Thinking About Invisalign? Discover the Latest Advances in Clear Aligner Technology

Still thinking about getting Invisalign® instead of braces? Take a look at these advances in clear aligner technology, which make Invisalign a better option than ever.

Most people these days know what Invisalign® is — the system of clear, plastic aligner trays that offer a “nearly invisible” alternative to braces. What you may not realize is that Invisalign has been around for more than 25 years.

And, as of 2025, more than 20 million people worldwide have taken advantage of what Invisalign offers. The system uses clear aligner trays instead of metal and bracket braces, worn 20-22 hours a day, to move teeth into the smile you crave.

But even with its success, Invisalign is not resting on its laurels. The company keeps pushing forward with new technology and ideas.

Our team at Montclair Orthodontics in Oakland, California, led by Dr. Chad Watts, loves staying at the cutting edge of orthodontic treatment. Here’s more information about the latest advances in Invisalign’s clear aligner technology.

Improved material

In 2025, Invisalign introduced a new version of its SmartTrack® material that forms the aligners. The improved material grips your teeth better, which means the aligners can more effectively and precisely move your teeth to the correct position.

This helps reduce your overall treatment time and means fewer adjustments are needed during treatment. The trays are also designed to be faster and smoother to insert and remove, with edges smoothed out. This means less gum irritation and trays that fit more snugly.

AI planning

Invisalign has also updated its software to allow for more planning with powerful artificial intelligence tools.

AI helps plan your treatment more accurately, offering an improved simulation of how your teeth will move and guiding more predictable results in complicated cases. This predictive planning is based on the original digital scan of your mouth.

Digital monitoring

Invisalign also offers improved digital monitoring options, allowing patients to check their progress, report issues, and get guidance through an app. This reduces the number of times you need to visit the office and enables you to get a faster response when you need it.

Attachments

Invisalign has also introduced SmartForce™ attachments. These small, thin, but sturdy tooth-colored devices attach to your teeth.

Once in place, they provide the aligners with something to push against, which helps move your teeth to the correct position. The aligners fit smoothly and snugly around the SmartForce attachments, making them very comfortable and virtually unnoticeable.

How do I know Invisalign is right for me?

Your experience at Montclair Orthodontics starts with an evaluation that lets Dr. Watts assess your bite, discuss your expectations, and design the best treatment option for your needs.

If you’re a good fit for Invisalign, you’ll receive detailed instructions about the system and how to care for your aligners.

Otherwise, Dr. Watts may suggest other types of braces to better fit your treatment preferences and circumstances.

Along with traditional metal braces, your options could include:

Lingual braces

These braces are bonded to the backs of the teeth, making it difficult for others to see that you’re wearing them.

Mini-diamond braces

A smaller, more comfortable, yet highly effective version of traditional wire braces

Clear braces

We offer Clarity™ braces, which provide the same results but are much less noticeable than traditional metal braces.

Our goal is always to achieve the gorgeous smile you deserve with treatment tailored to your specific needs.

Ready to learn more?

When you’re ready for more information about Invisalign or one of the other smile-straightening methods we offer, our team at Montclair Orthodontics is standing by.

To schedule an evaluation, call our Oakland office or use our easy online booking tool to choose your own time.