Clarity Aligners Now Available at Gentle Dental

Clarity Aligners: The 3M alternative to Invisalign now at Gentle Dental

Clarity Aligners are now available at our Gentle Dental clinic.  

What are Clarity Aligners and how do they work?

Clarity aligners are a type of clear aligner treatment. They’re an alternative to traditional braces. Instead of wires and brackets they use removable trays, moulded to the shape of your teeth, to correct misalignments or crooked teeth. 

Are Clarity Aligners an alternative to Invisalign?

Yes! While Invisalign is the most well-known provider of clear aligners there are many alternatives. Clarity Aligners are the brainchild of 3M and work in a similar way to Invisalign. They also come with their own set of advantages.

What’s similar:

• Both treatments use 3D computer imaging to scan your mouth
• Both use a digital simulation to show how your teeth will move into place during treatment
• Both treatments consist of several trays of aligners swapped out every few weeks
• Both treatments require users to wear their trays for 20-22 hours a day

What’s different

• Clarity Aligners come in two material thicknesses – one for initial movements and one for complex movements
• Clarity Aligners are made from matte plastic that are more stain-resistant than Invisalign
• Clarity Aligners can be cut scalloped or straight for better discretion
• In some cases, the attachments can be fixed to the back of the teeth for better discretion
• Clarity’s attachments are pre-loaded and transferred from aligner to tooth

Are Clarity Aligners a similar price to Invisalign?

For both Clarity Aligners and Invisalign the cost will differ based on how complex your bite or alignment issue is. Clarity Aligners are cheaper – they often work out to be around 10%-20% less than Invisalign for the same treatment. 

Without knowing what type of treatment, you need (not everyone’s a candidate for clear aligners) or how many trays you’ll need, it’s hard to say how much your individual treatment will cost. 

How long do Clarity Aligners take to work?

The length of your treatment will differ from person to person. Both Invisalign and Clarity Aligners take the same amount of time:

• Minor corrections: 6-8 months
• Moderate corrections: 12 – 18 months
• Complex corrections: 18-24+ months

What is different is how long it takes to prep your teeth for your first set of trays. Aligner attachments act like little hooks, keeping the trays in place during the day. With Invisalign, an orthodontist set each attachment by hand. With Clarity Aligner’s your first set of trays come with the 3D attachments set inside. The attachments can transfer from aligner to tooth – a process that’s about ten minutes faster than hand setting them.

Do Clarity Aligners work as well as Invisalign?

Yes. Both systems provide a proven, safe and effective way of straightening your smile. The differences between Invisalign and Clarity come down to materials, attachment systems and price – not effectiveness. If your orthodontist recommends Clarity Aligners you can rest easy knowing that they’ve been used effectively for years with great results.

What happens at my Clarity Aligner appointment?

Our orthodontist will perform a comprehensive exam, which usually includes digital 3D scans and X-rays to create a precise map of your current bite. We can show you a virtual preview of how your teeth will shift week-by-week throughout your treatment. You’ll have the chance to discuss your specific goals, find out exactly how many trays you’ll need, and receive a cost breakdown of treatment.  

Are Clarity aligners right for you?

Choosing between Invisalign and Clarity Aligners often comes down to the details rather than the final results. Both systems are perfectly capable of transforming your smile. Clarity aligners do have some advantages. If you are looking for aligners that are more stain-resistant, a slightly faster initial fitting appointment, and lower price point, 3M Clarity Aligners are a great choice.

You can get started with an initial consultation at Gentle Dental. Book now.