Invisible aligners have transformed orthodontics by making discreet and aesthetic orthodontic treatment possible. But between Invisalign and Dr Smile, which one is best suited for your situation? Invisalign, an American pioneer, treats almost all malocclusions, even the most complex ones, thanks to its patented SmartTrack® material and regular in-office monitoring. Treatment typically lasts 12 to 18 months and costs between €1,800 and €6,500. Dr Smile, a German alternative, primarily addresses mild to moderate malpositions and implements digital monitoring. Its fast treatments (6 to 8 months) cost between €1,600 and €2,900.
In both cases, treatment success relies on the retention phase: a PEEK wire (medical polymer) ensures discretion and durability, guaranteeing that the achieved smile remains aligned long-term. This guide compares both solutions, explores alternatives, and answers essential questions.

Why discuss aligners in orthodontics?

Orthodontics has long been associated with visible and restrictive metal braces. Invisible aligners have changed the game: they allow for discreet tooth alignment correction, without interfering with social or professional life. In France, two solutions dominate the market: Invisalign, a global pioneer, and Dr Smile, a more recent and digitized German alternative.

This comparison analyzes their differences to help choose the most suitable solution for each profile and aesthetic goal.

What is an invisible aligner?

An invisible aligner is a transparent, removable tray that gradually moves teeth through gentle pressure. Worn 20 to 22 hours a day and replaced every one to two weeks, they offer a discreet alternative to metal braces. Today, the two most well-known solutions in France are Invisalign, a global pioneer, and Dr Smile, a German startup. They share the same principle but differ in technology, duration, monitoring, and cost.

Invisalign or Dr Smile: How to Choose?

With two invisible aligner offerings that seem similar at first glance, the decision between Invisalign or its German alternative will hinge on three main factors: clinical complexity, available budget, and monitoring method.

1. Case Complexity
Before making a decision, it is necessary to assess the severity of your malocclusion. Invisalign handles all situations – pronounced crowding, occlusion problems, rotations, potential extractions – thanks to its SmartTrack® aligners and highly precise ClinCheck® plans – a 3D imaging of your oral environment. In comparison, Dr Smile primarily targets mild to moderate cases: 90% of common aesthetic corrections fall within its protocol.

2. Available Budget
The price reflects the level of customization and monitoring. Expect €1,600 – €2,900 for Dr Smile, while Invisalign ranges between €2,500 – €6,500 depending on complexity and the number of in-office appointments. Add retention: with Dr Smile, it is billed separately (≈ €99 – €200), whereas it is often included in the Invisalign package.

3. Desired Monitoring Type
For greater flexibility, Dr Smile offers digital monitoring via app with photo submission and approximately physical appointments every three months. Invisalign requires in-office visits every 6 – 8 weeks; these frequent adjustments primarily provide maximum supervision for complex cases.

A comprehensive diagnosis by an orthodontist is essential before any decision, and permanent retention remains mandatory to stabilize the result.

Essential Criteria for Choosing Your Dental Aligner

Criterion	Invisalign	Dr Smile
Cases Treated	Mild to Complex	Mild to Moderate
Average Duration	12 – 18 months	6 – 8 months
Monitoring	In-office every 6–8 wks.	App + appointments/3 months
Indicative Price	€2,500 – €6,500	€1,600 – €2,900
Retention	Included (wire or aligner)	Additional (≈ €99 – €200)

Invisalign vs Dr Smile – Which is the Best Alternative?

Comparing two invisible aligners is not straightforward: at first glance, everything seems similar. However, by dissecting each criterion — cases treated, duration, monitoring, technology, price, and limitations — the differences become clear. From the type of aligner suitable for each case to the duration, including processes and pricing, we will together break down the best dental aligner for your specific case.

1 – Type of case to treat: Dof aesthetic touch-ups to complex malocclusions

Before comparing the two protocols, let’s remember that a precise diagnosis always determines the range of dental movements actually required.

Invisalign handles approximately 90% of orthodontic situations: pronounced crowding, rotations, occlusion problems, potential extractions. Its ecosystem (attachments, elastics, refinements) and patented SmartTrack® material ensure controlled movement even when dental mechanics become complicated.

Dr Smile, conversely, targets mild to moderate crowding and spacing or relapses after previous treatment. Its ‘deliver everything at once’ strategy is well-suited for rapid aesthetic corrections but lacks the flexibility to modify the trajectory mid-treatment for a complex case or following a complication.

In practice:

• Functional need or severe case? Invisalign remains the clinical benchmark.
  
• Simple aesthetic goal with a contained budget? Dr Smile is largely sufficient.
  The idea is to regain confidence in your smile without improvising; however, an orthodontist must always validate the diagnosis before deciding.

Treatment Duration: Tight Schedule or Controlled Marathon?

For invisible aligners worn continuously, duration directly impacts patient motivation, result stability, and overall cost; it is therefore a key criterion for distinguishing between two protocols that do not promise the same pace.

• Dr Smile focuses on speed: 6 to 8 months on average, with first visible changes within 4 months if worn diligently (20–22 hrs/day). Ideal for regaining confidence in your smile before a wedding or a ‘discreet at work’ job start.
  
• Invisalign prioritizes clinical safety: 12 to 18 months, sometimes longer when refinements are added. This additional time allows for the correction of occlusion details that rapid solutions do not address. However, this longer duration can also diminish patient motivation, making daily aligner wear more challenging to maintain diligently.
  

Key takeaway: The duration of orthodontic treatment often concerns patients, especially when it exceeds one year.

However, it’s not just time that matters: discipline is crucial. Forgetting aligners for a few hours, neglecting daily wear, or not following instructions can prolong treatment, compromise correction, and sometimes significantly reduce the results achieved.

The key remains adherence to the plan validated by the orthodontist. Duration reflects case complexity, but patient consistency and diligence are what truly ensure achieving the desired smile.

Process & Monitoring: In-Office Session vs. Digital Monitoring

The monitoring method determines the ability to adjust the plan in real-time and the patient’s logistical convenience; where Invisalign advocates for monitoring similar to traditional braces treatment, Dr Smile innovates and relies on digital solutions for communication with its patients.

• An Invisalign treatment begins with an iTero 3D scan; the practitioner then creates a ClinCheck® plan that details each movement. Aligners are delivered in batches; at each visit — every six to eight weeks — the orthodontist monitors progress, adjusts attachments or adds elastics, and can, if necessary, rescan to generate a mini-series of ‘refinements’. This regular presence offers great clinical responsiveness, particularly useful for complex malocclusions.

• A Dr Smile treatment begins with taking impressions or a scan, followed by the production of all aligners at once. The patient monitors their progress via the mobile app: they send monthly photos analyzed by the team to verify treatment evolution, which is validated by a quick check approximately every three months. The system limits travel and accelerates aesthetic treatment, but the already manufactured series leaves less room for adjustment if a tooth progresses slower than expected.

Key Parameter	Invisalign	Dr Smile
Clinical Monitoring	In-person visit every 6–8 wks.	App + visit / 3 months
Adjustability During Treatment	Rescanning + possible series of refinements	Limited modifications (entire series produced at once)
Monitoring Tools	iTero 3D + ClinCheck®	Monthly photos analyzed by AI and monitoring teams
Ideal for	Complex cases, need for close supervision	Mild corrections, limited budget

Support during treatment is often a key selection criterion for patients when choosing invisible aligners. With Dr Smile’s digital monitoring, treatment success will be highly dependent on the patient’s own motivation to complete it.

Aligner Technology: SmartTrack® or High-Transparency Polyurethane?

• Invisalign uses SmartTrack® material, developed to exert a consistent and comfortable force, even when some teeth resist. This generally allows for more predictable movements, particularly for rotations and extrusions.
  
• Dr Smile uses a thin, highly transparent, and stain-resistant medical-grade polyurethane. Its thinness enhances discretion, but clinical experience is shorter than that of SmartTrack®.
  

Both materials are biocompatible, but only SmartTrack® aligners are published in long-term studies (i.e., over ten years).

In practice: for a primarily aesthetic and rapid goal, Dr Smile’s polyurethane is perfectly suited; however, for complex and documented movements, SmartTrack® still has an edge.

Pricing & Financing: Where Do the Real Differences Lie?

On the pricing scale, Invisalign applies progressive formulas (Express, Lite, Full): the more complex the case, the higher the price – from €1,800 for minor adjustments up to €6,500 when multiple refinements and in-office visits are required. Steel or PEEK retention (€100–€300) is often included in the plan.

Dr Smile, on the other hand, operates with standardized packages: €1,600–€2,900, or €3,490 for the premium Impress version, but retention (€99–€200) must be added separately. The decisive advantage? Integrated financing for up to 72 months (≈ €33/month) whereas Invisalign depends on the payment schedules offered by each practice.

In France, Social Security does not reimburse adult orthodontics; only a dental mutual insurance can partially cover aligners, refinements, or retention.

Brand	Aligner Price	Retention	Financing	Cost Factors
Invisalign	€1,800 – €6,500	€100 – €300 (often included)	Practice Payment Schedule (Variable Duration)	Case complexity, number of refinements, frequent visits
Dr Smile / Impress	€1,600 – €2,900 (≤ €3,490 premium)	€99 – €200 (additional)	In-house credit 72 months ≈ €33/month	Chosen package, addition of a premium plan, separate retention

Invisalign vs Dr Smile – Advantages & Limitations of Each Solution

Invisalign and Dr Smile differ on four points: complexity handled, technology, monitoring frequency, and budget. Thanks to the SmartTrack® + ClinCheck® combination, Invisalign corrects even severe malocclusions and requires in-office monitoring every 6 to 8 weeks; Dr Smile, designed for mild to moderate corrections, delivers all aligners at once and only sees the patient approximately every three months, which explains a more contained price.

In other words, Invisalign prioritizes clinical safety – but requires more time and budget – while Dr Smile focuses on speed, digital monitoring, and in-house 72-month financing, at the cost of an indication limited to simple cases and less close supervision.

Comparison Criteria	Invisalign	Dr Smile
Cases Treated	Corrects simple to very complex malocclusions (rotations, extractions, severe occlusions) thanks to ClinCheck® planning.	Designed for light to moderate movements; 90% of common aesthetic corrections fall within its protocol.
Technology & Material	SmartTrack® Aligners: controlled elasticity, constant forces for predictable movements	Medical polyurethane ClearQuartz™/Impress: thin and transparent; less clinical track record than SmartTrack
Average Duration	12–18 months for a full case (4–6 months Express) — speed depends on the degree of complexity	6–8 months for most standard plans — results visible from 4 months
Monitoring & Frequency	In-office appointments every 6–8 weeks: adjustments, refinements, radiographic control	Digital monitoring via app (photo submission every 2 weeks) + physical visit every 3 months approximately; fewer adjustments, more autonomy
Price & Financing	€1,800 (Express) → €6,500 (Full); retention €100–€300 (generally included)	€1,600–€2,900 (standard) or €3,490 (premium Impress); retention €99–€200 to be added. In-house 72-month financing ≈ €33/month
Comfort & Aesthetics	Aligners fitted edge-to-edge, smooth edges; possibility of attachments for complex movements	Thin, discreet aligners; mobile application for monitoring, fewer visible “attachments”
Service & After-Sales Support	Global network of practitioners; adjustments (refinements) included as per contract	Generally positive reviews on the results, but customer service sometimes deemed slow or generic in case of issues

Is it necessary to wear a retention wire after an Invisalign or Dr Smile treatment?

Absolutely. Orthodontics does not stop once teeth are aligned: they retain the memory of their initial position and tend to shift over time. Dr Smile reminds that a retention wire prevents your teeth from shifting again to maintain your new smile, even after an aligner treatment. Without retention, over 60% of patients may experience a relapse of their treatment in less than two years.

Available retention options after your aligner treatment

1. Fixed retainer: wire bonded behind the incisors; invisible from the outside. Classic metal wires are effective but can break or generate plaque deposits. A PEEK (polyetheretherketone) wire is generally very suitable after your orthodontic treatment. Discreet and comfortable, it is perfectly suited for patients using Dr Smile and Invisalign solutions.
   
2. Removable retainer: clear aligner worn at night or continuously for several months. However, it must be replaced regularly and requires strict discipline. Any lack of discipline can lead to immediate shifts and jeopardize the entire orthodontic treatment.
   

The Advantages of eZtain PEEK wire after your treatment

eZtain PEEK retainers are custom-made from a high-end medical polymer. This material is 6 to 9 times stronger than steel, MRI-compatible, and offers a natural shade close to enamel. It is flexible and durable, prevents deformation and breakage, and above all reduces plaque accumulation thanks to its polished surface.

Furthermore, PEEK wire does not interfere with radiological images and avoids the discomfort associated with metal. Investing in a quality retainer protects your initial investment of several thousand euros and prevents a costly relapse.

Discover our guide now comparing retention wires and metal to better understand the difference for this crucial stage of your treatment.

Are clear aligners painful?

The placement of aligners may cause slight discomfort at first, as teeth adapt to the pressure. This sensation usually disappears within a few days. Aligners are not painful, but they require an adjustment period for speaking and salivating. In case of persistent pain, consult your practitioner.

Should aligners be worn all the time?

Yes. Aligners must be worn 20 to 22 hours per day to ensure treatment effectiveness. They should only be removed for eating, drinking hot beverages, and brushing teeth. Poor discipline extends the treatment duration.

Can one eat with aligners?

No. Aligners must be removed before each meal or hot beverage, then replaced after brushing and rinsing. Eating with them risks deforming the aligners and staining the plastic.

Is there a substitute for Invisalign?

Yes. Several invisible aligners – Dr Smile / Impress, ClearCorrect, Angel Aligner, Byte, or Smilers – effectively correct mild to moderate malocclusions and can replace Invisalign. The final choice depends on the orthodontic diagnosis, your budget, and the desired monitoring method.

What is the best dental aligner?

There is no universally “best” aligner. Invisalign dominates for complex cases due to its close monitoring, while Dr Smile, ClearCorrect, or Byte are suitable for simple aesthetic corrections at a lower cost. The best device is the one validated by the orthodontist for your needs, budget, and availability.

Why don’t dentists always recommend Invisalign?

Some practitioners rule out Invisalign when cost, daily cooperation, or the presence of extractions complicate treatment. Classic braces or less expensive aligners sometimes offer more suitable mechanical or financial control, especially for patients who are not diligent with follow-up visits.

How to straighten teeth without Invisalign?

One can resort to metal or ceramic braces, lingual orthodontics, other aligners like Dr Smile, ClearCorrect, or Byte, or minor enamel touch-ups for minor defects. The choice always depends on the preliminary diagnosis made by the orthodontist.

What is the best solution for aligning teeth?

The optimal solution combines medical feasibility, aesthetics, budget, and availability. For simple overlaps, a digitally monitored aligner (Dr Smile, ClearCorrect) is often sufficient; complex malocclusions rather require Invisalign or fixed braces with regular check-ups. Professional diagnosis remains decisive.

What is the price of an invisible Invisalign dental appliance?

An Invisalign Express treatment costs approximately €1,800, Invisalign Lite €2,500–€3,500, and Invisalign Full €3,500–€6,500. Add €100–€300 for the final retention, generally included. The exact amount depends on the clinical complexity, the number of aligners, and the geographical region chosen by the practice.

What happens at the end of treatment?

Once the last aligner is worn, an appointment is necessary to check the result and implement the retention. This can be a fixed wire bonded behind your teeth or a removable retention aligner. The goal is to maintain your new smile long-term. Dr Smile charges for retention separately, while it is often included with Invisalign.

What to do if an aligner is lost or broken?

Immediately contact your orthodontist or your brand’s customer service. They will instruct you to either return to the previous aligner, move to the next one, or they will order a new aligner. Do not stop wearing your aligners without medical advice.

How to care for your clear aligners?

Rinse aligners with cold water after each removal and use a soft toothbrush and mild soap to clean them. Avoid toothpaste (too abrasive) and hot water (risk of deformation). Store your aligners in their case when not wearing them to prevent loss or breakage.

What are the alternatives to Invisalign aligners?

Several brands offer similar treatments:

• ClearCorrect: American aligner offering in-office monitoring and lower costs than Invisalign (€2,000 to €6,000). Designed for simple to moderate cases.
  
• Angel Aligner: leader in Asian countries, a significant competitor to Invisalign (€3,500 to €6,000).
  
• Byte: at-home solution (approximately €2,000) for mild cases. Everything is done remotely.
  
• Six Month Smiles: aesthetic system (with ceramic brackets) for aligning visible teeth in 6 months.
  
• CandidPro: hybrid model (in-office + remote) with prices ranging from €3,000 to €5,500.

Do not forget classic options (metal or ceramic brackets, lingual orthodontics) for very complex cases or for those who prefer 100% in-office monitoring.

What are the alternatives to Dr Smile?

In France, several competing brands offer more traditional monitoring models:

• Aligneurs Français: 100% made in France solution, created in 2019 by dental surgeons. It includes regular in-office monitoring, a treatment plan designed and validated by orthodontists, and retention in the quote. Patients thus benefit from more personalized supervision and local manufacturing.
  
• Orthlane and Joovence: French startups offering mixed monitoring (in-office and remote monitoring) and prices similar to Dr Smile. They rely on similar technologies and proximity to the practitioner.
  
• Impress (excluding merger): the Spanish brand continues to offer its own treatment plans. Prices are slightly higher than Dr Smile’s but include more physical appointments.
  

Before choosing, compare quotes, the proximity of partner practices, the number of included visits, and the cost of retention.

Do not forget to pay attention to other existing alternatives on the market besides aligners. In this regard, our comparative articles with Winnove and Memotain, two existing retention solutions in addition to eZtain, can help you maintain a perfect smile.

To conclude – What will be the perfect aligner for your smile?

Invisalign and Dr Smile are two effective solutions for discreetly aligning teeth. The choice will depend on the complexity of your case, your budget, and your monitoring preferences: Invisalign is more suitable for difficult cases and offers in-office support, while Dr Smile is suitable for simple to moderate corrections and offers digital monitoring at an attractive price.

In any case, treatment does not end with the last aligner: the dental retention wire is essential to maintain your new smile. Opting for a PEEK retention wire, such as the one developed by eZtain, ensures lasting stability, maximum discretion, and superior comfort.

Before starting, always consult an orthodontist for a personalized diagnosis and compare several quotes – this way you will be sure to choose the solution best suited to your situation.

About the Author

Dr. Nicolas Philippides is an orthodontist graduated from the University of Strasbourg, holding a CES in dentofacial orthopedics. With several years of practice in a clinic, he has supported hundreds of patients in their orthodontic treatment, with a constant commitment to long-term stability and comfort.
Faced with the limitations of conventional retainers, he decided in 2022 to found eZtain Lab: a project born from a simple but recurring clinical observation — too many relapses due to poorly adapted or overly fragile wires. In collaboration with INSA, he developed a new generation of PEEK retainer wires, custom-made, comfortable, and durable.
Today, his research and experience fuel a single ambition: to offer reliable devices, designed to last, and adapted to the requirements of modern orthodontics.