Invisalign Treatments and Alternatives

Misaligned teeth can affect your confidence and overall oral health. Traditional metal braces were once the only option, but modern dentistry now offers several solutions. Invisalign has become a popular choice thanks to its clear, removable aligners. This article explains what Invisalign involves and compares it with three key alternatives: traditional metal braces, ClearCorrect, and lingual braces.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign uses a series of custom-made plastic aligners to gradually move teeth into the desired position. The aligners are virtually transparent, so most people find them more discreet than metal braces. They are also removable, which means you can take them out for meals and for brushing and flossing. This helps you maintain good oral hygiene and enjoy the foods you like.

At Keys Dental, we offer Invisalign treatments as part of our cosmetic dentistry services. We tailor the treatment plan to your smile goals and the complexity of your case. Treatment time varies, but many patients see results in six to 18 months, depending on the level of correction needed.

Key Pros of Invisalign

• Clear, removable aligners
• No brackets or wires
• Easy to clean, which supports oral hygiene
• Smooth plastic surfaces that are often more comfortable than metal braces

Key Cons of Invisalign

• May not be the best option for severe misalignment
• Requires discipline to wear aligners at least 22 hours a day
• Can be more expensive than other options

Top 3 Alternatives to Invisalign

Below are three of the most common orthodontic alternatives. Each option has unique strengths, so it is worth considering how they compare to Invisalign in terms of appearance, comfort, cost, and suitability.

Traditional Metal Braces

Metal braces have been around for decades. They consist of metal brackets that are fixed to the teeth, connected by wires and small elastics. Regular adjustments help guide the teeth into position over time.

Pros

• Highly effective for severe or complex misalignment
• Durable, with strong brackets and wires
• Often one of the least expensive orthodontic options
• Permanently in place, eliminating the need to remember aligners

Cons

• Highly visible
• Wires and brackets can irritate cheeks and gums
• Cleaning requires extra effort around brackets and wires
• Regular visits for adjustments

Ideal Candidates

• Patients with moderate to severe misalignment
• Those on a tighter budget or who are not concerned about visibility
• Individuals who need comprehensive correction

ClearCorrect

ClearCorrect is a clear aligner system similar to Invisalign. It uses a series of transparent trays to guide teeth into the correct position.

Pros

• Aligners are clear, so they often go unnoticed
• Removable for eating, brushing, and flossing
• No metal components, reducing the risk of irritation
• Suitable for mild to moderate misalignment

Cons

• Fewer providers in some regions compared to Invisalign
• May not handle severe cases as effectively as braces
• Requires consistent wear for best results
• Costs vary depending on complexity and location

Ideal Candidates

• Individuals seeking a clear aligner option other than Invisalign
• Those with mild to moderate misalignment
• Patients wanting a removable solution for easier oral hygiene

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are fixed behind the teeth, so they are not visible from the front. They use brackets and wires just like metal braces, but they are positioned on the tongue-facing side of the teeth.

Pros

• Often undetectable when smiling
• Similar effectiveness to metal braces for complex misalignment
• Permanently in place, so no additional reminders are needed

Cons

• Generally more expensive due to custom fittings
• Brackets can irritate the tongue
• Adjustments may be more involved and time-consuming
• Some people experience a slight lisp initially

Ideal Candidates

• Patients looking for a hidden option but need the strength of fixed braces
• Those prepared to invest in a more expensive treatment
• Individuals with moderate to severe alignment issues

Quick Comparison at a Glance

Treatment	Visibility	Comfort	Cost Range	Suitable Cases
Invisalign	Clear aligners	Generally comfortable; removable	Mid-to-higher range	Mild to moderate; some complex cases
Metal Braces	Highly visible	Can cause irritation	Often lower than aligners	Mild to severe; especially severe issues
ClearCorrect	Clear aligners	Generally comfortable; removable	Similar or lower than Invisalign	Mild to moderate
Lingual Braces	Hidden behind the teeth	Possible tongue irritation; fixed	Higher overall cost	Mild to severe; those seeking a hidden solution

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Orthodontic Option

• Severity of Misalignment: Fixed braces (metal or lingual) are often better for complex or severe cases. Mild to moderate cases may be well suited to clear aligners like Invisalign or ClearCorrect.
• Lifestyle: If you do not want a visible appliance, clear aligners or lingual braces are good choices. Remember that aligners need diligent wear.
• Comfort and Maintenance: Metal braces can irritate cheeks and gums. Aligners are smoother but require removing and cleaning throughout the day.
• Budget: Metal braces are usually more affordable, while Invisalign, ClearCorrect, and lingual braces can be more expensive.
• Treatment Timeline: Timelines vary by individual. Fixed braces can sometimes address complex alignment issues more quickly, whereas aligners may take longer for severe cases.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Invisalign is a popular and effective way to straighten teeth. It offers a transparent look and the flexibility of removing aligners for meals, brushing, and special occasions. If you want to explore other methods, traditional metal braces, ClearCorrect, and lingual braces are strong alternatives. Each comes with advantages and drawbacks, so the right choice depends on your budget, comfort level, and the nature of your misalignment.

Keys Dental in Clarkson, WA offers comprehensive services, including Invisalign, to help you achieve a confident and healthy smile. We invite you to book an assessment to see if Invisalign or another orthodontic option suits you. Our team is ready to guide you from your initial consultation to your final results.

Ready to take the next step? Contact us or visit our Invisalign page to schedule a consultation.