In this day and age, almost everyone has heard of Invisalign. As the leaders in “clear aligner” technology, they have been on the scene since the 1990s and have developed dozens of patents in the field of clear aligner orthodontics. Today, there are more options than ever before when it comes to choosing which aligners are best for your teeth. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of clear aligners vs. traditional metal braces. 

First, clear aligners are just that—clear. This means that to the vast majority of people you encounter during the day, they will barely be noticeable, if at all. Second, unlike metal braces that are cemented in place, clear aligners can be removed to eat, drink, and brush and floss your teeth. This not only makes these activities easier, it reduces the chance that the treatment itself will cause tooth decay, as is a normal concern with metal braces. 

Although Invisalign was and arguably still is the leader in clear aligner therapy, more and more companies are popping up that offer alternatives. Which type of aligner that is right for you should be determined by a conversation with your dentist or orthodontist. 

Speaking of your dentist, how nice would it be to get straighter teeth without braces and without ever visiting a dental office? One company—Smile Club Direct—is making that a reality with their bold new business model. The company sends patients an impression kit in the mail, which the patient uses to make molds of their teeth. Once these molds are sent back to Smile Club, licensed dentists and orthodontists devise a treatment plan and fabricate the aligners, which are then mailed to the patients with instructions for use. It’s no stretch to say that Smile Club Direct is challenging the very model of health care delivery itself. 

If you have always wanted straighter teeth but did not want to deal with the discomfort and aesthetic sacrifices of braces, talk your dentist about how clear aligner therapy can change your smile.