Do You Need an Invisalign Alternative?
Sometimes, Invisalign isn’t the ideal treatment for everyone. Whether due to the cost or the complexity of your orthodontic needs, there are effective alternatives to Invisalign available. If you find that Invisalign isn’t suitable for you, don’t worry—many other options may align with your needs.
At Brown and Baran Family Dentistry, our skilled dentists in Wilmington and Seaford, DE, will thoroughly evaluate your oral health and recommend the best orthodontic treatment for you. We offer Invisalign, but in cases where another solution is better suited, we may refer you to a trusted orthodontist.
To learn more, contact our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a popular clear aligner system used to correct mild to moderate misalignment issues. The aligners are removable, allowing patients to eat, drink, and maintain oral hygiene easily.
Treatment typically lasts 12 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the case. The aligners gradually shift the teeth into their desired positions with the help of custom-fitted trays designed through 3D imaging.
Best Invisalign Alternatives
If Invisalign is not suitable, other orthodontic treatments may work for you. During your consultation, we will discuss these alternatives to find the best solution for your smile.
Traditional Braces
Traditional metal braces are a tried-and-true solution for correcting complex orthodontic problems like severe misalignment or bite issues. They consist of brackets attached to the teeth that are connected by wires. While they’re more visible than clear aligners, modern advancements have made braces more comfortable and effective.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are placed behind the teeth, making them virtually invisible from the front. While effective, they can be more difficult to clean and adjust.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces, or clear braces, are a type of orthodontic appliance that work similarly to traditional metal braces but use tooth-colored or clear brackets, making them less noticeable. They’re a good option for patients concerned about aesthetics while needing treatment for more complex alignment issues.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces, similar to metal braces, use a special clip system to hold the wire in place, reducing friction and discomfort. This option often results in fewer office visits and quicker treatment times than traditional braces.
Retainers
While retainers are primarily used post-treatment, they can help maintain alignment if worn regularly. They’re typically not effective for treating severe misalignment on their own but are essential for keeping your teeth in place after braces or aligners.
Other Types of Clear Aligners
If Invisalign aligners aren’t an option, other clear aligner systems may work. These alternatives to Invisalign include:
- ClearCorrect: ClearCorrect works similarly to Invisalign, offering discreet, removable aligners that gradually shift teeth.
- Byte: Byte offers at-home aligner kits with a proprietary HyperByte device (a high-frequency vibration device), claiming to speed up treatment.
- SureSmile: SureSmile uses advanced 3D technology and robotic wire-bending techniques to create precise and efficient treatments.
- Candid: Candid aligners are sent directly to your home, and your progress is monitored remotely by orthodontists.
- Orthly: Orthly offers clear aligners that are monitored by dental professionals through a mobile app.
Which Treatment is Best for You?
When determining what orthodontic treatment plan is best for you, you and your dental professional will discuss the following:
- Effectiveness: The most important factor is whether the treatment will effectively correct your dental issues. Our Wilmington and Seaford dentists can evaluate your teeth and recommend the best alignment method for your specific needs.
- Aesthetics: Invisalign clear aligners and lingual braces are more aesthetically pleasing than metal braces but may not be as effective for correcting severe dental issues. Consider your personal preferences and lifestyle when choosing a treatment.
- Cost: Dental alignment treatments can vary in cost, so consider your budget when making a decision. Your dental insurance may cover some or all of the costs of certain devices, so be sure to check with your provider.
- Convenience: Invisalign can be removed for eating and cleaning, making them a convenient option for many patients. However, they do require a certain level of responsibility and commitment to wearing them consistently. They can also only correct mild to moderate dental issues, so you may not qualify for Invisalign.
What Do Invisalign Alternatives Treat?
Invisalign alternatives can address a variety of orthodontic concerns, such as:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite, underbite, and crossbite
- Severe misalignment
- Rotated teeth
- Bite irregularities like open bites or deep bites
Frequently Asked Questions
The treatment timeline depends on the severity of your misalignment. Traditional braces often take 18 to 24 months, while clear aligners like Invisalign and ClearCorrect may take anywhere from six to 18 months.
It’s normal to experience some discomfort or soreness after getting braces or starting clear aligner treatment. This discomfort usually subsides within a few days, but over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses can help alleviate any discomfort you may feel.
With traditional braces, certain foods—such as popcorn, hard candy, or sticky gum—should be avoided to protect the brackets and wires. Clear aligners like Invisalign can be removed during meals, allowing you to eat as you normally would.
Traditional metal braces are generally the most affordable option. Clear aligners like Byte may offer lower-cost alternatives to Invisalign, but they may not be suitable for complex cases. Be sure to consult your dental professional about the most cost-effective solution for your needs.
Start Your Journey to a Straighter Smile Today
Don’t let crooked or misaligned teeth hold you back from feeling confident. At Brown and Baran Family Dentistry, we’re committed to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams. Call our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589 to schedule a consultation today.
Together, we’ll explore your Invisalign alternatives and find the best treatment for your smile. We proudly serve new and returning patients throughout Delaware and its surrounding areas.
