3M Clarity Aligners vs Invisalign

With the growing popularity of clear aligner orthodontic treatment, many patients face similar key questions when evaluating options between aligner providers: Which system provides the greatest precision and customization? What cases are covered and any age limitations? What are some of the material and technology differences involved?

This analysis compares two of the leading clear aligner brands – 3M Clarity Aligners and Invisalign. While both utilize a series of plastic trays to gradually shift teeth without visible wires and brackets, some variations emerge when analyzing their treatment process, age ranges, case versatility, and overall system effectiveness. Digging into these aspects helps patients in making an informed aligner choice tailored to their situation. So how do these two aligners compare in the essential areas? We weigh key factors shaping both systems.

What is Invisalign

Invisalign is a popular clear aligner system produced by Align Technology, a pioneering clear aligner company founded in 1997. Over its 25+ year history, Align has treated approximately 16 million patients globally with Invisalign.

The Invisalign system uses a series of clear, removable plastic aligners that are custom-fitted to a patient’s teeth and changed out approximately every 1-2 weeks during treatment. Each aligner is programmed to move the teeth at incremental distances until the desired position is reached.

Treatment plans are created using Align’s proprietary software, which maps out precise 3D simulations of the teeth’s planned movements across the aligner series. These treatment plans require prescription and management by trained Invisalign providers – either orthodontists or general dentists.

Invisalign aligners are crafted using patented SmartTrack material, an elastic FDA-cleared plastic uniquely engineered to apply light, and constant force on teeth. Special features like precision-cut Aligner Auxiliaries and SmartForce attachments further aid specific movements.

Who Is the Candidate for Invisalign

Invisalign is a versatile teeth straightening option suitable for a wide array of people, including both teens and adults who have fully erupted permanent teeth. Additionally, it caters to younger patients aged 6-10 through Invisalign First, which is specifically designed to guide early dental development. The system is adept at addressing a variety of dental issues, ranging from cosmetic concerns like crooked, gapped, or crowded teeth to more complex functional problems, including overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites.

PROs and CONs of Invisalign

Let’s explore the pros and cons of undergoing Invisalign treatment.

PROs of Invisalign

• Highly Trusted Brand: Invisalign’s reputation is well-established in the orthodontic aligner market, known for its high-quality, reliable treatments. As a pioneer in clear aligner technology, it has a long history of successful outcomes and patient satisfaction.
• Patented SmartTrack Material: This advanced material is a significant innovation unique to Invisalign. It provides improved comfort compared to traditional braces and allows for more precise and predictable tooth movement, leading to potentially shorter treatment times.
• Versatile for Various Dental Issues: Invisalign can address a wide range of orthodontic needs, from straightforward alignment corrections to more intricate bite-related problems. 
• Personalized Treatment and Support: Invisalign treatments are not one-size-fits-all; they are customized for each individual. This personalized approach, combined with ongoing guidance and support from local dental professionals, ensures a high level of care and attention to each patient’s unique journey.
• Suitable for Kids: Catering to the growing need for early orthodontic intervention, Invisalign offers Invisalign First for younger patients. 
• Wide Availability: The fact that Invisalign is available through both dentists and orthodontists means that finding a provider is relatively easy. This widespread availability can be an advantage for patients looking for accessible treatment options.

CONs of Invisalign

• Higher Price Point: Invisalign’s advanced technology and brand reputation contribute to its higher cost compared to other clear aligner options, e.g. at-home aligners like Byte.
• Regular Dental Visits Required: While Invisalign incorporates remote monitoring technologies, the treatment still necessitates regular in-person dental check-ups. 
• Limited Effectiveness in Complex Cases: For certain complex orthodontic issues, particularly those requiring significant jaw realignment or rotation of severely angled teeth, traditional braces might be more effective than Invisalign. 

See also: Invisalign vs. Byte: Choosing the Right Treatment

How Invisalign Works

Invisalign treatment starts with a patient undergoing digital scans, x-rays, and a dental examination at a dental office. During this visit, the patient undergoes digital scans, x-rays, and a comprehensive dental examination to assess their suitability for Invisalign.

Once the initial scans are complete, the patient’s orthodontist collaborates with Invisalign to create a personalized treatment plan, which is visualized for the patient through a 3D animation, showing the expected outcomes. 

The patient then receives their first set of aligners from their dentist. These aligners are to be worn as instructed and are typically followed up with monthly check-ups. These appointments allow the dentist to monitor the patient’s progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Throughout the treatment, additional orthodontic tools, such as attachments and elastics, may be used to help achieve the desired tooth alignment. These tools are integral in guiding the teeth into their correct positions more efficiently.

After the treatment is completed, the patient receives retainers from their dentist. These retainers are crucial in ensuring that the teeth remain in their new, aligned position and do not revert to their original state, maintaining the results of the Invisalign treatment.

See our review of Invisalign.

What is 3M Clarity

3M Clarity Aligners are clear orthodontic aligners produced by 3M, a globally recognized company with over 70 years of experience and innovation in the oral health space. Beyond aligners, 3M offers a wide span of orthodontic products including clear, metal, and lingual braces.

3M Clarity Aligners feature a unique two-material system developed by 3M scientists: Clarity Aligners Flex and Clarity Aligners Force. The flexible Clarity Aligners Flex material is ideal for initial treatment phases focused on crowding and misalignments requiring gentle force. Meanwhile, the more rigid Clarity Aligners Force is better suited for later phases needing stronger corrective forces for issues like torque and vertical discrepancies. This dual-material approach enables orthodontists to customize the treatment progression with greater efficacy.

Unlike some aligner competitors, 3M Clarity treatments are exclusively provided by orthodontists, ensuring patients receive care administered under specialized oversight only. Additionally, 3M Clarity makes it possible to combine clear aligners with other 3M orthodontic treatments like clear braces for further personalization.

See also: Suresmile vs Invisalign

Who Is the Candidate for 3M Clarity Aligners

3M Clarity Aligners are cleared for orthodontic treatment on patients ages 13+ without any remaining baby teeth. They are designed to address a wide variety of misalignments and dental malocclusions while not significantly altering jaw position. As they can grip all teeth including molars, 3M Clarity excels at corrections involving tooth positioning. Their innovative attachment design also enables flexible placement and multiple engagers per tooth, allowing for multidirectional movement.

Specifically, 3M Clarity effectively treats issues like dental overbites and moderate skeletal underbites, along with most simple to mixed crossbites. The aligners can also close open bites ranging from class I through class III as well as rotate moderately turned teeth. Additionally, they are suitable for addressing substantial tooth crowding and closing gaps, except in extreme spacing cases potentially requiring supplemental treatment.

PROs and CONs of 3M Clarity

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of 3M Clarity Aligners.

PROs

• Treatment Provided by Orthodontists: Unlike many clear aligner brands that are driven by either dentists or orthodontists, 3M Clarity Aligners are exclusively available through orthodontists. This specialized approach typically results in a superior level of expertise in managing and implementing treatments, compared to those offered by general dentists..
• Wide Range of Treatable Malocclusions: 3M Clarity Aligners are adept at correcting a diverse array of dental misalignments, including overbites, underbites, crossbites, open bites, and issues with tooth crowding and spacing, making them a versatile choice.
• Customized Treatment with Two Materials: The unique two-material system (Flex and Force) allows orthodontists to customize the treatment more precisely. Flex is used for the initial, gentler stages, and Force is for later stages requiring stronger corrective actions, providing a more effective and comfortable treatment experience.
• Option to Combine Treatments: 3M Clarity Aligners offer the flexibility to be used in conjunction with other orthodontic treatments, such as clear braces, which can enhance the effectiveness of the overall orthodontic plan and offer more comprehensive solutions to complex dental issues.
• Low-Profile Attachments: The attachments used with 3M Clarity Aligners are low-profile and less noticeable, enhancing aesthetic appeal. They also allow for a wider range of tooth movement compared to some competitors, providing more effective and efficient alignment.

CONs

• Higher Cost: The price of these aligners is generally higher than many other brands available in the market, with costs similar to those of Invisalign.
• Limited Provider Availability: As 3M Clarity Aligners are exclusively available through orthodontists, finding a provider can be more challenging compared to other brands that have a wider availability. 
• Regular Orthodontist Visits Required: Patients using 3M Clarity Aligners need to commit to regular visits to their orthodontist every 4 to 10 weeks.

See also: Review of 3M Clarity Aligners

How 3M Clarity Works

The process of getting 3M Clarity Aligners begins with using the 3M Clarity Smile app for a virtual try-on, allowing you to see a preview of how your smile might look with the aligners. The next step is to find an orthodontist who offers Clarity Aligners, which can be done through the 3M website.

Once you’ve found a provider, the initial consultation involves a detailed assessment of your smile, including taking photos, X-rays, and a digital scan. If you decide to proceed with Clarity Aligners, your orthodontist will use 3M’s software to create a customized treatment plan for you.

After your treatment plan is finalized, you’ll receive your aligners and start the treatment. You’re expected to wear each aligner tray for more than 22 hours a day for a period of 1 to 2 weeks each, as instructed by your orthodontist.

During the treatment, the 3M Clarity app allows you to track your aligner wear time, and share progress photos with your doctor. Finally, after completing the aligner treatment, wearing a retainer for several months is essential to ensure your teeth maintain their new positions.

Clarity Aligners vs Invisalign – Main Differences

Effectiveness 

In-office aligner systems like 3M Clarity Aligners and Invisalign are highly effective in treating a wide range of malocclusions, as they both utilize attachments and can move molars. 

While their range of treated malocclusions is similar, there is a distinct difference in patient suitability. Invisalign caters to a broader age group, offering treatment options for both children and adults, including younger patients through its Invisalign First program. This makes Invisalign versatile for early orthodontic intervention as well as for adults. 

On the other hand, 3M Clarity is designed for individuals aged 13 and above with fully erupted permanent dentition, targeting teenagers and adults.

Treatment Process

The treatment process for 3M Clarity Aligners and Invisalign, while similar in some aspects, has key differences that set them apart.

One of the most significant differences is the versatility in treatment options offered by 3M Clarity Aligners. They can be combined with other 3M orthodontic treatments, such as clear braces, providing a more comprehensive and customizable approach to orthodontic care. This integration capability allows for a tailored treatment plan that can address a wider range of orthodontic issues more effectively.

In terms of provider, 3M Clarity Aligners are exclusively available through orthodontists, ensuring specialized and expert-led treatment. In contrast, Invisalign is accessible via both orthodontists and general dentists, offering wider availability but with varying levels of orthodontic expertise.

Both 3M Clarity and Invisalign employ patented materials in their aligners. 3M Clarity uses a unique two-material system, Flex and Force, allowing for customized treatment tailored to different stages of the orthodontic process. Invisalign uses its patented SmartTrack material, known for its advanced properties that contribute to comfort and efficient tooth movement.

Despite these differences, both systems require regular check-ups at dental offices. These appointments are crucial for monitoring progress, making adjustments to the treatment plan, and ensuring the effectiveness of the aligners.

Price

The cost of Invisalign and 3M Clarity Aligners typically ranges between $3,000 to $7,000 and $3,000 to $8,000, respectively, with the average for both hovering around $5,000. 

Both Invisalign and 3M Clarity Aligners’ final costs are determined by the treating orthodontist or dentist and can vary based on factors such as treatment complexity, frequency of visits, and overall treatment length. 

Additionally, the specific rates set by the orthodontist, influenced by overhead expenses like salaries, rent, and utilities, may play a role in the final pricing, leading to potential variations in costs for different patients even within the same treatment type.

Treatment Time

The treatment duration for both 3M Clarity Aligners and Invisalign varies based on individual needs but generally ranges from 6 to 24 months. The timeframe is influenced by the severity of dental misalignments, the patient’s age and patient compliance with wearing the aligners for at least 22 hours daily.

3M Clarity Aligners vs Invisalign: Choosing the Right Treatment

The choice between 3M Clarity aligners and Invisalign depends on individual preferences and specific treatment needs. Invisalign, with its long-standing reputation and recognition in the market, is known for its patented SmartTrack material, contributing to its effectiveness and innovation in orthodontic care.

3M Clarity Aligners, produced by the global leader 3M, bring versatility to orthodontic treatment, allowing for combination with other 3M orthodontic methods such as clear braces. A unique aspect of 3M Clarity is that their treatments are exclusively provided by orthodontists, ensuring specialized and expert-led care.

Both systems utilize patented materials, with 3M Clarity employing a two-material system (Flex and Force) for customized treatments, and Invisalign featuring the SmartTrack material. Regular check-ups at dental offices are essential for both, ensuring effective treatment progress.

Choosing between 3M Clarity Aligners and Invisalign will depend on personal preferences for treatment options and provider types. Whether it’s the comprehensive and specialized approach of 3M Clarity or the widespread recognition and material innovation of Invisalign, both are capable options for achieving improved dental alignment.

Sources

Gierie, W. V., Clear Aligner Therapy: An Overview; Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, 2018. Available online at: https://www.jco-online.com/archive/2018/12/665-aligner-corner-clear-aligner-therapy-an-overview/

Elshazly, T. et al. Effect of Trimming Line Design and Edge Extension of Orthodontic Aligners on Force Transmission: An in vitro Study. Journal of Dentistry (2022). doi: 10.1016/j.jdent.2022.1042765. Available online at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36055460/

Bowman, S. J., Celenza, F., Sparaga, J., Papadopoulos, M. A., Ojima, K., Cheng-Yi Lin, J., Creative Adjuncts for Clear Aligners, Part 1: Class II Treatment; Journal of Clinical Orthodontists, Available online at: www.jco-online.com/archive/2015/02/83/

Alansari, R. A., Faydhi, D. A., Ashour, B. S., Alsaggaf, D. H., Shuman, M. T., Ghoneim, S. H., Linjawi, A. I., Marghalani, H. YA., Dause, R. R>, Adult Perceptions of Different Orthodontic Appliances, Patient Prefer Adherence. 2019; DOI: 10.2147/PPA.S234449. Available online at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6916694/

Elshazly, T. et al. Effect of Trimming Line Design and Edge Extension of Orthodontic Aligners on Force Transmission: An in vitro Study. Journal of Dentistry (2022). doi: 10.1016/j.jdent.2022.1042765. Available online at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36055460/

Bowman, S. J., Celenza, F., Sparaga, J., Papadopoulos, M. A., Ojima, K., Cheng-Yi Lin, J., Creative Adjuncts for Clear Aligners, Part 1: Class II Treatment; Journal of Clinical Orthodontists, Available online at: www.jco-online.com/archive/2015/02/83/

Alansari, R. A., Faydhi, D. A., Ashour, B. S., Alsaggaf, D. H., Shuman, M. T., Ghoneim, S. H., Linjawi, A. I., Marghalani, H. YA., Dause, R. R>, Adult Perceptions of Different Orthodontic Appliances, Patient Prefer Adherence. 2019; DOI: 10.2147/PPA.S234449. Available online at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6916694/

Elshazly, T. et al. Effect of Trimming Line Design and Edge Extension of Orthodontic Aligners on Force Transmission: An in vitro Study. Journal of Dentistry (2022). doi: 10.1016/j.jdent.2022.1042765. Available online at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36055460/

Bowman, S. J., Celenza, F., Sparaga, J., Papadopoulos, M. A., Ojima, K., Cheng-Yi Lin, J., Creative Adjuncts for Clear Aligners, Part 1: Class II Treatment; Journal of Clinical Orthodontists, Available online at: www.jco-online.com/archive/2015/02/83/

Alansari, R. A., Faydhi, D. A., Ashour, B. S., Alsaggaf, D. H., Shuman, M. T., Ghoneim, S. H., Linjawi, A. I., Marghalani, H. YA., Dause, R. R>, Adult Perceptions of Different Orthodontic Appliances, Patient Prefer Adherence. 2019; DOI: 10.2147/PPA.S234449. Available online at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6916694/

Alajmi S., Shaban A, Al-Azemi R. Comparison of short-term oral impacts experienced by patients treated with Invisalign or conventional fixed orthodontic appliances. Medical Principles and Practice. 2019. Available online at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31842018/

Grünheid, T., Tasca, A. W., Kanyusik, J. S., Walters, S. A., Larson, B. E., Assessment of orthodontic treatment efficacy of Clarity Aligners using the Peer Assessment Rating index and the American Board of Orthodontics Cast-Radiograph Evaluation; Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop, 2022. DOI: 10.1016/j.ajodo.2021.07.023 Available online at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36100480/