2U Smiles vs Smile Perfect

Continued from above...

Braces are fixed in place, meaning you won't need to worry about wearing them as instructed - but they're also more noticeable, and they're not the easiest to keep clean (which can lead to more cavities down the road). Aligners, on the other hand, work best for mild to moderate corrections. Their removability makes it easy for you to maintain good oral hygiene, but they require commitment: you'll need to wear the daytime kind for 20-22 hours a day for the best results (or 8-10 hours for the nighttime option, with a longer total application time). Fortunately, if you're disciplined, aligners can be just as effective as braces for many cases.

When it comes to aligners, you have two main options: traditional in-office procedures like Invisalign, and direct-to-consumer (DTC) options that let you manage the process from home. Invisalign is often administered by orthodontists, who monitor your progress closely with regular check-ins. This professional oversight can be a comfort, especially for more complex cases or if you're concerned about your results. However, it also comes at a much higher price point: expect to pay at least $5,000.

In contrast, at-home aligner providers cut out the office visits. You start by completing a mail-in impression kit or visiting a scan location, and everything else - your plan, progress checks, and customer support - happens remotely. This DIY approach is usually more affordable and convenient, making it a great option for busy people who want to save money. While you won't have the same in-person care as with Invisalign, all reputable at-home aligner companies have licensed dental professionals reviewing your case and providing support.

If you're considering teeth aligners, here are five criteria to help you choose the right provider:

• Cost. Compare the price of aligners, including additional costs like retainers, whitening kits, and impression kits.
• Timeline. Check how long the typical process takes and whether it fits your schedule and goals. Choose a company that doesn't overpromise how quickly they can line up your smile.
• Flexibility and support. Does the provider offer financing options, refunds if you're not a candidate, and easy ways to get help during your process?
• Guarantees. Some teeth aligner providers promote their "guarantee”, but the only thing they're promising is to refund your money if your impression kit doesn't make you look like a suitable candidate. Some of the best companies, on the other hand, promise to stick with you until your smile is exactly how you've pictured it - including any needed refinements as part of your cost.
• Reputation. Look for reviews and ratings, particularly about customer service, results, and support during your process. This is probably the most important factor, besides price, when choosing which teeth aligners to go with. Make sure that the company has lots of (verified and legitimate) positive feedback from happy clients.

Teeth aligners can be a life-changing solution for improving your smile. To help you get the right ones, the experts at Top Consumer Reviews have evaluated and ranked some of today's biggest names in the industry. With so many choices, there's likely a perfect fit for you!