or a combination of clear aligners plus braces for the best outcome.

   What are the downsides to invisible braces?

   Potential disadvantages include higher upfront costs, the need for discipline to keep aligners in 22 hours a day, easier to lose than fixed braces, limitations in types of movements, and the possibility of some attachments. Clear aligners may also not be as effective as braces for complex cases.

   What happens after invisible braces treatment?

   After your final set of aligners, you'll likely need to wear a retainer at night to maintain your straightened smile. Some providers include a complimentary retainer with treatment. Ongoing retention is important to prevent teeth from shifting back.

   Can I eat and drink with invisible aligners?

   You should remove clear aligners when eating and drinking anything other than cool water. Food and beverages can stain or damage aligners. When you take out aligners, be sure to brush and floss before putting them back in.