Invisalign vs Spark Aligners

Want a smile that can turn heads? Everyone has a unique smile, but sometimes you just need a little help getting a straighter, more aesthetic smile. Whether it's for health or purely for cosmetic reasons, using tooth aligners like Spark and Invisalign aligners might be the solution you're looking for. But which aligner is better?

Both Invisalign and Spark can assist in shifting your teeth into alignment, but there are a few key differences between the two that might influence your choice of which one to use. 

Here, we'll take an in-depth look at Invisalign and Spark aligners to help you know the difference between the two, and ultimately help you choose the right fit for you. 

What are aligners? 

Let's just cover the main reason aligners were made quickly. Aligners are generally clear, plastic moulds designed to fit over your teeth, and they gradually push them into alignment by exerting pressure. They're different to braces in that they don't use metal brackets or wires and they don't have to stay in permanently. 

When having your aligner made, it will be tailored specifically to fit your mouth. You'll need to wear it for a certain amount of time each day, generally a minimum of 22 hours. The beauty of these modern aligners is that you can take them out to eat or drink. 

Let's take a look at two very popular types of aligners: Invisalign and Spark.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign aligners are unique, transparent aligners designed by Invisalign to help correct misaligned teeth. Their clear, virtually invisible design sets them apart, making them a discreet alternative to traditional braces. 

The aligners are made with medical-grade plastics and are made to fit your mouth snugly to apply gentle pressure on your teeth. Gradually, the pressure will move your teeth into the desired position, according to the set of aligners. Every few weeks you'll receive a slightly adjusted mouthpiece which will continue to move your teeth into place. 

The mouthpiece is also removable, so Invisalign allows you to eat and drink what you want without a vigorous cleaning session and saves you the embarrassment of getting food stuck in your brackets. 

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign can fix a range of different problems. It works by moving your teeth over to by applying controlled pressure to different parts of your teeth during the procedure period. When you use Invisalign, there are a few aligners that you may need to wear for them to move your teeth successfully. This method allows for the aligner to control the pressure it applies in a more controlled way, reducing pain and making things more comfortable for you.  

Benefits of Invisalign

Invisalign has been around for a long time, with almost every dentist or orthodontist endorsing them. So, thanks to their glowing reputation, you know they are worth trying. Here are some ways Invisalign could benefit you:

• Invisalign is virtually invisible, so these aligners offer you a discreet alternative to metal braces
• Invisalign provides a snug fit, which helps you avoid the serious discomfort and cuts that people commonly experience with braces
• Invisalign is super easy to clean as they are removable, so they allow you to eat, brush your teeth, and floss without hassle
• You potentially have fewer dentist visits with some services offering remote check-ups
• Invisalign fittings can be done in the orthodontist's office 
• Invisalign treatments are monitored by orthodontists 

Downsides of Invisalign

With everything, we strive to give you the full picture so that you can decide on what treatment is best for you. With that said, Invisalign does have some downsides as well. These downsides include:

• Invisalign is not great for more serious alignment and dental issues
• You can only drink water with trays in but must remove it for other foods or drinks to avoid damage or stains
• Some treatments require visible, tooth-coloured attachments for more effective movement, meaning you'd need additional dentist appointments
• Requires regular checkups with your dentist or orthodontist

What are Spark Aligners

Spark aligners adopt a similar goal to Invisalign by offering you clear aligners that are nearly invisible. However, they're made with TruGEN™ which makes them clearer and more resistant to stains than the original Invisalign clear aligners. Their design also differs; with more polished and scalloped edges, the Spark aligners tend to offer a more comfortable treatment. 

How do Spark Aligners Work?

Like Invisalign, Spark aligners work by tightly fitting your teeth and gently exerting pressure on them, guiding them into the desired position. Spark aligners are also custom-designed for individuals. With the use of TruGEN™, they offer advanced and consistent force retention and better contact with your teeth, making them more efficient in moving your teeth and resulting in an effective treatment. 

Benefits of Spark Aligners

Clear aligners like the Spark aligner are fantastic alternatives to braces, offering a discreet solution to getting you that smile you've always wanted. For those of you considering spark aligners, here are some of their benefits:

• Spark aligners are extremely clear and almost invisible; therefore, they are incredibly discreet
• Spark aligners can be removed when it comes to eating or drinking for comfort and convenience
• Spark aligners offer more controlled pressure to your teeth, making the treatment more effective
• Spark aligners have softer, rounded edges that make them more comfortable to use
• Spark aligners are more resistant to stains

The downside of Spark Aligners

While Spark aligners have their benefits, they also have some downsides to them. Here are some downsides of using Spark Aligners:

• You will experience slight discomfort, especially when you first start using them
• Spark aligners can be expensive
• Depending on the course of the treatment, you may need to visit the dentist multiple times

Differences between Invisalign and Spark Clear Aligners

It's "clear" that both Invisalign and Spark Aligners are designed to gently correct your teeth, but there are slight differences in regards to their design and materials. 

• Materials - Spark uses its patented material, TruGEN™, while Invisalign uses SmartTrack

• Transparency and stain resistance - many users have noted that the TruGen™ material from Spark Clear Aligners is more transparent and stain-resistant than SmartTrack 
• Comfort - Spark Clear Aligners are considered slightly more comfortable than Invisalign due to the hand-trimmed and polished edges. 

Final Thoughts

Invisible aligners make a world of difference in your confidence, and they improve the overall experience of having crooked teeth fixed. However, with improvements in technology, clearer aligner options have become more readily available, making your choice more challenging. Invisalign broke the ice with clear aligners, but Spark has quickly gained popularity due to its innovative and efficient design. Whether you choose one or the other, you're taking one step closer to that smile you've always wanted.