Key Takeaways
- SureSmile and Invisalign use clear, removable trays made from 3D scans of your teeth.
- Treatment timelines and the number of aligners included vary for both systems depending on your specific case.
- SureSmile tends to cost less upfront, while Invisalign has been used for a wider range of orthodontic cases.
- Both options require a retainer after treatment to help your teeth hold their new position.
- A dentist in Calgary can help you figure out which option suits your smile.
You’ve decided clear aligners are the direction you want to go. No metal brackets, no wires, just a more discreet way to shift your teeth. But then you hear about the two different options, and suddenly the decision feels more complicated than you expected.
SureSmile and Invisalign are two clear aligner systems that use removable plastic trays to shift your teeth. These systems differ in materials, treatment coverage length, and cost, which means one may suit your situation better than the other. If you’re exploring your options, learning more about clear aligners can help you feel more confident going into a consultation.
What SureSmile & Invisalign Actually Are
For both systems, a dental team takes a 3D scan of your teeth, designs a series of custom trays, and you wear each set long enough to move your teeth gradually toward the desired position.
To get results, you have to wear the trays 20 to 22 hours a day. You take them out to eat or drink anything other than water, as well as when you’re brushing your teeth. Consistent wear is what causes your teeth to shift, so the trays need to stay in almost all the time.
Differences Between SureSmile & Invisalign
Materials & Technology
The trays look similar, but the plastic is different. Invisalign uses a material called SmartTrack, while SureSmile uses Essix ACE plastic. Both materials are clear and comfortable to wear.
The 3D scanning tools used for each system also differ. However, both produce accurate digital maps of your teeth.
Treatment Length & Aligner Coverage
Treatment timelines and the number of aligners needed vary depending on the complexity of your case for both SureSmile and Invisalign. Some patients may require refinements or additional trays throughout treatment.
SureSmile retainers are typically recommended for replacement every 2 years. Invisalign patients are often provided multiple sets of retainers that are generally replaced every 6 months.
How long your treatment actually takes depends on how much movement your teeth need, not just which system you choose.
What Each Option Works Well For
Invisalign has been used for a wider range of cases, from minor crowding to more complex bite and alignment issues. The variety of tray options available can make it a flexible choice when more extensive tooth movement is needed.
SureSmile works well for mild to moderate alignment needs. If your teeth are mostly in good shape and you’re looking to address some crowding or spacing without a lengthy treatment timeline, it can be a solid fit. You can also read about common bite problems to get a better sense of where your situation might fall.
The most reliable way to know which one suits your teeth is to talk to a dentist who can assess your smile and recommend the most appropriate treatment approach.
Cost Comparison: SureSmile vs. Invisalign
Typical Price Ranges
At Pinnacle Dental, SureSmile treatment fees typically range from $2,500 to $6,500, depending on the complexity of your case and treatment length.
Invisalign treatment costs can vary significantly depending on the provider and the complexity of treatment needed, and typically fall between $3,000 and $8,000.
SureSmile tends to offer a lower cost, which can make it an appealing option if your alignment needs are on the simpler side.
What Affects the Final Cost
No two treatments are priced exactly the same. A few factors shape what you end up paying:
- How complex your alignment needs are
- How long your treatment is expected to take
- Your dental insurance plan covers orthodontic treatment
It’s worth checking your coverage before you decide. Some plans contribute to clear aligner treatment, which can bring the out-of-pocket cost down for either option. If you’re covered under the Canadian Dental Care Plan, it’s worth confirming whether any orthodontic benefits apply to your situation.
What to Expect After Treatment
Finishing your aligner treatment isn’t the last step. After your trays do their job, your teeth need time to settle into their new positions. Without something holding them in place, they can drift back.
Both SureSmile and Invisalign require a retainer once treatment wraps up. Wearing your retainer as directed is what helps your results hold over time.
Your dental team will walk you through the details. Keeping up with regular dental cleanings, both during and after treatment, plays a role in keeping your teeth healthy while they settle.
At Pinnacle Dental, we help patients understand how SureSmile compares to other clear aligner systems, so they can make an informed decision about their smile. If you’re interested in learning whether SureSmile is right for your teeth, book a consultation with a dentist in Calgary today.
