Petrous Orthodontics is dedicated to providing our patients with the best orthodontic treatment options, including clear aligners. We know there are mail-order options for clear aligners, but we want our patients to know that what they get may be different from what they expect. 

Smile Direct Club, once a popular mail-order supplier of clear aligners, has gone out of business after filing for bankruptcy. This has left many mail-order patients looking for treatment elsewhere. Companies like Byte and AlignerCo still offer clear aligners by mail. But do Byte clear aligners work the same as Invisalign? 

We want to delve into the Invisalign vs Byte debate and show why clear aligners from a local, professional dentist or orthodontist are the better option. We offer our patients clear aligners in Sterling Heights, Hazel Park, Warren, Royal Oak, and surrounding Michigan areas. Here’s why you should visit us first for the best treatment process for your orthodontic issues. 

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign clear aligners are made of a high-tech acrylic material custom-molded to your teeth. They are made to apply gentle pressure to move your teeth into their correct positions. Invisalign can correct many dental issues, including:

• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crossbite
• Gap teeth
• Crowded teeth

How Does Invisalign Work?

Patients receive several sets of upper and lower aligner trays. They wear each set for 1-2 weeks, then move to the next set in the sequence. Each set moves the teeth a certain way until they are where they should be. 

Over the years, Invisalign clear aligners have improved the ability to straighten teeth. They once were used for mild cases, but today’s Invisalign can improve oral health in more complex cases. Most patients wear clear aligners for an average of 9-15 months, but Invisalign can treat mild dental issues in as little as six months!

What Are Byte Aligners?

Byte is one of the companies that provides clear aligners treatment by mail. Instead of visiting a dental professional, patients visit a local center to get impressions of their teeth. If a local center isn’t available, patients must do the impressions themselves at home and mail them to Byte. 

Does Byte work? Clear aligners at home work for milder cases, but the more complex cases need the supervision of an orthodontist. Not everyone will be accepted for clear aligners at home, but Petrous Orthodontics is happy to speak to you about your dental issues, no matter how severe.

Mail-Order Aligners vs. Invisalign: Pros and Cons

Each treatment option offers clear aligner pros and cons. Both types can be effective. Both types have their conveniences and inconveniences. The costs may be closer than you think.

Cost

Most people think mail-order aligners are a lot cheaper than using a professional orthodontist. While they can be less expensive, it’s often by only a few hundred dollars, and some patients find the discount isn’t worth it in the long run. 

Impressions

Why is Invisalign better? For one thing, you don’t have to worry about making your own impressions. Petrous Orthodontics uses sophisticated imaging technology to create digital, 3D images of your teeth to produce Invisalign trays customized to your teeth. 

Loss or Damage

Patients may encounter issues during treatment. They may lose or damage a tray, or they may get a tray that needs a bit of adjustment. They can come into the office at Petrous Orthodontics to have those issues taken care of right away rather than having to wait for mail-order trays to be shipped to them.

Complexity of Treatment Issues

Finally, professional orthodontists can handle even the most severe dental issues, even if Invisalign isn’t the best option. A local orthodontist can provide a personal touch you won’t get with a mail-order company. 

Personal Touch

We get to know you and discuss what you want with your smile. We’re here if you ever have questions or concerns about your treatment. We encourage you throughout your treatment. Bottom line: We are here for you from start to finish. 

Invisalign in Royal Oak, MI

Treatment with clear aligners is a detailed process that requires a sophisticated plan to produce the best results. While mail-order services may be tempting because of their lower prices or lack of dental visits, they also lack the personal touch and encouragement you may need throughout your treatment. 

Petrous Orthodontics offers more than Invisalign. We offer the professionalism and attention to detail you need to achieve the smile of your dreams. Before going online for clear aligners, schedule an appointment with Petrous Orthodontics to see all we offer.