At-home aligners vs Invisalign- the comparison guide you need to read

Achieving a beautiful, straight smile has never been more accessible with advancements in orthodontic technology. Standard orthodontic braces are no longer the only option for those seeking teeth alignment. At-home aligners and invisible aligners have emerged as popular alternatives, offering convenience and discretion.

So, which option is the right one for you?

At Spa Dental, we have had patients asking us for our opinions on at-home braces versus options like Invisalign Sydney, which our dental team would oversee and, to be honest, we come down on the dental team-assisted option, but probably not for the reasons you think.

In this article, we will compare these two approaches, examining their differences and benefits to help you make an informed decision on which treatment is best suited for your orthodontic needs; at-home aligners or Invisalign Sydney.

Treatment process

At-home aligners, also known as mail-order aligners, are a relatively new trend in orthodontic treatment. They offer a DIY approach, allowing patients to take their dental impressions at home using a kit sent by the company. Once the impressions are sent back, a set of custom aligners is fabricated and delivered to the patient, along with a treatment plan.

On the other hand, invisible aligners, such as Invisalign Sydney, are prescribed and supervised by our team. The process involves a thorough examination of the patient’s teeth, after which a series of custom-made, clear aligners are produced. The treatment plan is meticulously monitored and adjusted as needed throughout the process, making the outcome more predictable.

Professional guidance and monitoring

One of the key distinctions between at-home and invisible aligners is the level of professional involvement. At-home aligners often lack direct supervision from dental professionals. Although some companies have licensed professionals who review the impressions and create treatment plans, the lack of in-person visits may hinder the accuracy and safety of the treatment.

In contrast, invisible aligners are overseen by experienced dentists who assess the patient’s progress during periodic check-ups. This personalised care ensures that issues can be addressed promptly, optimising the treatment and achieving desired results.

Treatment complexity and suitability

At-home aligners are more suitable for mild to moderate dental misalignments; they may not be the best option for complex cases or situations requiring more extensive dental corrections. Furthermore, certain dental issues, such as severe crowding or misalignment of the jaw, may require traditional braces or a more comprehensive treatment approach.

Invisible aligners have proven effective in treating a broader range of orthodontic concerns. These aligners can handle complex cases, making them a versatile choice for many patients seeking to straighten their teeth.

Convenience and compliance

At-home aligners boast convenience as a significant advantage. Patients can take their dental impressions at home and communicate with the company online, minimising the need for in-person visits. However, this convenience can sometimes lead to reduced compliance, as some patients may not adhere strictly to the treatment plan or wear the aligners as directed.

Invisible aligners require more discipline, as patients must wear the aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours per day. However, the treatment’s success is often directly correlated with the patient’s compliance, ensuring that the aligners effectively guide the teeth to their desired positions.

DISCLAIMER

All treatment carries risks. Individual consultation is required with one of our practitioners to ensure that the treatment is right for you.