Invisalign
Clear Aligner Provider in Seattle
Why We Choose 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners Over Invisalign® Clear Aligners
For years, Invisalign® was the name everyone associated with clear aligners – and for good reason. They pioneered the category and changed the way people think about orthodontic treatment. But like all technology, things evolve. Today, there are better, more flexible, and more patient-centered options available.
At Seattle Dental Associates, we’ve made a carefully considered decision to transition away from Invisalign® and now exclusively offer 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners. Why? Because after years of working with both systems, we believe 3M Clarity Aligners delivers a better experience – for both our patients and our dental team.
Call 206-343-8774 now to schedule your FREE clear aligners consultation.
Affordable Clear Aligners Treatment in Downtown Seattle
Our experienced dental team is trained to use state-of-the-art technology and the most current dental techniques to deliver outstanding results and we’ve achieved thousands of beautiful smiles for our patients previously using Invisalign® and now we use 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners to achieve even better results and gorgeous smiles.
Here are a few reasons to choose our team:
- Experienced dentists who invest in continuing education
- Highly-rated dental team with a 4.9 Google star rating
- Convenient downtown location in the Medical-Dental building near Amazon
- Dental membership plan
- Seattle Met Top Dentist since 2013
- Near Westlake Link Lightrail stop and over 30+ bus routes
- Validated parking at Pacific Place
- Friendly, relaxing atmosphere for all ages
- Plush pillows and cozy blankets are available during treatment
Why We Switched from Invisalign® to 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners
We didn’t make this decision lightly. Invisalign® has played an important role in advancing orthodontic technology, but over time, we’ve experienced a growing list of limitations that didn’t align with our patient-first philosophy.
Here’s why we believe 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners are the superior choice:
- Great customization and control
3M clarity clear aligners give Dr. Baker and his team more precise control over individual tooth movement, making treatment more efficient and outcomes more predictable. With Invisalign®, many of these adjustments were pre-set or limited by software restrictions. - Enhanced comfort
Patients consistently report that 3M’s aligner material is smoother and more comfortable. That’s no surprise – 3M has long been a global leader in materials science, and 3M Clarity’s trays reflect that innovation. - True Clinical Flexibility
3M™ Clarity™ Aligners allow us to design the best treatment for you, not just what’s easiest for a proprietary system. We can use any scanner we choose, and we’re not locked into restrictive platforms that prioritize equipment sales over patient outcomes.
Prioritizing Patients Over Profits
At Seattle Dental Associates, our goal is simple: provide the best possible care for our patients.
Unfortunately, we found that Invisalign’s business model increasingly stood in the way of that decision.
Invisalign places sales quotas and corporate policies above patient outcomes. Providers are pressured to hit monthly treatment submission minimums, regardless of whether their patients truly need aligners at that time. If those quotas aren’t met, Invisalign may restrict access to their products or even remove providers from their network entirely.
What does this mean for patients?
1. You might be pushed into treatment sooner than necessary
2. You could be offered a more expensive option that benefits the company, not your health
3. You may experience limited transparency, as dentists are incentivized to prioritize case volume over personalization
We’ve experienced this firsthand. Despite using Invisalign for retainers, we were threatened with removal from their system simply because we hadn’t submitted a “large enough” case recently. That was the moment we knew their focus had shifted – from helping patients to protecting profit margins.
With 3M™ Clarity Aligners, we’ve found a company that supports clinical freedom, patient-first care, and transparent ethics. No quotas. No pressure. Just high-quality materials and reliable results backed by decades of scientific innovation.
Our Invisalign Results
Invisalign® vs 3M Clarity Clear Aligners:
A Patient-Centered Comparison
| FEATURE | 3M CLARITY ALIGNERS | INVISALIGN® |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment Customization | Gives us more control to fine-tune your treatment for better, faster results | Relies heavily on automated software, limiting our ability to make adjustments |
| Material Comfort | Made from a smoother, more advanced material that feels more natural and reduces irritation | Patients often report sharp edges and discomfort with the aligner fit and feel |
| Flexibility and Access | Works with a wide range of digital scanners, ensuring faster and more accurate impressions | Only compatible with Invisalign’s own scanner which can slow down or limit access |
| Tooth Movement Precision | Allows more specific, controlled movements for complex cases and better long-term outcomes | Less control over fine details, which can lead to longer treatment times or the need for refinements |
| Patient-Centered Approach | No sales quotas, no pressure – treatment is recommended only when it benefits you | Providers are pressured to meet Invisalign sales targets which can lead to over-recommending treatment |
| Cost Transparency | No upsells, hidden fees, or company-driven incentives – treatment plans are built around your needs | Sales-driven model may prioritize company profits over cost-effective patient solutions |
| Retention and Long-Term Care | Continued support for retainers and maintenance without restrictions | Providers may be penalized for low case volume – even if they still use the system for patient retainers |
What to Expect with 3M Clarity Clear Aligners
Step 1: Consultation & 3D Scan
We’ll evaluate your bite, smile goals, and alignment concerns. Using advanced scanning technology, we take precise digital impressions – no messy molds required.
Step 2: Custom Treatment Plan
Using 3M’s open, customizable software, we built a step-by-step plan to move your teeth efficiently and comfortably.
Step 3: Wear Your Aligners
You’ll wear each set of aligners for about 1-2 weeks, removing them only to eat, brush, and floss. Most patients see visible changes within just a few weeks.
Step 4: Retainers & Maintenance
Once your teeth are beautifully aligned, we’ll provide retainers to help maintain your results for years to come.
Who is a Good Candidate
3M Clarity Aligners can treat a wide range of cases, including:
- crooked or crowded teeth
- gaps between teeth
- overbites, underbites, and crossbites
- mild to moderate bite issues
- teens and adults seeking a discreet option
Not sure if you’re a candidate? Schedule a FREE consultation – we’ll walk you through your options and help you understand if 3M Clarity clear aligners are right for you.
A Better Smile, Backed by Better Technology
We chose 3M Clarity Aligners because it aligns with our values as a practice: clinical excellence, ethical care, and exceptional results. You deserve a provider who chooses treatments because they’re better for you – not because they’re pressured by sales incentives.
If you’re comparing Invisalign and 3M Clarity – or if you’re just starting to explore clear aligners – we’d love to talk. You’ll find honesty, clarity, and a personalized approach at every step of the way.
Book Your Clear Aligner Consultation Today!
Ready to straighten your teeth with a system that’s more advanced, more comfortable, and more customized?
Schedule a FREE consultation with Seattle Dental Associates today and find out how 3M Clarity Aligners can transform your smile – without compromise. We’re conveniently located in downtown Seattle and are a patient-centered, results-driven dental practice that is always honest.
Nine Reasons to Choose an Out-of-Network Dentist
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What Our Patients Are Saying
Read what our clients have said about what left them smiling whenever they leave our office!
Phenomenal experience with this team. Everyone was so friendly and made me feel at ease from the moment I walked in the door. Very professional and highly knowledgeable staff who give such thorough and helpful explanations. I could tell everyone had my best interests in mind, and they were very happy to address any concerns I had. Highly recommend Dr. Baker and his team!
Was referred to Seattle Dental Associates by an excellent endodontist team, after previous dentist retired. I've lived in several major cities, experiencing the help and guidance of several dentists. Dr. Baker and the team - dental assistants, dental hygienists, staff persons - are excellent in knowledge, care, thoughtfulness, experience, expertise. I recommend them highly. Thank you Seattle Dental Associates for all you do and have done for me.
I had not been to the dentist in several years so was apprehensive about what would happen. Everyone was extremely kind and non-judgmental. In particular, the first dental assistant was quick to put me at ease and employed a lot of positive feedback during a tricky procedure. The dentist and dental hygienist were also very professional and offered a concise plan on how I can get back on track. They also got me out on time which was extremely helpful! Highly recommend this office!
I schedule my major dental work with Dr. Baker when I'm visiting Seattle from my home in Alaska. He and his entire office staff are so accommodating and take such good care of me! I feel welcome and am always confident that my dental work is excellent because Dr. Baker and his staff use the best technology along with their attention to every detail during my dental procedure. He's done a beautiful bridge and two gorgeous crowns for me. I get compliments on them from my local Alaskan dentist! I highly recommend Dr. Baker and Seattle Dental Associates.
Fantastic service and dental care. I switched to SDA on the recommendation of a coworker and am so glad I did! Cleanings are efficient and gentle, and any more involved work is rendered in such a respectful and caring way. They vouch for parking in Pacific Place so it's very easy to drive into the city for care.