In today’s digital age, orthodontic treatment has undergone a remarkable transformation in correcting malocclusions and dental misalignments. Among leading systems, SureSmile® Vs Invisalign® stand out as two top technologies, each offering unique benefits and treatment approaches for dentists and patients alike.
The differences between SureSmile vs Invisalign reflect how both systems leverage cutting-edge digital design and manufacturing technology to achieve unprecedented diagnostic precision and treatment outcomes, enabling orthodontists to select the optimal solution based on each patient’s unique biomechanical requirements and aesthetic goals.
What Is SureSmile®?
SureSmile® is an advanced digital orthodontic system that significantly enhances treatment accuracy and efficiency by combining 3D technology, robotics, and artificial intelligence. Developed by OraMetrix, this method is FDA-approved.
Key Advantages of SureSmile®
• High precision: Using 3D scanners and advanced software, tooth movements are planned with 0.1mm accuracy
• Shorter treatment: Studies show this system can reduce treatment time by up to 30% (American Journal of Orthodontics, 2020)
• Fewer appointments: Robotically crafted smart wires minimize office visits
• Predictable results: Dentists can show patients their final outcome before treatment begins
Primary Applications
• Correcting dental misalignments
• Treating Class I, II, and III malocclusions
• Cases requiring faster treatment
When considering SureSmile® Vs Invisalign®, it’s worth noting that SureSmile’s robotic wire-bending technology offers unique advantages for complex cases needing precise force control.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a modern and popular method for correcting teeth misalignment without using traditional metal braces. Developed by Align Technology, this system uses a series of clear, removable aligners to move teeth into position gradually.
Key Features of Invisalign
• Invisible appearance: The clear aligners are made from medical-grade polycarbonate and are virtually undetectable when worn.
• Removability: Patients can take out the aligners for eating, brushing, and flossing.
• Enhanced comfort: With no wires or brackets, there’s less irritation to gums and mouth tissues.
• Accurate outcome prediction: Using ClinCheck® technology, patients can see their final results before treatment begins.
Primary Applications
• Closing gaps between teeth (diastema)
• Correcting crossbites, overbites, and underbites
• Cases where patients prefer a less noticeable treatment
“ While patients with simple malocclusions require 4.8 months longer treatment times with aligners than traditional braces, the treatment and 6-month posttreatment occlusal outcomes are similar. “
When comparing SureSmile® Vs Invisalign®, it’s important to note that Invisalign offers unique advantages for patients prioritizing discretion and removability, while SureSmile excels in complex cases requiring precise force control.
How Do SureSmile and Invisalign Work?
At D’Amico Dental Care (Serving Watertown & Wayland), we specialize in Invisalign’s advanced 3D scanning and ClinCheck® technology to create your custom clear aligners – no metal brackets needed! You’ll wear each set for 1-2 weeks as they gently shift your teeth into place, removing them only for meals and brushing. While the aligners are nearly invisible, your commitment to wearing them 20-22 hours daily is key to achieving results typically in 6-18 months.
When considering SureSmile® Vs Invisalign®, it’s important to understand their different approaches. The key differences between SureSmile vs Invisalign become evident as SureSmile combines traditional braces with digital precision through AI-optimized 3D tooth movement planning and robot-crafted shape-memory archwires that deliver targeted forces for potentially faster treatment, unlike Invisalign’s removable aligners, making it better suited for complex cases despite requiring fixed appliance wear throughout therapy.
Key Differences Between SureSmile and Invisalign
When evaluating SureSmile® Vs Invisalign®, these practical differences matter most:
- Treatment System Type
• Invisalign: A clear aligner system that works without braces
• SureSmile: A smart brace system using robotic wires - Appearance & Aesthetics
• Invisalign: Completely invisible and nearly undetectable
• SureSmile: Features visible braces (though smaller than traditional ones) - Treatment Duration
• Invisalign: Typically takes 12-18 months
• SureSmile: Often 30% faster (8-14 months) - Precision & Tooth Movement Control
• SureSmile: Controls movements with 0.1mm precision
• Invisalign: Ideal for simple to moderate cases - Food Restrictions
• Invisalign: No dietary limits (removable)
• SureSmile: Requires avoiding hard/sticky foods - Treatment Cost
• Invisalign: Typically 10-15% more affordable
• SureSmile: Higher cost due to advanced technology
Treatment Time: Which Is Faster?
The differences between SureSmile vs Invisalign include treatment duration, with studies showing SureSmile typically completes cases in 8-14 months compared to Invisalign’s 12-18 month average, a disparity stemming from SureSmile’s robotic precision wires and AI-driven 3D movement planning that apply biomechanically optimized forces, which elicit faster periodontal tissue response while minimizing clinical variability.
However, in simple cases like closing gaps between teeth, the time difference between the two systems might not be very noticeable. Also, for patients who aren’t committed to wearing their Invisalign® aligners enough (less than 20 hours per day), treatment might take even longer than usual.
When considering SureSmile® Vs Invisalign®, it’s important to choose the faster method based on each patient’s specific circumstances, including age, problem severity, and cooperation level. In any case, consulting with an orthodontic specialist can help recommend the best option for each individual’s needs.
Who Should Choose SureSmile or Invisalign?
At D’Amico Dental Care, we help you select the ideal clear aligner system:
SureSmile® works best for:
✓ Patients needing faster results (30-40% quicker treatment)
✓ Complex cases like severe overbites or crossbites
✓ Those who may struggle with strict aligner schedules
✓ Precise movements requiring robotic wire bending
Invisalign® excels in:
✓ Adults wanting nearly invisible treatment
✓ Mild-to-moderate cases like small gaps or crowding
✓ Committed patients who can wear aligners 20-22 hours/day
✓ Athletes need safer options for contact sports
When debating SureSmile® Vs Invisalign® for borderline cases, about 15-20% of patients qualify for both our Watertown and Wayland orthodontists to use 3D scans to recommend their perfect match.
FAQ
- What technology is used in these two methods?
SureSmile®:
- Robotic and AI-assisted orthodontic wire fabrication
- High-precision 3D digital scanning
- Computer-designed tooth movement
- Shape memory alloy wires
Invisalign:
- Clear, removable aligner system
- Advanced ClinCheck® software for treatment simulation
- 3D-printed serial aligners
- Medical-grade SmartTrack® thermoplastic material
- Which method offers faster treatment?
SureSmile®:
- 30-50% shorter treatment time compared to traditional braces
- Average 12-18 months for moderate cases
- Less than 6 months for minor corrections
Invisalign:
- Average 12-24 months, depending on complexity
- 4-6 months for very simple cases
- Requires aligner changes every 1-2 weeks
- What are the differences in comfort and appearance?
SureSmile®:
- Smaller brackets than traditional braces
- Smoother wires with less friction
- Visible but more aesthetically pleasing than conventional braces
Invisalign:
- Completely invisible when worn
- Removable for eating and brushing
- No irritation to gums or oral mucosa
- Which method is more suitable for specific issues?
SureSmile® for:
- Complex cases (e.g., severe crossbite)
- Canine tooth rotation
- Patients requiring precise root control
- Closing large gaps
Invisalign for:
- Mild to moderate crowding
- Small dental spacing
- Simple occlusion correction
- Patients prioritizing aesthetics
- What is the cost difference between the two?
The cost difference between SureSmile® and Invisalign depends on factors like insurance, additional expenses, and treatment benefits. SureSmile® generally has broader insurance coverage and fewer check-ups, while Invisalign’s coverage is more limited and may include replacement costs for lost aligners. SureSmile® offers shorter treatment times, whereas Invisalign focuses more on aesthetics during treatment.
- What is the daily care routine for each method?
SureSmile®:
- Special orthodontic toothbrush & floss
- Avoiding hard/sticky foods
- Monthly adjustment visits
- Using a mouthguard for sports
Invisalign:
- Daily aligner cleaning
- 20-22 hours/day wear
- Brushing after meals
- Storing in a dedicated case
- How to decide between these two methods?
Key decision factors:
- Complexity of dental issues
- Importance of aesthetics during treatment
- Commitment to consistent aligner use
- Sensitivity to metal brackets
- Desired treatment speed
- Budget & insurance coverage
- Which method delivers better outcomes?
SureSmile®:
- Higher precision in tooth movement
- Better force control
- More stable long-term results
- Ideal for complex cases
Invisalign:
- Aesthetic satisfaction during treatment
- Greater flexibility in daily life
- Less pain/discomfort
- Suitable for working adults
