Invisalign is commonly used to address orthodontic needs because of its discreet appearance and treatment customizability. Here, our Surrey orthodontists provide some insight into clear aligners and the different types of Invisalign used to straighten teeth.
What is Invisalign, and how does it straighten teeth?
Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment that helps straighten teeth. It uses a series of clear, plastic aligners that apply pressure to the teeth to gradually move them into their prescribed, healthier positions.
Your orthodontist will use an oral scanner to create a 3D impression of your teeth and bite. The images will then be used to create your aligners, as well as track your progress throughout treatment.
What are the different types of Invisalign?
When it comes to Invisalign, there are different types of aligners to suit various needs. Here, we will discuss each of these types of Invisalign clear aligners in more detail.
Invisalign Comprehensive (Full)
Invisalign Comprehensive is the standard full-length treatment. This treatment option can address a variety of moderate orthodontic problems, such as crowded teeth, misalignments, gaps between teeth, underbites, overbites and more.
While this type of Invisalign treatment usually lasts around 18 months, it can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months. This depends on the complexity of the orthodontic issues. Your orthodontist will provide you with a custom treatment plan to help you meet your goals.
Invisalign Lite
Invisalign Lite uses the same type of clear aligners as standard Invisalign treatment, but the treatment plan is designed to address milder cases. This can include smaller gaps between teeth and minor misalignments. While there is still some customization, you can expect to only wear up to 14 sets of aligner trays. This means that this type of Invisalign treatment will only last around six to eight months.
Invisalign Express
Much as it sounds, Invisalign Express is used to address minor orthodontic issues quickly and effectively. These are usually things like slight overcrowding or spacing issues. This type of Invisalign treatment typically focuses on adjusting the teeth of concern while keeping the remaining teeth in their current position.
Invisalign Express treatment typically lasts up to three months and can be affordable for patients who only need to make minimal adjustments.
There are two options for Invisalign Express:
- Invisalign Express 5: Your teeth will be aligned using five sets of Invisalign trays. This means treatment can be done in as few as three months.
- Invisalign Express 10: Your teeth will be aligned using ten sets of Invisalign trays. You can expect treatment to take up to six months in total.
Invisalign Teen
Invisalign Teen is a different type of Invisalign aligner that is designed to meet the changing needs of teenagers. This is a popular choice with teens as the aligners are clear and can allow for orthodontic treatment without visible metal wires and brackets.
Another benefit of this type of aligner is that it offers unique features that can create a smooth orthodontic experience. These features include:
- Compliance indicators: These are small blue dots that fade gradually over two weeks of wear. Once the dots have vanished, it will be time to change to the next set of aligners. This helps with compliance during treatment.
- Eruption tabs: Invisalign Teen aligners have a handy eruption tab, allowing extra space as the back molars erupt. This prevents the need for an entirely new series of aligners to be made.
- Replacement aligners: The Invisalign Teen treatment program takes busy lives and potential mishaps into consideration and allows up to six sets of replacement aligners.
Treatment using the Invisalign Teen aligner series generally addresses mild to moderate orthodontic issues. On average, treatment can last up to 24 months, but as with all types of Invisalign, the specific timeframe depends on the individual needs of the patient.
Invisalign First
Invisalign First is a special series of aligners that can address misalignment at its earliest signs. This can help prevent the need for more complex treatment in the future. The goal of this type of treatment is to guide the development of the jaw and movement of the teeth to achieve a straight, healthy smile. This series of Invisalign can last up to 18 months on average.
Who would benefit from each type of Invisalign?
As mentioned in each type of Invisalign option above, certain options may be best suited for certain patients.
Adult patients are often prescribed Invisalign Full, Lite or Express, depending on the severity or complexity of their orthodontic needs. Invisalign Teen is designed to address a teen's orthodontic issues while considering their changing needs. Invisalign First is focused on preventing orthodontic issues while a patient is still young, so it may be recommended for children to help guide the development of the jaw and alignment of the teeth and tongue.
Which type of Invisalign clear aligners are right for you?
The type of Invisalign aligner you need will depend on various factors, like your age, orthodontic issues and goals. Your orthodontist can guide you and make recommendations to best suit the desired outcome.