Invisalign Lite vs Full - Cost, Differences

Invisalign is an orthodontic device that allows teens and adults to straighten their teeth in a more discreet way. The product offers a more appealing look than traditional braces. In addition, it is a removable aligner system so you can take the device out when you eat and brush your teeth. It allows you to maintain better oral health and consume all foods you like.

The clear aligners or Invisalign are available in a few different forms, including Invisalign Full (Invisalign Complete), Invisalign Lite, Invisalign i7 and Invisalign Teen. Invisalign Lite and full are the most popular types among adults.

This article looks at the differences between the two teeth straightening options, their pros and cons, prices, and how to choose one that suits you.

Invisalign Lite vs Full - What is the difference?

Here are some of the main differences between the original Invisalign treatment system (Invisalign Full) and Invisalign Lite.

• The number of aligners used throughout the orthodontic treatment. With Invisalign Lite treatment there are fewer aligners included than with full Invisalign treatment.
• Duration of the teeth straightening treatment. Invisalign Lite usually requires fewer aligners for correction, so the treatment process is usually shorter.
• Conditions that can be treated. The original Invisalign treatment system can correct more complex orthodontic issues while Invisalign Lite is suitable for fixing minor teeth misalignment.
• Costs. As you can guess, the treatment with Invisalign Full costs more than that with Invisalign Lite.

Invisalign Lite and full are both effective in correcting teeth and achieving a straighter smile. You should, however, receive a type of treatment that is suitable for your case in order to get the best results.

How does Invisalign Lite work?

Invisalign Lite system works similarly to the traditional Invisalign system or Invisalign Full, with the exception that it can only correct minor teeth and jaw misalignments. Keeping up with Invisalign Lite also means getting new removable aligners every few weeks. You will be instructed to wear them for at least 22 hours per day. In the same way as with regular aligners, you will need to remove the device while eating or cleaning your teeth.

The device applies pressure on the teeth to gradually move them to the proper position. When you use Invisalign Lite, you usually receive fewer sets of aligners - between 10 and 14. Because of that, the teeth straightening treatment is much faster and can be completed within six months to a year. 

A lot of patients are using this type of Invisalign before receiving cosmetic dentistry treatments. They choose Invisalign Lite to fix some minor problems, then undergo cosmetic procedures such as porcelain veneers, crowns, or teeth whitening to achieve a perfect smile.

Invisalign Lite: Pros and Cons

Here are some of the benefits of Invisalign Lite.

• It offers a shorter treatment time.
• It is a more cost-effective option.
• The aligners are not visible and can be easily removed when needed.
• It can effectively treat poor alignment, slight overcrowding and other minor orthodontic issues.

The downsides of Invisalign Lite are:

• This type of Invisalign is not suitable for patients with complex misaligned teeth or more severe alignment issues like extreme cases of overbite and other limitations 1.
• Incorrect use of the aligners may lead to unsatisfactory results.

How does Invisalign Full work?

The full or comprehensive version of Invisalign comes with about 20 or 30 sets of aligners. The number of Invisalign aligner trays you need will vary depending on your situation. The original Invisalign treatment system can correct more severe cases such as complex misaligned teeth or overcrowding.

It goes without saying that this treatment cannot be completed quickly. This requires many dental visits and more time. With regular Invisalign, patients usually undergo treatment for between one and a half and two years.

To achieve the best results, you should wear Invisalign for a minimum of 22 hours a day. The device will gradually move your teeth into the desired position. 

Regardless of the type of Invisalign you wear, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is equally important. You must properly clean your mouth and your aligners to avoid damaging your teeth.

Invisalign Full: Pros and Cons

Some of the benefits of Invisalign Full are as follows.

• It is a clear aligner that cannot be seen by others.
• It is very easy to take out the device when necessary.
• The full treatment can correct a variety of orthodontic problems, such as severe overcrowding and misalignment of the teeth.

This orthodontic treatment has some disadvantages and these include:

• The process of achieving desired results and completing the treatment is usually slightly longer.
• Treatment cost tends to be higher compared to other orthodontic treatment options.

According to a prospective follow up study, the Invisalign treatment process has improved. The highest increase in accuracy was observed with a buccal-lingual crown tip, up to 56% accuracy. The lower overall accuracy level was also increased and it was at 46%, this was observed with rotation 2.

How much do Invisalign Full and Invisalign Lite cost?

Cost of Invisalign in the US

• The cost of Invisalign Lite treatment in the United States ranges between $3500 to $5500.
• Invisalign Full is a bit more expensive, costing around $4000 to $7000.

These prices usually include the first appointment and treatment plan creation, possible follow-ups, and a final consultation and touch-ups.

Most dental insurance plans in the USA provide coverages for Invisalign aligners. Based on your insurance policy, you might be able to claim around half of the overall cost. Additionally, you may be able to use funds like an HSA or FSA to save on your teeth straightening treatment. Many dental providers also accept monthly payment plans, which can be an easy and convenient way to pay for orthodontic treatment.

Invisalign Lite vs Full: Which do you need?

Are you a good candidate for Invisalign Lite? Or maybe you need to undergo full Invisalign treatment? It all depends on the complexity of your problem. Invisalign Lite works great in treating minor orthodontic issues. Full Invisalign treatment is better suited to patients with more severe problems.

The best way to determine which type of clear aligners is right for you is to have a consultation with an orthodontist. The dentist will perform a complete oral examination, take dental X-rays and a 3D scan in order to create the best treatment plan for you.

Will you need to wear a retainer after Invisalign?

Using retainers after orthodontic treatment is essential because they allow you to maintain your perfectly aligned set of teeth. 

Your teeth are constantly moving when you are wearing braces or aligners. Once your pearly whites are put into correct positions you need to allow the bone to remodel and sturdy up around those newly moved teeth. Thus, wearing retainers after your clear aligner or braces are removed is crucial. 

According to your case, your orthodontist may recommend using the devices for several months or even years.

• 1. https://www.cda-adc.ca/jcda/vol-73/issue-3/263.pdf
• 2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32620479/