If you’re interested in straightening your teeth without traditional metal braces, you may be considering clear aligner treatment. Two well-known options are Invisalign® and SureSmile® aligners. Both use a series of clear, removable trays designed to gradually move your teeth, but there are some differences in how each system approaches treatment.
So, which one is right for you? Understanding how Invisalign and SureSmile work can help you have a more informed conversation with your dentist about your options.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a clear aligner system that uses a series of custom-made, removable aligners to gradually move the teeth. Each aligner is designed to make specific adjustments, and patients typically progress through their series according to a treatment plan created by their dental provider.
One of the main advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. You can take them out for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, which allows you to maintain your normal oral hygiene routine more easily than with fixed braces.
Invisalign treatment uses digital technology to plan tooth movements. Your provider can use digital scans and treatment-planning software to map out the anticipated progression of your smile.
What Are SureSmile Aligners?
SureSmile is another clear aligner system designed to straighten teeth using a series of custom aligners. Like Invisalign, SureSmile aligners are removable and are designed to gradually align the teeth according to an individualized treatment plan.
SureSmile also uses digital treatment planning to help providers design a sequence of tooth movements. Depending on the treatment plan and the provider's approach, SureSmile may be used to address a variety of alignment concerns.
Because both systems are designed around customized treatment plans, your dentist will need to evaluate your teeth and bite to determine whether either option is appropriate for you.
Invisalign vs. SureSmile: How Do They Work?
The basic process for both systems is similar.
1. Your Dentist Evaluates Your Smile
Treatment starts with an examination of your teeth, gums, bite, and overall oral health. Your dentist may use digital scans, photographs, and X-rays when appropriate to develop a better understanding of your needs.
2. A Digital Treatment Plan Is Created
Your dental provider uses digital information about your teeth to develop a customized treatment plan. The plan determines how your teeth are expected to move throughout treatment.
3. Your Aligners Are Made
A series of clear aligners is created based on your treatment plan. Each aligner is designed to make gradual adjustments to the position of your teeth.
4. You Wear Your Aligners as Directed
You'll typically wear your aligners for most of the day, removing them for meals, beverages other than water, and your oral hygiene routine. Your provider will give you specific instructions about how long to wear each aligner and when to move to the next one.
5. Your Progress Is Monitored
You'll have periodic appointments with your dental provider to make sure your treatment is progressing as planned. Your treatment plan can be adjusted if necessary.
What Makes Invisalign Different?
Invisalign has been used for decades and has a large body of clinical experience behind the system. One of its best-known features is its SmartTrack® aligner material, which is designed specifically for Invisalign aligners.
Invisalign also offers different treatment options designed for different levels of orthodontic needs. Your provider can determine which Invisalign treatment approach is appropriate based on your particular case.
Another feature associated with Invisalign is the Invisalign™ Outcome Simulator, a digital tool that can allow patients to preview a simulation of potential tooth movements during a consultation. Keep in mind that a digital simulation is an estimate rather than a guarantee of a final result.
What Makes SureSmile Different?
SureSmile uses its own digital treatment-planning system and aligner materials to create customized treatment sequences. The system is designed to give dental professionals control over the planned movement of individual teeth throughout treatment.
One feature that can vary with SureSmile is the way providers approach treatment planning and monitoring. Because your dentist plays an important role in designing and overseeing your treatment, the experience can differ between practices.
SureSmile also offers different treatment options depending on the patient's needs, making a professional evaluation an important first step.
Which Clear Aligner Is Better?
There isn't a single clear aligner system that's best for every patient.
Both Invisalign and SureSmile can offer a more discreet alternative to traditional braces, and both require patients to wear their aligners consistently for treatment to progress as planned.
The most appropriate option depends on factors such as:
- The position of your teeth
- Your bite and jaw relationship
- The complexity of your alignment concerns
- Your oral health
- Your treatment goals
- Your provider's experience with the aligner system
- Your ability to wear and care for removable aligners consistently
In some cases, traditional braces or another orthodontic approach may be more appropriate than clear aligners.
What Should You Consider Before Choosing Your Orthodontics?
When comparing Invisalign and SureSmile, it can be tempting to focus solely on the brand name. However, the treatment plan and dental professional overseeing your care are also important considerations.
Ask your dentist about the type of tooth movements you need, how long treatment may take, how often you'll need appointments, and what you can expect during and after treatment. You can also ask whether Invisalign or SureSmile is appropriate for your particular smile.
Clear aligners require commitment. Because they're removable, you are responsible for wearing them as directed and caring for them properly throughout treatment.
Find the Right Clear Aligner for Your Smile
Invisalign and SureSmile both provide clear aligner options for patients who want to straighten their teeth without traditional fixed braces. While the basic concept is similar, the systems use different technologies, materials, and treatment-planning approaches.
At Gateway Oaks Dental, we can evaluate your smile and discuss whether clear aligner treatment may be appropriate for you. If you're considering Invisalign or SureSmile, we'll help you understand your options and what each treatment could involve based on your individual needs.
Interested in learning more about clear aligners? Contact Gateway Oaks Dental to schedule your orthodontic consultation.
