What is the difference between SureSmile and Invisalign?
Have you recently been considering orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth? Are you concerned about the appearance of traditional braces with metal wires and brackets? You are not alone.
The good news is that there are a variety of treatment options available today. One option that has become increasingly popular over recent years is clear aligners. That’s because they are a discreet and convenient choice for achieving a straighter smile. Two of the most commonly used brands are Invisalign and SureSmile.
But what are the differences between these two types of clear aligners? Here, we share more information about Invisalign and SureSmile and discuss which option might be best for you.
Why get clear aligners?
While Invisalign and SureSmile each have their differences, clear aligners share some key benefits. These include:
- Easy cleaning: You can remove clear aligners to brush and floss your teeth, which allows you to clean the aligners properly.
- Low risk of appliance damage: Clear aligners are usually one solid piece of plastic per tray. This design means the risk of damaging the appliances may be low.
- Simple removal: You can take out your clear aligners when you want to eat or drink anything, or when playing music or sports.
- Aesthetics: Clear aligners are made out of transparent plastic, which may make them less visible on your teeth than the metal wires that come with braces.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign is the pioneer brand behind orthodontic treatment using clear aligners. The idea was that the technology behind retainers could be adapted to create a whole teeth-straightening solution. Metal wires and brackets would no longer be needed.
To begin the Invisalign process, your orthodontist will capture 3D images of your mouth to create a digital impression of your teeth. These scans will be sent to an Invisalign laboratory, where your new custom-made aligners will be created.
Once your clear aligners have been created, you'll visit your orthodontist so they can check the fit before you begin treatment. Like all clear aligners, you will need to wear Invisalign for 20 to 22 hours a day. This will help to ensure success during treatment. Invisalign can be used in standard to moderately complex orthodontic cases, and you can expect treatment to take around 12 to 18 months. However, this timeframe will vary from case to case.
SureSmile Aligners
SureSmile aligners are a newer brand of clear aligners that involve a process similar to Invisalign. One main difference is the technology used during treatment planning. If you choose this treatment method, an orthodontist will use a system called OraScanner® to create a 3D model of your upper and lower teeth for treatment planning and the creation of dental impressions. This representation of your smile will be sent to a lab, where your new SureSmile aligners are created using a laser device and then sent back to the orthodontist for you to pick up.
During treatment planning, the orthodontist will determine the expected outcome of treatment and decide how many sets of aligners will be needed to complete your treatment. Like Invisalign, you will need to wear your new clear aligners for at least 20 - 22 hours each day.
Invisalign vs. SureSmile
Many patients ask about the various alternatives to braces, and when discussing clear aligners, we are often asked, 'Is SureSmile the same as Invisalign? While they are similar, there are a few key differences that we would like to share:
Time on the Market: One major difference between Invisalign and SureSmile is how long they have been available. Invisalign has been around for approximately 10 years longer than SureSmile. This may contribute to how recognizable the brand has become.
Each of these brands is also designed and developed by different companies. Align Technology produces Invisalign, and OraMetrix owns SureSmile.
Aligner Material: Invisalign clear aligners and SureSmile use different materials to create their aligners. Invisalign offers aligners that are created with multiple layers, while SureSmile’s material is a bit thinner.
Treatment Process: While both types of clear aligners are typically worn for 20 - 22 hours a day, there are some key differences in the treatment timeframes.
In general, there is no significant difference in treatment duration between Invisalign and SureSmile. How long your treatment will last depends entirely upon your individual case and your dentist's recommendations specific to your treatment. Keep in mind that orthodontic treatment with any type of orthodontic appliance can take months to years, depending on your needs.
So, is Invisalign better than SureSmile? In the end, your choice will be based on your personal preferences along with the options available to you. At Vincelli Orthodontics, our treatment option of choice is Invisalign. We are happy to offer a consultation and smile assessment to get you started and can help guide you through the process.