SureSmile® vs. Invisalign: What Is the Difference?
Malocclusion problems compromise oral functions, make oral care more difficult, and detract from the beauty of the smile. Despite the issues associated with a misaligned bite, many people hesitate to undergo orthodontic treatment because they dread the bulky feel and appearance of traditional metal braces.
Invisalign and SureSmile® are two alternatives to braces. Both treatments use virtually invisible aligners to correct the bite over time. Although the procedures are similar, there are differences between SureSmile and Invisalign. Dentists at Gooch Family Dental discuss what differentiates the two treatments and why we offer SureSmile exclusively to our Birmingham, AL, dental patients.
Aligner Materials
Both Invisalign and SureSmile use a series of clear aligners to gradually shift the position of the teeth and jaw. The aligners look similar (both are nearly invisible to the naked eye), and both fit smoothly and comfortably against the teeth and gums.
Despite looking and feeling the same, Invisalign aligners and SureSmile aligners are made of different materials. Invisalign aligners are fabricated using a plastic known as SmartTrack®. SureSmile uses a plastic known as Essix ACE. Invisalign aligners tend to be better suited to minor adjustments because the aligners’ movement is more predictable, but SureSmile is more effective for advanced malocclusion problems, which is why we prefer it for our Birmingham patients.
Degree of Correction Provided
The most significant difference between Invisalign and SureSmile is the degree of correction provided. Invisalign and SureSmile can both correct many of the same malocclusion problems as traditional braces, including:
- Gapped teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Overcrowded teeth
- Misaligned bite
- Underbite
- Overbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
Although each treatment addresses the abovementioned concerns, Invisalign is limited in the degree of correction provided. SureSmile is offered exclusively at our Birmingham dental practice because it is more effective than Invisalign at correcting severe malocclusion problems such as pronounced overbites and large gaps between the teeth.
Similarities Between Invisalign and SureSmile
While differences exist between Invisalign and SureSmile, there are also a few similarities.
Ease of Care
One thing that Invisalign and SureSmile aligners have in common is their ease of care. Both types of aligners are removable, so they can be taken out when a patient eats, drinks, brushes, or flosses. Not only does this make oral hygiene habits easier, but it helps to prevent discoloration that could develop if foods or beverages got trapped between the teeth and aligner trays.
Treatment Timeline
Throughout Invisalign and SureSmile treatment, patients progress through a series of aligner trays. Each set of aligners fits slightly different to promote necessary movement. Typical treatment plans for both Invisalign and SureSmile last 12 to 18 months, however, this can vary based on the patient’s individual case and may be shorter or longer in duration.
Send Us a Message
SureSmile is a discreet and comfortable braces alternative that can correct minor to advanced malocclusion problems. If you are interested in learning more about SureSmile and whether you are an ideal candidate for treatment, send us a message and request an appointment at Gooch Family Dental.
