What sets Spark Aligners apart in the crowded field of orthodontic treatments? Are they a better choice compared to other aligner brands? And most importantly, do they stand as a formidable competitor against the market leader, Invisalign? These are some of the questions we aim to answer in our in-depth review.
We’ll explore the unique features, benefits, and limitations of clear aligners Spark, and examine how they differentiate themselves in the market. Additionally, we’ll assess who the ideal candidates for Spark Aligners are, analyze the expected duration of treatments, and break down the pricing structure.
This review is designed to arm you with all the necessary information, painting a clear picture of whether Spark Aligners align with your oral health objectives.
Who Is Behind Spark Aligners?
The Spark™ Clear Aligner System is developed and manufactured by Ormco Corporation, a company with over 60 years in the orthodontics industry. The company is known for its commitment to research and development, adhering to high manufacturing standards in the production and distribution of dental products.
Spark aligners were initially launched in Australia and New Zealand in 2017, followed by a commercial release in the United States in 2019. The product has since been adopted by practitioners in several European countries. To date, Spark Aligners have been used to treat thousands of patients and are currently available in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and China.
See also: Spark vs. Invisalign
PROs and CONs of Spark Aligners
PROs
- A doctor-directed approach
- Less noticeable than other aligner brands
- Smooth edges that offer better comfort than other brands
- Designed to be more resistant to staining
- Improved force retention and better contact with the tooth surface
- Available for adults and kids
- Wide range of treated malocclusions
CONs
- More expensive than some other aligner brands (price comparable to Invisalign)
- May not be suitable for severe malocclusions
- Follow-up visits to the orthodontist every 4 to 10 weeks
What Are Spark Aligners Made Of
Spark Clear Aligners are manufactured using TruGEN™ material, which is designed to offer comfort, clarity, and a lower likelihood of staining. The material is engineered to facilitate more efficient and effective tooth movement. TruGEN™ aims to provide sustained force retention and improved contact with the tooth surface. Spark Aligners are free from BPA, mercury, latex, and phthalates.
The TruGEN™ material comes in two varieties: TruGEN and TruGEN XR™, with primary differences in their flexibility. TruGEN XR is more rigid, indicated by a higher flexural modulus value, while TruGEN is comparatively more flexible. Both TruGEN and TruGEN XR maintain a uniform material thickness of .75mm (.030”). This diversity in material properties allows for tailored treatment approaches depending on the specific needs of the patient’s orthodontic case.
How Are Spark Aligners Different?
Spark Aligners distinguish themselves in the market through several key features. Firstly, they are more clear, nearly invisible, and reportedly less noticeable than competitors like Invisalign. The use of TruGEN™ and TruGEN™ XR materials in their construction is said to result in aligners with scalloped, smooth edges, claiming to offer better comfort compared to Invisalign.
Additionally, Spark Aligners are designed to be more resistant to staining from common beverages such as coffee, hot chocolate, or tea, compared to Invisalign.
Furthermore, Spark Aligners are specifically engineered for efficient tooth movement. The TruGEN™ and TruGEN™ XR materials are claimed to provide more advanced and sustained force retention and improved contact with the tooth surface.
Who Is a Candidate for Spark Aligners?
Spark clear aligners are available for adults, teens, and children, provided they have all their permanent teeth, including second molars.
Treatable Cases
Spark Clear Aligners can be used to treat various malocclusions, including:
- Open Bite: A condition with a vertical gap between the upper and lower teeth.
- Deep Bite: Characterized by an excessive overlap of the upper teeth over the lower teeth.
- Overbite (Class II): A condition where the upper teeth protrude significantly over the lower teeth.
- Underbite (Class III): Occurs when the lower teeth extend forward beyond the upper teeth.
- Crossbite: A misalignment where the upper and lower teeth do not align properly side to side.
- Crowding: A misalignment that occurs when there’s insufficient space in the mouth for all the teeth to fit normally.
- Spacing: Involves gaps or spaces between the teeth.
Patients who have severe periodontal disease are not suitable for Spark aligner treatment until their periodontal condition is effectively managed and under control.
Worth Knowing
In 2021, the Spark Clear Aligner System was granted FDA clearance for use in younger patients.
Types of Spark Aligners
Spark™ Aligners provide a trio of treatment options designed to accommodate various teeth straightening needs. These options include Spark™ 10, Spark™ 20, and Spark Advanced, each tailored to meet specific orthodontic requirements. The choice among these systems is determined based on the individual treatment needs and personal smile objectives of the patient, as assessed during the initial consultation. Spark does not offer night aligners; all their systems are designed for continuous wear.
Spark Advanced
The Spark Advanced aligner system is designed for the comprehensive treatment of complex malocclusions. It offers an unlimited number of aligners and allows for unlimited refinements to ensure thorough and precise treatment outcomes. This system can be used for either double or single-arch treatments, depending on the patient’s needs.
For effective results, patients are required to wear the aligners for 22 hours per day. Each set of aligners in the Spark Advanced series is typically worn for one week before progressing to the next set in the treatment plan.
See also: Review of SureSmile Clear Aligners
Spark™ 20
The Spark™ 20 aligner system is specifically designed for the treatment of moderate malocclusions. This system provides up to 20 aligners, along with the provision for up to 2 refinements to ensure effective and precise treatment outcomes. Suitable for both double and single-arch treatments, it offers flexibility based on individual patient requirements. For optimal effectiveness, the aligners should be worn for 22 hours per day. Each aligner in the Spark™ 20 series is intended to be worn for a period of one week before moving on to the next aligner in the sequence.
Spark™ 10
The Spark™ 10 aligner system is tailored to address relapse, prerestorative, and minor malocclusions. It offers a set of up to 10 aligners, with the option of 1 refinement to fine-tune the treatment outcome. This system is adaptable for both double and single arch treatments. For effective results, the aligners should be worn for 22 hours daily. Each aligner in the Spark™ 10 series is designed to be used for one week before transitioning to the next aligner in the treatment plan.
| Type of Aligners | Spark™ 10 | Advanced | Spark™ 20 |
| Malocclusions Treated | Relapse, Prerestorative, and minor malocclusions | Comprehensive treatment of complex malocclusions | Treatment of moderate malocclusions |
| Material Used | TruGEN™, TruGEN XR™ | TruGEN™, TruGEN XR™ | TruGEN™, TruGEN XR™ |
| Number of Aligners | Up to 10 | Unlimited | Up to 20 |
| Refinements | 1 | Unlimited | 2 |
| Arches | Double/Single | Double/Single | Double/Single |
| Wear Time | One week | One week | One week |
| Wear Time per Day | 22 hours | 22 hours | 22 hours |
What The Process Looks Like
Spark aligners, unlike some other aligner brands, are provided through a network of Spark-affiliated orthodontists, emphasizing a doctor-directed approach to orthodontic treatment.
Initial Consultation: The process of wearing Spark aligners involves a series of steps, beginning with an initial consultation with an orthodontist. This consultation includes an examination of the patient’s teeth and an introduction to what the Spark system can offer.
Digital Scan and Treatment Plan: Following the consultation, the orthodontist takes a digital scan of the patient’s smile. This scan is used to create a personalized treatment plan using Approver™ – Spark’s proprietary 3D software. This software generates a simulation of the patient’s teeth, including root positions, based on a library of past cases.
Custom Manufacturing of Aligners: The orthodontist uses the treatment plan to manufacture custom aligners for the patient. Depending on the treatment’s complexity, they may add attachments to certain teeth. These attachments help move the teeth in sync with the aligners.
Treatment Commencement: Treatment starts when the patient visits their orthodontist to pick up the first set of aligners. During this visit, the orthodontist checks the aligners’ fit, discusses the treatment process and schedule, and answers any questions. The patient then schedules to pick up subsequent sets of aligners.
Regular Wear and Schedule: Patients typically receive a new set of aligners every one to two weeks as part of their personalized treatment plan. They should wear their Spark aligners for 22 hours a day, removing them only for eating, drinking, or brushing.
Regular Orthodontist Visits: The treatment requires regular orthodontist visits, every 4 to 10 weeks. During these visits, the orthodontist monitors progress and makes any necessary adjustments.
Post-Treatment Retention: After completing the treatment with Spark aligners, the final stage involves wearing retainers. This is crucial for maintaining the alignment of the teeth and ensuring the long-term stability of the treatment results.
Worth Knowing
According to the article published in The Angle Orthodontist, aligner therapy requires significantly fewer visits to an orthodontist and a shorter treatment time than braces.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
The length of treatment with Spark aligners depends on the individual’s orthodontic requirements. While it can range broadly from 12 to 36 months, patients with mild malocclusions usually complete their treatment within a shorter timeframe, typically between 12 to 15 months.
How Much Do Spark Aligners Cost?
The cost of Spark clear aligners varies and is determined by the individual Spark provider, based on factors such as the complexity of the case and the length of the treatment. The price range typically falls between $3,500 and $8,000, which is comparable to Invisalign.
Included in your Spark treatment are services like a 3D scan during your initial consultation with a Spark orthodontist, custom-designed aligners, and ongoing virtual or in-person monitoring and consultations with your orthodontist throughout the treatment.
Can Spark Aligners Be Covered by Insurance?
Spark Aligners can potentially be covered by insurance if you have dental or orthodontic coverage. Coverage for a portion or the full cost of treatment, especially when consulting a specialist orthodontist, is likely under many insurance plans. However, as policies and coverage vary, it’s important to discuss financing options directly with your dental office.
Additionally, you can use Pre-Tax Dollars from a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to pay for clear aligner treatment. These accounts allow you to set aside money on a pre-tax basis for qualified medical expenses, which may include orthodontic treatments like Spark Aligners.
Furthermore, many orthodontists offer interest-free payment plans, allowing for the spreading out of payments over time to make treatment more affordable. For those facing financial hardship, programs like Smile for a Lifetime Foundation and the American Association of Orthodontists Donated Orthodontic Services Program offer deeply discounted or free treatment for eligible individuals, especially children from low-income families.
Does Spark Really Work? Customer Reviews
Customer feedback on Spark aligners is predominantly positive. Users commend their invisibility and effectiveness, with many noting their superiority in thinness and clarity compared to similar products like Invisalign. While some initial discomfort is reported, it tends to decrease over time. The aligners are also praised for their durability and resistance to staining. However, a few customers have experienced incomplete results, necessitating additional orthodontic treatments.
Verdict
Spark Clear Aligners emerge as a strong competitor in the clear aligner market. Backed by decades of orthodontic experience and utilizing advanced TruGENTM material, Spark offers comparable results to leading brands like Invisalign at an equivalent price point. Though minor limitations exist, the aligners effectively treat a wide range of malocclusions in adults and teens.
With benefits like improved comfort, stain resistance, tooth control, and nearly invisible aesthetics, Spark Aligners present an appealing choice for those seeking affordable, doctor-directed clear aligner therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Spark offer discounts?
Spark aligners themselves do not come with direct discounts, as their cost is determined by individual Spark providers based on factors like case complexity and treatment duration. However, if you need a discount, it is advisable to discuss this with your orthodontist. Many orthodontists offer interest-free payment plans, allowing patients to spread out payments over months or years, making treatment more affordable.
Additionally, for those facing financial hardship, there are options for financial assistance. Programs like the Smile for a Lifetime Foundation and the American Association of Orthodontists Donated Orthodontic Services Program provide deeply discounted or free treatment. These programs are particularly aimed at helping children from low-income families who lack insurance coverage or do not qualify for other state assistance.
Are Spark Aligners safe?
Yes, Spark Aligners are safe for use. They are FDA-approved for both adults and children. Additionally, the treatments are conducted by qualified orthodontists, ensuring professional oversight and adherence to safety standards.
Does Spark accept insurance?
Spark Aligners may be covered under dental or orthodontic insurance plans, especially when treated by a specialist orthodontist. It’s advisable to discuss insurance coverage and financing options directly with your dental office.
Does Spark fix an overbite?
Yes, Spark Aligners are capable of straightening a variety of moderate Class I and II malocclusions, including Overbite (Class II). However, to determine if you are a suitable candidate for Spark aligners, it’s recommended to consult with one of the Spark-affiliated orthodontists.
Are Spark aligners cheaper than Invisalign?
The cost of Spark aligners is generally comparable to that of Invisalign. Both brands’ prices can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the dental case and the length of the treatment.
Is Spark better than Invisalign?
Spark Aligners are designed with features that differentiate them from Invisalign, such as being more clear and less noticeable. They are constructed using TruGEN™ and TruGEN™ XR materials, which are said to offer better comfort due to their scalloped, smooth edges. Additionally, they are more resistant to staining and are engineered for efficient tooth movement with more advanced and sustained force retention.
Sources
Bruno, G., A Gracco, A., Barone, M., Mutinelli, S., De Stefani, A., Invisalign® vs. Spark™ Template: Which Is the Most Effective in the Attachment Bonding Procedure? A Randomized Controlled Trial; Appl. Sci. 2021; DOI: 10.3390/app11156716. Available online at: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/11/15/6716
Beldiman, M. A., Macovei, G., Zegan, G., Ioanid, N., Vasilache, C., Clear Aligners – Technologies and Materials; Romanian Journal of Medical and Dental Education, 2021. Available online at: https://journal.adre.ro/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/
Bruno, G., A Gracco, A., Barone, M., Mutinelli, S., De Stefani, A., Invisalign® vs. Spark™ Template: Which Is the Most Effective in the Attachment Bonding Procedure? A Randomized Controlled Trial; Appl. Sci. 2021; DOI: 10.3390/app11156716. Available online at: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/11/15/6716
Shipley T., Effects of high-frequency acceleration device on aligner treatment—a pilot study. Dent J (Basel). 2018;6(3):32. DOI: 10.3390/dj6030032. Available online at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30002296/