Clear Aligners · Specialist-Led · Last reviewed May 2026
Clear Aligners, Without the Invisalign Premium.
Picasso Dental offers certified non-Invisalign clear aligner systems in Vietnam, planned by specialist orthodontists with iTero digital scanning, full case planning and in-person supervision. A budget-friendly alternative to Invisalign for mild to moderate cases. Same removable, discreet treatment, less paid for the brand premium.
The Treatment
Clear aligners. Same result, lower price.
Clear aligners are removable, custom-moulded plastic trays worn over the teeth to gradually move them into a planned position. Each aligner in the series is worn 22 hours per day for one to two weeks before progressing to the next. Treatment looks identical to Invisalign and works on the same biomechanical principles. The differences are in planning software, manufacturing facility, brand premium and case range.
Lower Cost
Non-Invisalign clear aligner systems cost roughly 40 percent less than equivalent Invisalign treatment. The saving comes from lower brand premium and lower planning software costs, not lower clinical standards.
Same Removable Discretion
Aligners look the same in the mouth as Invisalign. The same near-invisibility, the same removability for eating and important social occasions, the same lifestyle profile.
Specialist Planning
Every case is planned by a specialist orthodontist using iTero scanning and digital simulation. The clinical workflow is identical; only the back-end manufacturing differs.
Pricing
Pricing by case complexity.
Pricing is per case, including all aligners in the series, all check-in visits, attachments, and final retainers (one set per arch).
| Case Complexity | Typical Aligner Count | Treatment Time |
|---|---|---|
| Mild crowding / spacing | 10 to 18 aligners | 6 to 9 months |
| Mild to moderate alignment | 18 to 28 aligners | 9 to 12 months |
| Moderate alignment | 28 to 40 aligners | 12 to 14 months |
| Moderate with refinements | 40+ aligners + refinements | 12 to 14 months |
For severe rotations, complex extraction patterns or deep skeletal bite issues, we typically recommend Invisalign Comprehensive or fixed braces, where the documented case range is broader.
The Orthodontists
Specialist-led, not general dentist-led.
Every clear aligner case at Picasso is planned and delivered by a qualified orthodontist. The distinction matters: case selection, simulation design and mid-treatment corrections all require specialist judgment.
Head of OrthodonticsOrthodontist
Dr. Duong Ho
DDS, UMP HCMC (2008). Master's, Maxillofacial Orthopedic Surgery, Université Paris Descartes (Paris 5), 2009–2014. Clinical experience at Hôpital Necker and Hôpital Victor Dupouy, France.
"Orthodontics is occlusion first, appearance second. Done right, the smile is the by-product."
Aligner LeadOrthodontist, Lingual & Aligners
Dr. Thuan Phung
Specialist orthodontist with comprehensive experience across Invisalign, non-Invisalign aligners and fixed braces. Platinum Elite Invisalign Provider, treating mild to severe cases across the full clear-aligner spectrum.
"The simulation is where the case is won or lost. Aligners only move teeth as well as the plan instructs them to."
Adult & TeenOrthodontist
Dr. Toan Le (Dr. Mathew)
Specialist orthodontist with broad experience across fixed and clear-aligner systems. Adult and teen treatment, with particular focus on case selection and aligner-vs-braces decisions.
"For mild cases, the right aligner system is the one your specialist recommends for your specific bite, not the most-advertised brand."
The Process
Five steps from first visit to final retainer.
From specialist consultation to your final retainer, every case is supervised in-person throughout.
1. Specialist Consultation
A specialist orthodontist examines your bite and discusses options. Confirms whether non-Invisalign aligners fit your case, or whether Invisalign or fixed braces would do a better job. Honest answer on day one.
2. iTero Scan & Plan
Digital scan, photographs, and treatment plan with simulation. You review the predicted outcome before any aligners are manufactured. Approve or adjust.
3. Aligners & Attachments
Aligner series arrives. Composite attachments bonded to specific teeth if required. First aligners fitted with wear and care guidance.
4. Progress Check-Ins
Every 10 weeks: tracking review against the plan, next aligners handed over. Most visits are short. Treatment runs 6 to 14 months depending on case.
5. Refinements & Retention
If the final result needs touch-ups, refinement aligners produced. Once finished, retainers fitted and worn nightly indefinitely to preserve the result.
Duration by Case
Mild: 6–9 months. Minor crowding or spacing, 10 to 18 aligners.
Mild to moderate: 9–12 months. Mixed crowding and spacing, 18 to 28 aligners.
Moderate: 12–14 months. Moderate alignment, 28 to 40 aligners.
Complex: We recommend Invisalign or fixed braces for better predictability.
Honest Comparison
Non-Invisalign vs Invisalign, side by side.
The clinical and practical differences. Both are valid; the right choice depends on case complexity and budget.
| Criterion | Non-Invisalign Aligners | Invisalign |
|---|---|---|
| Best Case Range | Mild to moderate | Mild to severe (Comprehensive) |
| Planning Software | Manufacturer-specific | ClinCheck (industry-leading) |
| Aligner Material | Standard PETG / similar | SmartTrack proprietary |
| Refinements Included | Limited | Up to unlimited (Comprehensive) |
| International Portability | Limited (provider-specific) | Excellent (worldwide network) |
| Documented Track Record | Manufacturer-dependent | Largest aligner database globally |
Honest Assessment
Who these aligners work for, and who they don't.
Non-Invisalign clear aligners suit specific case types. Decided after specialist consultation and iTero scan.
You're a Strong Candidate If
You have mild to moderate crowding, spacing, or rotation.
You want removable, discreet treatment.
You can commit to wearing aligners 22 hours daily.
Your bite is largely correct (no significant skeletal issues).
You are based in Vietnam or returning regularly for check-ins.
You are budget-conscious but want professional supervision.
You May Need Invisalign or Braces If
You have significant rotations or impacted teeth.
Your case requires extractions and complex space closure.
You have substantial bite issues (overbite, underbite, crossbite).
You are travelling internationally and need worldwide adjustment access.
You cannot reliably wear removable appliances 20+ hours per day.
Daily Life
What changes, what doesn't.
The practical day-to-day reality of wearing clear aligners. Honest and specific.
22 Hours Daily
Aligners must stay in for 22 hours per day to work. The 4 hours out are for eating and brushing. This is the single biggest lifestyle change. Treat it like a non-negotiable.
Eating
Take aligners out before any food or drink other than water. Tea, coffee, juice, alcohol all stain or warp the plastic. Rinse aligners while you eat; brush teeth before reinserting if possible.
Speaking
A slight lisp during the first 3 days of each new aligner is common as your tongue adjusts. Speech returns to normal quickly. Most patients report no one notices in everyday conversation.
Cleaning Aligners
Rinse with cool water after eating. Brush aligners gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap (not toothpaste, which scratches). Soak in denture solution or a designated aligner cleaning tablet daily.
Travelling
Carry your current and next aligner sets when travelling. Keep them in their case, not loose in a napkin, which is the most common way aligners are accidentally thrown away.
Important Social Occasions
Aligners can be removed for short events (a wedding, a job interview, a presentation), then put back in. Removed time still counts against the 4 hours daily limit.
Risks & Limits
The honest scope, not the marketing version.
Non-Invisalign clear aligners are clinically valid but not unlimited. The limits matter for case selection.
Compliance Dependent
Aligners only work when worn 22 hours per day. Patients who cannot or do not stick to this see slow progress or no progress. We do not start patients we suspect will struggle with compliance.
Limited Complex Case Range
Severe rotations, large extraction movements, and complex finishing details are typically harder to predict and produce reliably with non-Invisalign systems than with Invisalign Comprehensive or fixed braces.
Refinements May Be Limited
Many non-Invisalign systems include limited refinement aligners; Invisalign Comprehensive includes unlimited refinements. We discuss the trade-off at planning before you commit.
International Portability
If you move abroad mid-treatment, finding a local provider familiar with the same non-Invisalign system can be harder than finding an Invisalign provider. International patients are usually better served by Invisalign.
Aligner Damage and Loss
Aligners can crack, warp from heat (do not leave in cars or near hot drinks), or be lost. Replacement aligners are typically the next set in the series. Most patients have at most one or two losses through a full course.
Mail-Order DIY Systems Are Not Equivalent
At-home, no-clinic mail-order aligners (sold direct-to-consumer with no in-person clinical exam) are not the same as supervised clear aligner treatment. We do not offer or recommend them.
Common Questions
The questions, answered.
If yours is not here, our clinical team replies to every online consultation within twenty-four hours.
What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners are removable, custom-moulded plastic trays worn over the teeth to gradually move them into a planned position. Each aligner in the series is worn for one to two weeks before progressing to the next. Treatment looks similar to Invisalign but uses non-Invisalign aligner systems at typically lower cost, suitable for mild to moderate cases.
How are clear aligners different from Invisalign?
Invisalign is a specific clear aligner brand made by Align Technology, with the most extensive global clinical documentation and the ClinCheck planning software. Other clear aligners use the same general principle but with different planning software, manufacturing facilities and clinical track record. They are typically more affordable but better suited to mild to moderate cases.
How long does clear aligner treatment take?
Most non-Invisalign clear aligner cases take 6 to 14 months. Mild crowding or minor spacing: 6 to 9 months. Moderate alignment cases: 10 to 14 months. Anything more complex than this we typically recommend Invisalign or fixed braces.
Will clear aligners hurt?
Most patients describe pressure or tightness for the first 2 to 3 days after switching to a new aligner, easing through the wear cycle. It is not painless, teeth are being moved, but it is generally less uncomfortable than after a fixed-brace adjustment. Over-the-counter pain relief is enough for most patients on day one of a new aligner.
Can I eat with clear aligners in?
No. You take them out to eat and to drink anything other than water. This protects the aligners from staining and cracking, and prevents food from being pressed against your teeth for hours. Brush before reinserting whenever possible.
Will I need attachments?
Often yes. Composite attachments (small tooth-coloured bumps bonded to specific teeth) help aligners grip and produce certain movements. They are placed at the start of treatment and removed at the end. They are visible up close but generally less noticeable than fixed brackets.
Can I have non-Invisalign clear aligners as an international patient?
Possible but more limited than with Invisalign. Non-Invisalign aligners are less universally supported worldwide, meaning if you need adjustments while back home, finding a local provider familiar with the same system can be harder. For international patients we generally recommend Invisalign.
Do you offer mail-order clear aligners?
No. We do not offer or recommend at-home mail-order aligner systems. Every aligner case at Picasso Dental is planned and supervised by a specialist orthodontist with iTero scanning and in-person check-ins.
Will I need retainers afterwards?
Yes, long-term. Teeth naturally drift, especially in the first year. We supply Vivera or thermoplastic retainers at the end of treatment and recommend nightly wear indefinitely to preserve your result.
Start Here
Find out if clear aligners fit your case within 24 hours.
Tell us your concerns and timeline. Our specialist orthodontists review every request and tell you honestly whether non-Invisalign aligners suit your case, or whether Invisalign or fixed braces would be the better choice, with treatment plan and pricing at no cost and no obligation.