Clear Aligners Compared: Invisalign vs. SmileStyler

Dental braces are a common sight, with hundreds of thousands of people in Australia wearing them at any given time. But for those who don’t want to deal with clunky metal wires and brackets, clear aligners are an alternative to traditional metal braces.

Invisalign and SmileStyler are two popular brands of clear aligners that have gained traction in recent years. Both systems use clear braces to straighten teeth through a series of custom-fit aligners.

What is SmileStyler Clear Aligner?

SmileStyler represents the latest advancement in aligner technology. These clear, custom-fit, and removable aligners have become a popular choice for individuals seeking teeth straightening without visible metal components. Made of clear, flexible plastic, SmileStyler aligners are nearly invisible when worn.

These invisible aligners are tailored to fit your unique teeth and gradually move them into the desired position. Typically, aligners need to be worn for a minimum of 22 hours per day, with a new set of aligners provided every two weeks. The duration of treatment varies from 6 to 24 months, depending on individual circumstances.

SmileStyler clear aligners offer a safe and effective way to achieve straighter teeth, and the cost of treatment is usually more affordable compared to traditional braces. To determine if SmileStyler clear aligners are right for you, it’s important to consult with a dental professional.

What to Know Before Getting Clear Aligners?

1. Suitability: SmileStyler clear aligners may not be suitable for individuals with severely rotated teeth or significant gaps between their teeth.
2. Visibility: While called “invisible braces,” SmileStyler clear aligners are not completely invisible. Although much less noticeable than conventional braces, they may still be slightly visible when you smile.
3. Adjustment Period: It may take some time to get used to wearing aligners. Initially, they can cause discomfort, which subsides as your teeth adjust.
4. Commitment: Wearing SmileStyler clear aligners requires dedication. You need to brush and floss your teeth carefully to prevent food and plaque from getting trapped between the aligners and your teeth, which can lead to cavities and gum disease.
5. Cost: SmileStyler clear aligners are an investment. While treatment costs can vary depending on the severity of your case, they typically range from several thousand dollars.

SmileStyler vs. Invisalign: A Comparison

Both Invisalign and SmileStyler are popular choices for orthodontic treatment with clear aligners. Let’s compare the two systems in terms of patient suitability, treatment process and duration, and cost.

Suitability:

Both SmileStyler and Invisalign:

• Suitable for individuals with good oral health and hygiene habits
• Suitable for those seeking to improve their smile without traditional braces
• Addresses issues like crowded teeth, gaps, and bite function problems

Treatment Process and Duration:

SmileStyler:

• Consult with a SmileStyler provider to discuss goals and suitability assessment
• Intraoral scan, x-rays, and photos of your teeth are taken
• Custom SmileStyler treatment plan created based on digital scans and images
• Clear aligners are produced and shipped to your dentist
• Aligners worn for 20-22 hours per day, with simple corrections taking around 6 months and more complex cases requiring 12-24 months of treatment

Invisalign:

Initial consultation with an orthodontist or Invisalign-trained dentist

• Examination of teeth and discussion of treatment goals
• Digital impressions of teeth are taken to create a personalised treatment plan
• Fabrication of custom Invisalign aligners
• Aligners worn for 20-22 hours per day, with treatment lasting 12-18 months and new aligners provided every 2-4 weeks

Cost:

SmileStyler:

• Treatment cost ranges between $5,000 and $7,500 (exact cost determined during consultation)
• Offers 0% interest payment plans and a money-back guarantee for unsatisfactory results

Invisalign:

• Average cost in Australia ranges from $3,500 to $8,000
• Treatment costs depend on the specific plans and treatments required

Do SmileStyler Aligners Cause Initial Discomfort?

When first wearing SmileStyler aligners, it’s common to experience some tooth soreness. This discomfort is temporary and results from the aligners gently moving your teeth into their new positions. Here are a few tips to ease the initial discomfort:

• Stick to soft foods for a few days until your teeth adjust to the aligners.
• Over-the-counter pain medication can help alleviate any discomfort.
• Wear the aligners for at least 22 hours daily to expedite the adjustment process.
• Maintain proper oral and dental care.

Are SmileStyler Aligners More Painful than Braces?

Many individuals considering SmileStyler aligners wonder if they are more painful than traditional braces. Generally, SmileStyler aligners are not more painful than braces.

Some patients may experience mild discomfort initially as the aligners exert pressure on the teeth. However, this discomfort subsides within a few days. Patients who have worn both braces and SmileStyler aligners often report that the latter is more comfortable. SmileStyler aligners are designed to be as comfortable as possible, with a soft and flexible material that is gentle on teeth and gums. Moreover, since SmileStyler aligners are worn for shorter periods compared to braces, they may cause less overall discomfort.

In summary, SmileStyler clear aligners offer a comfortable and effective solution for achieving straighter teeth.

The Need for Retainers After SmileStyler

After completing SmileStyler treatment, it is highly likely that you will need to wear retainers. While SmileStyler does an excellent job of straightening teeth, retainers help maintain the new position of your teeth.

SmileStyler aligners are made of soft, flexible plastic and are typically replaced every two weeks. In contrast, retainers are made of harder plastic and can be worn for several years. Your orthodontist will likely recommend wearing a retainer at night while you sleep to ensure the longevity of your new smile.