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Updated on November 1, 2023
9 min read

Candid vs Invisalign

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Candid vs. Invisalign: The Main Differences

Here are the main differences between Candid and Invisalign:

1. Treatment Model

Candid

Candid uses a hybrid treatment model. You have to visit a qualified CandidPro provider to begin your treatment. These licensed dentists will take digital scans and impressions of your teeth.

Once you and your dentist approve your custom treatment plan, you will receive your aligners. Your dentist will track your progress through the CandidMonitoring app to ensure your teeth are moving correctly and safely.

Invisalign

Invisalign uses a 100% in-office treatment model. You have to visit a certified Invisalign doctor to begin treatment and also see them for routine checkups every 6 to 8 weeks. Like Candid, you can't order an impression kit online.

2. Treatment Monitoring

Candid

Candid treatment is monitored remotely through the CandidApp. As mentioned above, the same orthodontist who makes your treatment plan will track your progress in this app.

You’ll send in detailed progress photos every two weeks using the CandidScan included in your treatment package. The box connects to your smartphone and is used to take images of tooth movement.

Invisalign

With Invisalign, you’ll set up office visits with an Invisalign doctor every few weeks so they can track your progress. Invisalign treatment is monitored more closely than Candid aligner treatment.

"Patients following at-home aligner treatment need to be proactive about wearing their aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours per day. For patients who may not be as disciplined with their aligner wear, having the accountability of in-office visits may be needed."

Dr. Elvi Barcoma, Smile Doctors Orthodontist

Keep in mind that orthodontic treatment is less predictable without regular, in-person office visits. However, when monitored closely by an experienced orthodontist, remote invisible aligner treatment is generally safe and effective.

3. Treatment Cost

Candid

Candid aligners cost $3,300 (on average, depending on the provider). Some providers may offer a payment plan. You can also use an HSA or FSA to pay for Candid treatment.

Invisalign

Invisalign aligners cost anywhere between $3,000 and $8,000. The higher cost is attributed to a longer treatment time, especially for complicated cases of teeth misalignment.

Talk with your dentist about a monthly payment plan. You can also use an HSA or FSA to pay for Invisalign treatment.

4. Treatment Time

Candid

The average treatment time for Candid is 4 to 12 months. Candid can treat most minor to severe cases of teeth misalignment.

Invisalign

Invisalign treatment can take up to 18 months. Invisalign can treat very complex bite issues with the use of attachments (buttons).

Attachments allow for more precise teeth/jaw alignment. Candid aligners don't come with attachments.

6. Treatable Cases

Candid

Candid aligners can treat most minor to severe teeth alignment issues. This includes:

  • Crooked teeth
  • Crowded teeth
  • Gapped teeth (diastema)

Invisalign

Invisalign can treat complex misalignment cases, including:

  • Overbites
  • Underbites
  • Open bites
  • Misaligned baby teeth

Invisalign uses special attachments (buttons) or elastics to help shift the jaw and teeth into the correct position.

7. Free Teeth Whitening

Candid

Candid provides a free whitening foam with every purchase. This premium whitening foam is safe to use in your aligners up to six times a day. It also disinfects the aligners and freshens your breath.

Invisalign

Invisalign does not include teeth whitening in its treatment plan.

Overview

CANDID

  • Treatment costs an average of $3,300
  • Set up an appointment with a qualified CandidPro provider (licensed dental professional) to begin treatment
  • Licensed and experienced Candid orthodontists design each treatment plan
  • No at-home impression kit option (discontinued in 2022)
  • During treatment, you'll use the CandidApp (available on iOS and Android) for remote monitoring from your Candid orthodontist
  • Providers may offer payment plans
  • Treatment takes between 4 and 12 months
  • Eligible for most mild to severe teeth spacing issues (hence the shorter treatment time)

INVISALIGN

  • Treatment costs between $3,000 and $8,000
  • You can't order an impression kit online
  • Consultations with an Invisalign-certified doctor are required
  • In-person consultations cost between $100 and $200 or more if you require x-rays
  • No remote monitoring; in-person visits are required every 6 to 8 weeks
  • Treatment may be prescribed and overseen by a dentist rather than an orthodontist
  • Treatment takes between 12 and 18 months (sometimes less or more)
  • Payment plans are available but vary depending on the treatment case and doctor
  • Invisalign can treat more severe teeth spacing issues (hence the longer treatment time)

What are Candid Aligners?

Candid aligners are a transparent and removable alternative to traditional braces. The aligners are:

  • FDA-approved
  • BPA-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Stain-resistant

Candid shifted its business focus, no longer offering at-home impression kits. It’s now a hybrid option for those who want some of the convenience of at-home teeth straightening without sacrificing the quality of care. 

Candid Kit 1

Candid works with licensed orthodontists who have at least 20 years of experience in the teeth straightening industry. These experts design the treatment plans.

How Does Candid Work?

  1. Set up an appointment with a qualified CandidPro provider for an initial consultation.
  2. During the consultation, your Candid provider will take digital scans and impressions of your bite.
  3. The dental professional will determine if you're a good candidate for treatment (most mild to severe cases are accepted).
  4. If you're approved, the provider will send the scans to a licensed Candid orthodontist so they can personally design your treatment plan.
  5. Once the treatment plan is made and approved, you’ll receive the aligners within a few weeks. 
  6. Wear each set of aligners for at least 22 hours a day. You can remove them to brush, floss, eat, and drink. They are swapped out every 2 weeks (unless told otherwise).
  7. During treatment, your progress is monitored remotely via CandidMonitoring™, the company’s telehealth platform (mobile app). You won't set up in-person appointments.
  8. The same Candid orthodontist who designs your treatment plan will track your progress in the app. These check-ins are completely remote and flexible. Candid's mobile app is available on iOS and Android.
  9. Treatment takes 4 to 12 months. Your final set of aligners acts as your retainers, which you'll wear every night to maintain your new smile. These retainers should be replaced every six months.

What Conditions Can Candid Treat?

Candid aligners can treat most cases of minor to severe cases of teeth misalignment, including:

  • Gapped teeth
  • Crooked teeth
  • Crowded teeth

There are a few reasons why you wouldn’t be a candidate for Candid aligners, including:

  • Jaw misalignment: Moderate to severe cases of jaw misalignment typically requires more invasive orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign
  • Untreated dental conditions or upcoming dental work: You need to address oral conditions like cavities or gum disease before clear aligner treatment begins
  • Existing dental restorations: Certain dental restorations, including dental implants and bridges, cannot be treated with Candid clear aligners

"Patients with mild cases make excellent candidates for at-home aligner treatment. Patients who have demanding work schedules, or are worried about making the time for office visits, appreciate the independence that comes with this option. Additionally, patients who are very committed to their treatment timeline, and will be able to keep themselves on track, see the most success with these treatment plans."

Dr. Elvi Barcoma, Smile Doctors Orthodontist

How Long Does Candid Treatment Take?

Candid treatment takes between 4 and 12 months. The specific duration of your treatment depends on your level of teeth misalignment and other factors.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is the most well-known and established clear aligner brand. Invisalign clear aligners are:

  • FDA-approved
  • BPS and BPA-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Latex-free

Invisalign aligners are made of a patented thermoplastic material, called SmartTrack®. They claim to be more comfortable and are easier to put on and remove. 

Treatment includes wearing a series of removable, invisible aligners that straighten your teeth over time. Invisalign treatment is monitored in person by a general dentist or orthodontist.

How Does Invisalign Work?

  1. An Invisalign treatment plan starts with an in-person consultation with an Invisalign-trained doctor, dentist, or orthodontist.
  2. They will evaluate your smile and create a custom digital treatment plan that shows step-by-step progress.
  3. After you approve the treatment plan, your custom aligners will be created.
  4. You will wear the aligners for 22 hours a day. Every new set will move your teeth in small increments, and you’ll change them out every 1 to 3 weeks.
  5. You’ll also set up appointments with your Invisalign doctor every 6 weeks to track your teeth straightening progress and make adjustments as necessary. 
  6. You’ll buy a Vivera® retainer to keep your teeth straight after treatment. 

What Conditions Can Invisalign Treat?

Invisalign can treat more malocclusion types and bite issues than Candid. These include: 

Not everyone is a suitable candidate for Invisalign treatment. You may require alternative treatment if you have:

How Long Does Invisalign Take?

With Invisalign, you’ll probably start seeing results in a few weeks. However, the entire treatment can take anywhere between 6 and 24 months.

Treatment times depend on the severity of your condition. The average treatment time is 12 to 18 months.

Alternative Treatment Options

If you can't or don't want to get Candid or Invisalign treatment, there are other options you can consider:

Braces

Braces are another form of treatment to fix crooked and misaligned teeth. Unlike Candid and Invisalign, they can treat a greater number of cases, including jaw misalignment.

They can cost anywhere between $1,500 and $10,000. The total cost will depend on the type of braces your get, your insurance, and other factors.

At-Home Clear Aligners

As the name suggests, at-home clear aligners allow you to begin the teeth-straightening process from the comfort of your home. They are more affordable treatment options compared to Candid and Invisalign.

At-home clear aligners can cost anywhere between $870 and $2,400. It depends on the brand you get, the kind of treatment you need, and other factors.

Some of the most popular at-home clear aligner brands include:

Candid vs. Invisalign: Which is Right for You? 

To determine whether Invisalign or Candid treatment is right for you, speak with your dentist or orthodontist. If you are a candidate for both Candid and Invisalign, the one you choose may depend on your lifestyle.

For example, if you want flexible treatment and remote monitoring, Candid is the ideal option. If you prefer more intensive (in-person) treatment and do not mind the cost, Invisalign is for you. 

"Patients with more complex cases, untreated underlying conditions, or an active periodontal disease with lack of bone or unhealthy gum tissue should consider traditional, in-clinic treatment to ensure these conditions are monitored closely. Prior to moving teeth, an examination and radiograph are important to ensure the best treatment approach is taken to achieve a healthy and confident smile."

Dr. Ryan Hurley, Smile Doctors Orthodontist

If a CandidPro provider believes you’d be better served by close monitoring with in-office orthodontic treatment (Invisalign or metal braces), they will let you know upfront. This ensures you get the best possible care for your needs.

Last updated on November 1, 2023
10 Sources Cited
Last updated on November 1, 2023
All NewMouth content is medically reviewed and fact-checked by a licensed dentist or orthodontist to ensure the information is factual, current, and relevant.

We have strict sourcing guidelines and only cite from current scientific research, such as scholarly articles, dentistry textbooks, government agencies, and medical journals. This also includes information provided by the American Dental Association (ADA), the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
  1. Candid Clear Aligners.” Candid.
  2. Candid Starter Kit.” Candid.
  3. Our Most Frequently Asked Questions.” Candid.
  4. “FAQ.” Invisalign.
  5. See What Invisalign® Treatment Can Do.” Invisalign.
  6. SmartTrack® Material.” Invisalign.
  7. How Does Smile Direct Club Work.” SmileDirectClub.
  8. You Made Your Smile Beautiful. Keep It That Way with Vivera® Retainers.” Invisalign.
  9. How Does Invisalign® Treatment Work?” Invisalign.
  10. Proffit et al. "Contemporary Orthodontics." Elsevier/Mosby, 2019.
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