While many people want to straighten their teeth for a more beautiful smile, studies confirm that people with straight teeth may be more successful at landing their next job or going on a second date. In addition to social reasons, straight teeth are easier to clean. Therefore, straightening crooked teeth may decrease the likelihood of developing cavities and gum disease.

While there are many ways that dentists straighten teeth, two clear aligner companies that are gaining popularity are Invisalign® and Six Month® Smiles. Continue reading to understand four considerations when weighing between these two orthodontic options.

1. Treatment Time

On average, Invisalign treatment time is 12 to 18 months long, but patients often see results within a matter of weeks. In comparison, Six Months Smiles cuts Invisalign treatment time by half. Six Months Smiles patients complete their treatment in 6 to 9 months for the most part.

2. Candidacy

Older teens and adults can benefit from both treatment options, but Invisalign can correct more complex cases. Invisalign can treat mild to moderate:

• Underbite
• Crossbite
• Gap Teeth
• Open Bite
• Crowded Teeth

Also, patients with an imbalanced TMJ (temporomandibular joint) often experience discomfort in the hinge-like joint and other negative ailments throughout the body. Dentists sometimes prescribe Invisalign to align the TMJ, so that patients do not experience the negative side-effects associated with this disorder.

Unlike Invisalign, Six Month Smiles is more limited and is best suited for patients who:

• Are older than 15 years of age
• Have fully developed primary teeth
• Minor dental misalignment (such as slight crowding, crookedness, or gaps)

If you have severe misalignment, then your dentist may recommend you to an orthodontist for traditional braces.

3. Affordability Factor

Generally speaking, both treatments are equivalent to or less than the cost of traditional braces. According to the manufacturer’s website, the cost of Invisalign is comparable to the cost of conventional braces. Conversely, Six Month Smiles tends to be more economical because fewer materials are used to complete a shorter treatment cycle.

Also, it’s noteworthy that if your insurance covers traditional braces, it should cover clear aligner treatment. Speak to your insurance provider for more information about your dental coverage.

4. Clear Aesthetics

Both Invisalign and Six Month Smiles boast virtually invisible aesthetics, but Invisalign clear aligners can be a little more subtle than Six Month Smiles. Invisalign trays are composed of clear, medical-grade plastic (multilayer aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane/copolyester, to be exact).

In contrast, Six Month Smiles offers two types of treatments (1) clear aligners and (2) clear braces. While the transparent plastic for the clear aligners is similar to Invisalign’s, the clear braces are more noticeable. However, Six Month Smiles clear braces are still less noticeable than traditional braces because the brackets and wires are tooth-colored instead of metallic. 

Schedule a Consultation for Six Month Smiles or Invisalign

In conclusion, both Six Month Smiles and Invisalign are great options for aligning the teeth. However, when comparing both options:

• The Six Month Smiles system is faster and less expensive.
• While the Invisalign system can tackle more complex cases and is generally more aesthetically pleasing.

If you’re unsure about which discreet orthodontic treatment to go for, visit a skilled dentist in your area. Dr. Abbey Lee provides advice about improving the appearance of patients’ smiles at her clinic in Atlanta, GA. To learn more about different options for straightening your teeth, call 404-328-7177 or message us online at your earliest convenience.