Clear Aligners 101: What to Know About Invisalign®, ClearCorrect®, and More

Clear aligners have transformed orthodontics, offering a discreet, comfortable, and removable alternative to metal braces. Whether you’ve seen someone pop them out before lunch or noticed a subtle smile transformation over time, chances are you’ve heard of Invisalign®—the world’s most well-known clear aligner brand.

But Invisalign isn’t the only option. Competitors like ClearCorrect®, SureSmile®, and Candid® have entered the market with different approaches to convenience, price, and treatment delivery. That means more choices for patients, but also more confusion about which aligner is the best fit.

This guide explains clear aligners, how they work, and how Invisalign compares to other top brands. Whether you’re just starting your research or weighing your options after a consultation, we’ll help you understand the clear aligner landscape and what to expect from treatment.

What Are Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are custom-made, transparent trays designed to gradually straighten your teeth without the use of brackets and wires found in traditional braces. Worn over your teeth like thin mouthguards, each aligner tray applies gentle pressure to guide your teeth into better alignment over time.

Treatment typically involves a series of trays, each slightly different than the last. You’ll wear each one for 1–2 weeks before switching to the next, steadily progressing toward your ideal smile.

What sets clear aligners apart isn’t just their discreet look—it’s their flexibility. You can remove them to eat, brush, floss, or attend a special event without anyone noticing. And because they’re smooth and snug-fitting, most people find them more comfortable than braces.

This modern approach to orthodontics isn’t just about aesthetics. Straighter teeth can also mean healthier gums, easier cleaning, and fewer long-term dental issues. From teens to adults, clear aligners have become the go-to choice for people looking to improve their smile without disrupting their lifestyle.

In-Office vs. At-Home Aligners: What’s the Difference?

Today, clear aligner treatment comes in two main formats: in-office and at-home. Both use similar technology—a series of plastic trays to move teeth—but differ in how the treatment is managed.

• In-office aligners, such as Invisalign®, are prescribed and monitored by a licensed dentist or orthodontist. You’ll visit the office for scans, fittings, and check-ins to ensure progress is on track.
• At-home aligners like AlignerCo® are designed for convenience. You take your impressions at home, receive trays by mail, and check in remotely with a dental team, often via an app or email.

Candid® offers a hybrid approach—combining in-person scans with remote monitoring—to bridge the gap between complete at-home systems and traditional in-office models.

Each model has its pros and cons, and we’ll break down the differences later in this guide. For now, just know that the right option depends on your alignment needs, lifestyle, and the level of professional oversight you want.

Invisalign®: The Original Clear Aligner

When most people think of clear aligners, they think of Invisalign—and for good reason. As the first major brand to introduce removable, nearly invisible aligners in the late 1990s, Invisalign® set the standard for modern orthodontic care. Since then, it has helped over 14 million people worldwide achieve straighter smiles.

What makes Invisalign® different isn’t just name recognition—it’s the technology behind the clear aligners. Invisalign uses SmartTrack® material, designed for optimal comfort and predictable tooth movement. The system also includes advanced 3D imaging, personalized treatment planning, and attachments (small, tooth-colored shapes placed on your teeth) to help guide more complex movements.

Another key differentiator is that a licensed dental professional always supervises Invisalign®. That means you’ll have regular in-person check-ins, adjustments as needed, and a tailored approach that evolves with your treatment progress.

Whether you’re dealing with mild crowding or more complex bite issues, Invisalign® offers a flexible, clinically proven solution with a trusted track record. It’s the brand many dentists and orthodontists recommend—the one most patients use as a baseline when comparing other options.

ClearCorrect®, SureSmile®, and Other Competitors

While Invisalign® may be the most recognized name in the clear aligner space, it’s not the only one. Over the past decade, several other brands have entered the market, each with its approach to treatment, technology, and pricing.

ClearCorrect®, for example, is a provider-supervised aligner system similar to Invisalign. Dentists and orthodontists often use it as a lower-cost alternative and offer flexible treatment plans based on the complexity of your case. While it doesn’t have the same proprietary materials or global reach as Invisalign, it can be a strong choice for mild to moderate alignment issues.

SureSmile® also partners with dental professionals and is known for its digital precision. It uses advanced imaging and planning software to design custom aligners for everything from spacing and crowding to bite correction. Some providers prefer SureSmile for its adaptability and the ability to make refinements along the way.

Then there are at-home aligner brands like AlignerCo®, which appeal to adults seeking convenience and affordability. These brands typically start with a DIY impression kit, followed by remote monitoring through photos and apps. They’re best suited for minor cosmetic adjustments, not complex dental issues.

Candid® offers a unique hybrid model that blends the convenience of remote care with the oversight of dental professionals. Patients begin with a diagnostic scan at a Candid Studio or partner dentist, and treatment is then managed remotely by an orthodontist. This model provides more supervision than fully at-home systems while remaining more convenient than traditional in-office options.

While these alternatives may fit certain needs or budgets, Invisalign® remains the most versatile and widely trusted option. It’s backed by decades of research, extensive clinical use, and the assurance of in-person dental care—factors that make a big difference in achieving predictable, long-lasting results.

Who’s a Good Candidate for Clear Aligners?

Clear aligners are designed for people who want a straighter smile without the hassle of braces, but not everyone is a perfect fit. The best candidates typically fall into one of these categories:

• Teens and adults with fully developed teeth
• Mild to moderate crowding or spacing
  Minor bite issues, such as slight overbite, underbite, or crossbite

If your dental goals involve small shifts or cosmetic improvements, clear aligners—especially systems like Invisalign—can be an ideal solution. Invisalign’s more advanced technology even makes it a good choice for certain complex cases that other brands can’t handle.

That said, clear aligners aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. People with severe alignment issues, jaw development concerns, or complex bite corrections may need traditional braces or a hybrid treatment plan. The same goes for anyone with active gum disease or unresolved dental problems—those need to be addressed first.

Before starting any treatment, your provider will evaluate your teeth and bite to determine if aligners are a good fit for you. Invisalign providers, in particular, use detailed 3D scans and modeling to assess candidacy and tailor your treatment plan accordingly.

What the Clear Aligner Journey Looks Like

While every brand has its own twist on treatment, most clear aligner journeys follow a similar path, whether you’re working with Invisalign® in a dental office or using a remote brand like AlignerCo®.

Here’s a look at the general process:

1. Initial Assessment or Impressions: Your treatment begins with a consultation. For in-office systems like Invisalign, this usually includes digital scans or X-rays taken by a provider. With at-home brands, you’ll typically use a mail-in impression kit or sometimes visit a retail location for scanning. The goal is to create a detailed map of your teeth.
2. Personalized Treatment Plan: Once your scans or impressions are reviewed, your provider (or the brand’s dental team) creates a custom plan. Many brands provide a digital preview of how your teeth will shift over time so you can see your projected results before treatment begins.
3. Wearing Your Aligners: You’ll receive a series of clear aligners—each slightly different than the last. Most people wear them 20–22 hours a day, only removing them to eat, drink (except water), or brush and floss. Each aligner is typically worn for 1 to 2 weeks before switching to the next set.
4. Monitoring Progress: With in-office systems like Invisalign, you’ll have scheduled appointments to check your progress. At-home brands rely on photo submissions or app check-ins instead. These checkpoints help ensure everything is moving as planned.
5. Maintaining Your Results: Once your treatment is complete, you’ll transition to retainers to keep your teeth from shifting back. Retainers are usually worn at night and are an essential part of maintaining your new smile in the long term.

Whether you’re doing it from your couch or in a dental chair, clear aligner treatment is designed to be simple, flexible, and customized to your unique smile goals.

What It’s Really Like to Wear Clear Aligners

Wearing clear aligners is simple, but it does require a few daily adjustments.

• Dining out or traveling? Bring your case and a toothbrush. Most aligner wearers get used to excusing themselves to pop trays out before meals—it quickly becomes second nature.
• Expect to clean your aligners at least twice a day to avoid buildup or staining. A quick rinse and gentle brush with clear soap usually does the trick.
• Some users report a slight lisp or pressure feeling during the first few days of a new tray. That usually fades as your mouth adjusts.

Aligners are low-maintenance compared to braces, but success depends on consistency. The more closely you stick to the routine, the smoother your treatment will be.

Clear Aligners vs. Braces: What’s the Real Difference?

Braces and clear aligners both straighten teeth, but they go about it in very different ways. Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into place. Clear aligners, on the other hand, rely on a series of removable plastic trays custom-fit to your smile.

So what does that mean for your day-to-day life?

Here are some key differences:

• Visibility: Clear aligners like Invisalign® are nearly invisible when worn. Braces are more noticeable, even with ceramic or tooth-colored options.
• Comfort: Aligners are smooth and less likely to irritate your cheeks or gums. Braces can cause occasional discomfort from wire adjustments or poking hardware.
• Removability: You can take clear aligners out to eat, drink, brush, and floss—no food restrictions or floss threaders required.
• Oral Hygiene: Since aligners are removable, it’s easier to maintain your brushing and flossing habits without having to navigate around wires.
• Office Visits: Braces require regular in-office adjustments. With aligners, especially at-home options, monitoring can be done digitally, although in-person systems like Invisalign still include scheduled check-ins.

That said, braces still have an essential place in orthodontics. They’re often the best option for complex cases involving severe crowding, bite corrections, or jaw alignment. But for many teens and adults with mild to moderate alignment issues, clear aligners deliver similar results with more flexibility and less disruption.

How to Choose the Right Aligner System

With so many brands on the market, choosing the right clear aligner system can feel overwhelming. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it depends on your goals, your lifestyle, and the complexity of your case.

Here are a few key factors to consider:

• Complexity of Treatment: If you have moderate to severe alignment issues or bite problems, in-office systems like Invisalign® are likely your best option. They offer hands-on care from a licensed dental provider and can handle a broader range of cases thanks to attachments and precision planning.
• Lifestyle Preferences: If you’re tech-savvy, highly self-disciplined, and looking for a convenient solution that fits around a busy schedule, a remote aligner brand like AlignerCo® might appeal to you. Just know that at-home models are best for minor cosmetic fixes, not major movement.
• Level of Support: Some people want the reassurance of regular in-person check-ins. Others are comfortable with digital monitoring and virtual dental support. Decide what kind of guidance you want throughout your treatment.
• Treatment Speed and Flexibility: Some brands offer faster treatment timelines or options, such as nighttime-only wear. But faster isn’t always better—especially if it compromises long-term stability. Choose a system based on effectiveness, not just speed.
• Provider Trust and Reputation: Invisalign has the longest track record, the largest provider network, and is often recommended by dental professionals. If you want clinical oversight, proven results, and the flexibility to treat more complex issues, it’s a strong bet.

At the end of the day, the best aligner system is the one that fits your needs and that you can commit to wearing consistently.

Frequently Asked Questions About Clear Aligners and Invisalign®

Still narrowing down your options? Here are some of the most common questions people ask about clear aligners in general. 

Let’s take a closer look at what makes Invisalign® the most popular and trusted brand in the space.

1. What kinds of orthodontic issues can clear aligners treat?

Clear aligners can address a wide range of orthodontic concerns, including crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, and mild to moderate malocclusion. While they’re ideal for many cosmetic and functional issues, more complex cases may still require traditional braces or Invisalign Comprehensive.

2. How are aligner trays made and customized for my teeth?

Clear aligners are created using digital 3D scans or impressions of your teeth. These scans help design a custom treatment plan with a series of trays that guide your tooth movement in small, controlled steps, leading to a straighter smile over time.

3. What is the difference between removable aligners and traditional braces?

Unlike braces, which are fixed in place, removable aligners let you eat, drink, brush, and floss without restrictions. They’re more discreet and often more comfortable, but require discipline to wear for the recommended 20–22 hours per day.

4. Can clear aligners affect my gums or oral hygiene?

Clear aligners are designed to sit snugly on your teeth without irritating your gums, but proper hygiene is key. Be sure to brush and floss after every meal to prevent food and bacteria from trapping beneath the trays.

5. What makes Invisalign® different from other clear aligner brands?

The Invisalign system, developed by Align Technology, is an advanced clear aligner system backed by over two decades of research. It uses SmartTrack material and is guided by an Invisalign®-trained doctor, offering more personalized care and better results, especially for complex cases.

6. Is Invisalign® effective for moderate or complex cases?

Yes. Invisalign® is highly effective for moderate malocclusion and even more complex orthodontic cases thanks to in-office supervision, attachments, and precision digital planning. It’s a strong option when other aligners might fall short.

7. What are the different Invisalign® treatment options?

Invisalign offers several options based on case complexity:

• Invisalign Express® – best for mild cosmetic changes
• Invisalign Lite® – treats moderate issues with fewer trays
• Invisalign Comprehensive® – designed for complex cases with unlimited aligners. Your Invisalign® doctor prescribes each treatment option after a complete evaluation.

8. How long does Invisalign® treatment take?

Treatment times vary depending on the severity of your case. Some patients finish in as little as 6 months, while others may need up to 18 months or longer. Your doctor will outline your timeline during the planning phase.

9. Is Invisalign more predictable than other aligners?

Yes. Invisalign is known for more predictable tooth movements due to its SmartTrack material and precision-engineered treatment planning. When paired with a licensed provider, outcomes tend to be more consistent than many at-home aligner systems.

Where to Get Clear Aligners or Invisalign® Treatment

Once you’ve decided that clear aligners are correct for you, the next step is finding the right provider to guide your treatment. Whether you’re leaning toward Invisalign® for its trusted results and professional oversight or exploring other aligner brands, where you go matters just as much as what you choose.

A licensed dentist or orthodontist must prescribe Invisalign® and other in-office aligner systems. These professionals customize your treatment plan, monitor your progress, and help you avoid common pitfalls, especially if your case is more complex.

If you’re ready to move forward, Sunbit’s dental directory can help you connect with experienced providers in your area. You’ll find professionals who offer Invisalign®, as well as other clear aligner solutions, so you can compare options and choose what best fits your smile and lifestyle.

Browse trusted providers through the Sunbit dental directory and take the first step toward your aligner journey.