Invisalign vs Other Aligners, Why Cheap Aligners May End Up Costing More!
The Reality of Non-Invisalign Aligners: Lessons from Experience
Hi, I’m Dr. Bharath Ramesh, an orthodontist practicing since 2013 and a Certified Invisalign Provider. Before transitioning exclusively to Invisalign, I worked with several other aligner brands, including ClearPath and a few Indian companies. Through this journey, I learned firsthand the risks and challenges of generic aligners—and why Invisalign remains unmatched.
1) The Shocking Collapse of a Aligner Company
In 2015, I had several patients undergoing treatment with an aligner company based in Malaysia. Everything seemed fine until, out of the blue, the company shut down. With no warning, my patients were left stranded mid-treatment, and I had to scramble to find alternative solutions.
Imagine this: You invest months into treatment, only to be left without proper aligners, no customer support, and no way to continue. It was a nightmare—not just for me as an orthodontist, but for my patients who had trusted the process.
This was a crucial turning point. I realised that aligners are not just about the plastic trays; they’re about long-term support, research, and reliability. That’s when I knew I had to be extremely selective about which aligner brand I recommended.
Why I think Invisalign Won’t Let You Down
Unlike smaller companies that come and go, Invisalign has stood the test of time for over 25 years. Backed by Align Technology, Invisalign has a global presence, ensuring that your treatment remains secure, predictable, and supported no matter what.
Here’s why Invisalign is here to stay:
25+ Years of Research & Development – A brand with deep investment in orthodontic innovation.
Over 14 Million Smiles Transformed – Proven success worldwide.
1,000+ Patents – Proprietary technology that can’t be copied.
Global Presence & Stability – Ensuring your treatment is never left unfinished.
2) Problems I faced of supplying Inferior Materials: Why Cheap Aligners Don’t Measure Up
One of the biggest problems with non-Invisalign aligners is the quality of materials used. Many cheaper brands rely on basic plastic, which lacks the flexibility and precision needed for effective tooth movement.
Poorly fitting aligners can lead to discomfort, inefficient force application, and even unintended shifts in teeth alignment.
Invisalign, on the other hand, uses SmartTrack® Material, a patented thermoplastic that ensures a snug fit, gentle yet effective force, and better control over tooth movements.
3) The Risks of Lack of Expert Supervision
Many generic aligner brands follow a remote treatment model, where patients receive their trays in the mail and are expected to manage the process themselves. While this may seem convenient, it carries significant risks. Without an orthodontist overseeing the treatment, patients may not realize if their teeth are shifting incorrectly or if complications arise. Incorrect aligner fit, poor tracking, and unintended bite issues can develop without expert intervention.
Invisalign, on the other hand, ensures every step of the treatment is guided by a certified provider, guaranteeing safety and optimal results.
4) Unreliable Treatment Planning: The Importance of AI-Driven Precision
One of the biggest differences between Invisalign and generic aligners is the treatment planning process. Invisalign uses ClinCheck® Technology, an advanced AI-driven software that maps out the entire smile transformation before treatment begins.
This ensures every movement is precise, predictable, and effective. Generic aligner brands often rely on basic planning methods, leading to errors in tooth movement and less-than-ideal outcomes. Without the precision of ClinCheck®, many patients using cheaper aligners end up with misaligned bites or unsatisfactory results, requiring costly corrections later on.
5) Higher Long-Term Costs: The Hidden Price of Cheap Aligners
Many patients choose generic aligners thinking they will save money, only to realize later that fixing the damage costs far more. When an aligner system fails due to poor planning, weak materials, or lack of supervision, patients often have to start their treatment over—this time with Invisalign.( this has happens more often than you think)
The additional cost of re-treatment, along with the frustration and time wasted, makes opting for cheap aligners a costly mistake. Investing in Invisalign from the start means avoiding these risks and ensuring a smooth, reliable treatment process with long-lasting results.
6) Lack of Research & Development: Why Innovation Matters
Orthodontics is a science that evolves with research and technology. Invisalign has invested decades into refining its system, ensuring that patients receive the most effective and comfortable treatment possible.
Many generic aligners, however, lack any meaningful research behind their design. They rely on outdated methods and minimal technological advancements, leading to unpredictable and often unsatisfactory results. Choosing an aligner brand without a strong foundation in research is a gamble—one that rarely pays off.
Why Invisalign Is the Gold Standard
Invisalign isn’t just another aligner—it’s a sophisticated system designed for safe, predictable, and expert-guided treatment. Here’s what sets it apart:
SmartTrack® Material – Invisalign aligners are made from a proprietary plastic that ensures better fit, comfort, and precision.
ClinCheck® Technology – Invisalign’s 3D software lets patients see their smile transformation before treatment even begins.
Certified Providers – Only orthodontists with specialized training can offer Invisalign, ensuring expert guidance throughout treatment.
Regular Monitoring – Unlike DIY aligners, Invisalign treatment is actively monitored to ensure the best results.
Why we @ Aura Dentistry Recommends Invisalign
At Aura Dentistry, we believe that cutting corners on orthodontic care is never worth the risk. That’s why we recommend Invisalign for our patients in Chromepet and Urapakkam.
by Dr. Bharath Ramesh, MDS