Invisalign vs Invisalign+: What's the Difference?

As orthodontic technologies continue to evolve, the options available for clear aligner systems are not just about having a "clear tray"; you will also want to understand how your teeth will be moved into alignment throughout your treatment process. Although many people know Invisalign as an option for invisible tooth alignment, we often have patients who ask what makes the Invisalign+ programme different from the typical experience with Invisalign. Read this article to understand this in detail. 

Understanding Invisalign: The Basics

Invisalign is a set of clear aligners custom-made for each patient, designed to provide comfort and convenience. These clear plastic aligners are created using 3D printing technology. They are made from comfortable materials that securely fit around your teeth.

As a popular orthodontic treatment, Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth gradually. These aligners are designed to be worn for about 20 to 22 hours daily. Because they're transparent, Invisalign aligners are less noticeable than traditional metal braces, making them a preferred option for many adults and teens.

At Dental Designs, our Invisalign-certified dentists will take 3D scans or impressions of your teeth during your consultation. These scans are used to create a digital treatment plan that maps out the movement of your teeth over time. You'll receive a new set of aligners in one to two weeks, each designed to move your teeth closer to their final position if worn for an optimal time, as instructed by your dentist.

What Sets Invisalign+ Apart?

Invisalign+ is an accelerated approach to conventional Invisalign Treatment. It changes the way people straighten their teeth with quicker appointments.Invisalign+ addresses not only straightening teeth but also helps to improve your facial aesthetics by creating a harmonious smile through the entire facial structure, not just the teeth.

At Dental Designs Clinic, a beautiful smile is more than just the position of your teeth; it's about how the smile interacts with the rest of your face (lips, cheeks, and any other form) in such a way as to enhance your natural beauty and instil confidence in you.  

What Are The 8-point Smile Analysis? 

• Face Shape Analysis
• Teeth Positioning Analysis
• Intra-oral Photographs
• Muscle and TMJ joint check
• Thorough Medical and Dental History
• Bite and Jaw analysis
• Smile simulation
• Bone and teeth health check

Our dentist will conduct an 8-point analysis during your consultation appointment involving a comprehensive 3D facial scan and extraoral and intraoral photographs. Additionally, X-rays may be recommended to identify further dental issues and confirm that your teeth are in optimal condition for Invisalign treatment.

On the same day, your dentist will conduct an intraoral scan of your teeth and explain the suitable treatment plan using the comprehensive data gathered. Every six months, we will take another scan of your teeth to check your progress along the way!

This treatment can address a range of orthodontic issues, helping patients achieve the desired results without the need for traditional braces. In both treatment processes, the retainer is a pivotal part of helping maintain the position of your newly aligned teeth!

Which plans do we have under Invisalign Plus?

3.5 Months 6 Front Teeth Upper arch only Whitening Kit at the start Includes 1 Retainer for Upper Arch   Simple movement to improve the smile	6 Months 6-8 Teeth Upper & Lower arch Whitening Kit at the start Includes 1 Set Retainer for Upper & Lower Arch                     Simple movement to align upper and lower teeth	6-12 Months >12 Teeth Upper & Lower arch Whitening Kit at the start Includes 1 Set Retainer for Upper & Lower Arch For moderate smile improvements without bite adjustment	>12 Months All Teeth Upper & Lower Arch Whitening Kit at the start Includes 1 Set Retainer for Upper & Lower Arch    Complex movement for facial, smile and bite changes

Comparing the Treatment Process

Both Invisalign and Invisalign+ start with the initial consultation. Your dentist will assess your condition and create a customised plan to guide your teeth into the desired position using 3D scanning technology. Invisalign+ has an additional 8-point analysis done during consultation time.

However, the treatment process may differ in duration and complexity. For standard Invisalign, the treatment time typically ranges from 6 to 18 months, depending on the severity of the alignment issues. In contrast, for Invisalign+ treatment, besides treatment plans for kids, teens and adults, you will be provided an additional Invisalign Journey kit at the start of your treatment.  

What Does The Invisalign Journey Kit Contain?

*For Invisalign + Buddy and Teen, Curaprox Toothpaste will be given instead of Whiten+ Kit.

For more information on invisalign + check out our website!

Both treatments require a commitment to wearing the aligners as prescribed and maintaining good oral hygiene. 

Invisalign Plus Options For Kids And Teens

Our Invisalign+ for kids package offers a comfortable and convenient option to correct dental issues early, providing a less invasive alternative to traditional braces. With tailored treatment plans that consider your child's unique dental needs, Invisalign helps guide growing teeth into their ideal position, all while being invisible and easily removable for eating and cleaning.

With proper care and consistent use, aligners can gradually correct misaligned teeth and improve overall dental health.

Check out our Invisalign+ for kids options on our website for more information! 

Related Articles

• How Invisalign Palatal Expander compliments the invisalign+ journey
• Does age matter with Invisalign?
• Invisalign+ for Very Crooked Teeth: A Modern Solution

Which Option Suits Your Needs?

The orthodontic need for everyone varies. When deciding on whether to proceed with Invisalign or Invisalign+, it's a good idea to first have a checkup with one of our Invisalign-accredited dentists. As an Invisalign Diamond Provider awarded by Align Technology, Dental Designs Clinic has managed a major volume and various types of cases, from mild to moderate and complex. Our dentist will help to develop a personalised treatment plan after the thorough checkup.

Ready to book an appointment? Just drop us a message here and we will be right with you! 

Call us at : +65 6221 8284

FAQs For Invisalign Vs Invisalign+

1. Is the 8-Point Smile Analysis necessary for minor crowding?

Yes. Even minor movements can affect your bite and jaw alignment. We perform this analysis for all Invisalign+ patients to ensure that aesthetic changeswill improve along with the long-term dental function.

2. How often do I need to visit the clinic during treatment?

Typically, the Invisalign+ review appointments occur every 2-3 months, but it varies from person to person as every case is different. Your Invisalign-accredited dentist will be able to inform you how often you will need to visit the clinic after the treatment plan has been confirmed.

3. How long does Invisalign+ Begin take to show results?

Most Invisalign+ Begin patients notice visible changes within the first month. The Begin programme is for those who are generally satisfied with their smile and bite but wants to make minor improvements to their upper 6 front teeth only, for example, presence of small gaps in upper front teeth.

4. Will I speak with a lisp during Invisalign treatment?

Some patients experience a very slight lisp for the first 24–48 hours as the tongue adjusts to the trays. This is temporary and usually resolves quickly with regular speech.

5. Can I switch from traditional braces to Invisalign+ halfway?

Again, this varies from person to person but in many cases, yes. A thorough checkup needs to be done and if eligible, we will proceed. We call this a "braces-to-aligner" transition. We will perform a full 8-point analysis to assess your current progress and design a custom plan to complete your journey discreetly.

References

1. Lin E, Julien K, Kesterke M, Buschang PH. Differences in finished case quality between Invisalign and traditional fixed appliances. Angle Orthod. 2022 Mar 1;92(2):173-179. doi: 10.2319/032921-246.1. PMID: 35168256; PMCID: PMC8887409.