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 practically transparent when worn, making them less noticeable than metal braces.
Invisible braces are custom-made clear plastic trays that fit over your teeth. Each set of aligners applies gentle pressure to gradually shift your teeth into place over a period of months. Unlike metal braces, invisible braces can be temporarily removed for eating, brushing, and flossing.
Benefits of Invisible Braces
Some key advantages of clear aligners include:
- More discreet appearance
- Removable for meals and cleaning
- Won't cause cuts inside the mouth
- Shorter treatment times
- Clear braces may have higher initial costs but require fewer in-office visits and adjustments
How Do Invisible Braces Work?
Invisible aligners work similarly to metal braces in that they use steady gentle force to straighten teeth over time. However, the process differs in a few key ways:
- You receive an entire set of custom aligners upfront mapped to move your teeth in small increments.
- You switch to the next aligner in the series every 1-2 weeks as your teeth adjust.
- Most people wear clear braces for 6-18 months before achieving the desired position.
- Some brands recommend wearing aligners for 22 hours per day, only removing them for eating and oral care.
Who Are Clear Aligners For?
Invisible braces can work for minor to moderate alignment issues such as spaced teeth, crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. They may not be as effective as traditional braces for more complex cases.
Aligners are also not recommended for children under 10 years since teeth are still developing. Teens and adults make the best candidates.
Factors To Compare Invisible Braces Brands
With so many companies now offering clear aligner therapy, deciding the best invisible braces brand for your needs and budget takes research.
Here are some key considerations when comparing providers:
Treatment Plan and Monitoring
Does the company provide professional oversight from orthodontists? Can you communicate with them for questions?
It's important to have expert guidance in case unexpected issues arise during treatment.
Customization
Are the aligners tailored to your mouth based on your exact tooth imprints? Do they utilize smart tracking technology to optimize fit?
Properly customized braces move teeth more accurately and comfortably.
Materials and Durability
What type of plastic is used? How prone to cracks and breaks?
You'll want aligner trays that retain their integrity over months of wear and pressure on teeth.
Treatment Length and Changes
How frequently do you change to new aligners? Does the full treatment plan take less or more than a year for most people?
The longer your teeth are under adjust pressure, the faster you'll meet alignment goals.
Cost and Payment
What financing plans are available if needed? Do they offer discounts or rebates for payment in full?
The overall cost can really vary across brands, so be sure to understand the complete pricing breakdown.
Best Affordable Clear Aligners Brands Reviews
Based on the above criteria, below are 5 top-rated invisible braces brands to consider among affordability options in 2023:
Byte
- Treatment overseen by orthodontists
- Aligners made from BPA-free, durable plastic
- Option to pay all at once or pay-as-you-go
- Average treatment time of 3-4 months
- Modern tracking features to perfect fit
- One of the most affordable and fast options
Candid Co.
- Works with dental and orthodontia specialists
- Made with durable medical-grade thermoplastic
- Unique payment plans available based on treatment
- Typical plans range 9-12 months
- Offers implant scans for extremely accurate alignments
- Mid-range pricing affordable with financing options
SmileLove
- Teledentistry consultations with orthodontists
- Aligners produced using eco-friendly nylon plastic
- Take monthly photos for adjustments if needed
- Average 4-6 month correction time
- Great budget rates for a fully customized plan
- One of the lowest prices for complete service
AlignerCo
- Board-certified orthodontists guide treatment
- Strong medical-grade plastic trays
- Option to pay some upfront and rest over 6 months
- Typical treatment spans 6-9 months
- 3D modeling software for accuracy
- Low monthly payment options under $100
NewSmile
- Licensed dentists and orthodontists
- Custom-built smooth plastic with optimal durability
- Multiple flexible payment options over 2 years
- Average treatment just 4-7 months
- Advanced 3D modeling and video support
- Most affordable prices but still high-quality
Are Cheap Invisible Braces Too Good To Be True?
While more complex cases require in-office care with an orthodontist, clear aligners can offer big savings when professionally handled. There are excellent budget options under $2,000 when comparing best invisible braces.
The technology and remote access to experts make direct-to-consumer teeth straightening achievable, all without sacrificing personalization or oversight.
Just be sure to research patient reviews and before and after photos when finding the best affordable invisible braces. Reputable brands offer innovative treatment with orthodontist monitoring at prices averaging $1,500 or less.
FAQs
What's the difference between clear aligners and traditional braces?
Clear aligners like Invisalign are made of smooth plastic that are less abrasive and more discrete. They also don't use metal brackets and wires. However, invisible braces may not handle more complex cases as effectively.
How long do I wear invisible braces daily?
Exact guidelines vary by brand, but most recommend wearing clear aligner trays for 20 to 22 hours per day, only removing to eat, drink, and brush your teeth.
How old should you be to get invisible braces?
Invisible braces can be worn by teenagers as well as adults since the aligners tend to be more discrete. However, clear braces require mature compliance with wear guidelines, so they are generally not recommended for children under age 10.
What results can you achieve with clear aligners?
If you have minor or moderate alignment issues, invisible braces can effectively straighten teeth to treat gaps, overlapping, crowding, underbites, crossbites and more. More complex cases may require traditional braces or a combination approach.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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