Would you like to straighten your teeth? You might be interested in using clear aligners because they are discreet and can allow you to eat all of your favorite foods. There are several clear aligner systems on the market today. Some of them, such as Invisalign, are provided by dentists who offer in-person treatment, while others have a more DIY slant. Which type of treatment should you choose? This blog post explains a few reasons why Invisalign is better than mail-order clear aligners.
Overall Value
Direct to consumer clear aligners, also called mail-order aligners or DIY aligners, often cost around $2,000 for start-to-finish treatment. That can seem like an attractive price, especially when you consider the fact that Invisalign often costs more than twice that amount.
However, it is important to consider what you are getting for your money. With Invisalign, you get a tried-and-true, top-tier treatment with a sterling reputation. DIY companies have to keep their costs low, and that is often reflected in the quality of the care they provide.
Personalized Dental Supervision
With Invisalign, you have a local, highly skilled dental team ready to help you throughout your treatment. They will carefully monitor whether your teeth are moving as planned, answer all of your questions, and help you navigate around any obstacles that you may encounter during your teeth-straightening journey.
With mail-order clear aligners, although you will have periodic online appointments to monitor your progress, you cannot enjoy the benefits of in-person care.
Predictable Results
Invisalign has been around for decades. Over the years, it has evolved to the point where it can offer predictable, beautiful results in virtually all cases.
Mail-order clear aligners are less reliable. In fact, several lawsuits have been filed against direct to consumer clear aligner companies by patients who were unhappy with how their teeth turned out.
Materials and Technology
The Invisalign treatment process involves top-quality materials and technology. For example, the aligners are made out of a patented type of plastic that was designed with precise, comfortable tooth movements in mind. Mail-order clear aligners may not have the same emphasis on state-of-the-art technology.
Care for Complex Cases
Invisalign has progressed to the point where it can handle even some rather complex cases of dental misalignment. Often, mail-order companies warn their customers that they should not use their products if their teeth are more than a little crooked.
Which Should You Choose?
If you are still on the fence about whether you should choose Invisalign or a DIY clear aligner system, talk to your dentist. They can help you have realistic expectations about both possibilities so you can make a well-informed decision about how to move forward.
Meet the Practice
New Haven Dental Group is proud to be an Invisalign provider for our community. If you have questions about this treatment and how it compares to other clear aligner systems, we would be happy to speak with you. Contact our Hamden dental office at 203-587-7327.