Do you want to straighten your teeth without the hassle of metal wires and brackets? If you’re an older teenager or adult, you may especially shy away from highly visible traditional metal braces. After all, your treatment will need to be worn everywhere—work, home, social events, dates, etc. It’s understandable to want something that’s not-so-noticeable.
Fortunately, orthodontic treatment has seen great advancements in the recent decade, and you can now align your smile with clear braces. Two popular and effective brands of discreet aligners are Invisalign and ClearCorrect. They’re both wonderful options, but how can you choose the right one for you? Read along to learn some key differences you should take into consideration when making your decision.
Affordability
For most people, finding affordable treatment is a priority. While orthodontic treatment can be costly, it’s important to keep in mind that you’re also paying for high-quality and comprehensive services.
There’s no set sticker price for Invisalign or ClearCorrect as it depends on your dentist and the severity of your condition. However, there are cost averages. Invisalign usually ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, while ClearCorrect often runs from $2,000 to $8,000. Out of the two, ClearCorrect is typically the less expensive option. It’s important to note that no matter which brand you go with, the pricing could end up falling outside of these ranges based on your specific condition and the recommended treatment plan.
Treatment Time
The average treatment time for Invisalign is 10-12 months, while ClearCorrect takes about 13.5 months. However, both companies offer different plans to treat anything from mild cases of crowding and spacing to severe misalignments that will take much longer.
For minor cases, Invisalign offers a shorter treatment plan called Invisalign Express, which uses 5 or 10 aligner sets rather than the usual 25 or more. ClearCorrect offers Limited 6, Limited 12, and a more flexible alternative appropriately named “Flex.” Their Flex plan allows you to pay per aligner, so you will only be paying for the specific ones needed to straighten your teeth. All in all, patients with minor cases can use one of these shorter treatment options from either company and pay much less than they’d expect.
Material
One distinguishing feature is the material and technology used to create each type of aligner. Invisalign uses a patented material called SmartTrack. The company claims it facilitates 50% faster treatment times, 75% more predictable movements, and increased comfort. Invisalign prints their aligners, customizing and trimming them to fit the gum line perfectly. They’re slightly thicker plastic than ClearCorrect, making them a bit more visible.
ClearCorrect, on the other hand, uses a slightly thinner material from a widely-trusted, reputable company called Zendura. For the fitting, ClearCorrect prints 3D models and manually cuts the aligners.
At the end of the day, both companies provide very similar services, products, and results, and the decision ultimately boils down to you. Ready to start your journey towards a straighter smile? Consult with your dentist to determine a treatment plan that’s best for you, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving your dream look.
Meet the Dentists
Dr. Norman and Adam Sommers are brothers who both joined the respected Sommers Family Dentistry following the footsteps of their father. They are both members of the American Dental Association and bring a combined 25 years of experience to their dental practice. Dr. Adam Sommers is specially trained in ClearCorrect braces, helping you maintain your image while discreetly aligning your teeth. If you’re ready to enhance your appearance and boost your oral health, contact us via our website or call (419) 668-3606.
