ClearCorrect Aligners

Clear Aligners Overview

Clear aligners, also called invisible braces or clear braces, are discreet orthodontic devices that correct misaligned and crooked teeth. They are a removable and almost invisible alternative to traditional metal braces designed around flexibility and convenience.

There are two types of invisible aligners available: in-office aligners and at-home aligners.

In-office aligners are a more conservative option. To start treatment, you have to visit a qualified orthodontist or dentist for a consultation. Once approved, you’ll set up in-person appointments with them to track progress throughout treatment. Invisalign and ClearCorrect are the most well-known brands of in-office aligners. 

At-home aligners, also referred to as direct-to-consumer aligners, can be ordered online. Treatment is monitored remotely, which means you don’t have to visit an orthodontist in person for check-ups.

SmileDirectClub, byte, and ALIGNERCO are examples of at-home aligners. At-home aligners are more convenient and cheaper than in-office aligners but have a higher risk for complications. 

What are ClearCorrect Aligners?

ClearCorrect is an advanced system of clear aligner therapy that uses digital technologies to treat various types of misalignment, ranging from simple to severe.

For more than 14 years, ClearCorrect has helped hundreds of thousands of people achieve straighter smiles. The main benefit of ClearCorrect aligners is that they are virtually invisible. Unlike metal braces, you can remove the trays for eating, drinking, and flossing. 

The aligners provide controlled single-tooth movement. They are made of .030” polyurethane, which is a material that can handle challenging tooth movements. The aligners are also stain and crack-resistant, hand-checked by a qualified dentist, and laser-marked to ensure traceability. 

To begin treatment, patients have to visit a qualified ClearCorrect provider. You cannot order these aligners online, and treatment is monitored in person. 

Are ClearCorrect Aligners Safe & Effective?

Yes, when monitored correctly, ClearCorrect is safe and effective for many cases of teeth misalignment.

ClearCorrect’s website includes links to over 15 case studies that outline the effectiveness of the aligners.¹ Unlike at-home aligners that can only treat mild cases, ClearCorrect can fix moderate to severe misalignment issues. 

Real ClearCorrect patients also reported pleasant treatment experiences:

For example, one patient said they had no difficulties with the aligners regarding discomfort or speech. The treatment plan was also completed on time.² 

Another patient experienced consistent treatment during the second and third phases. However, by the fourth phase, the aligners weren’t sitting correctly. The orthodontist took new photos and impressions to make minor adjustments. Even with these revisions, the patient still finished treatment after 20 aligners (with no additional fees).³ 

A 15-year-old patient used ClearCorrect to fix an anterior crossbite. This is a more complex bite issue where some bottom teeth are located outside of the upper teeth when the jaw is closed. 

According to the case study, “treatment involved six phases for a total of 24 aligners and 16 months of treatment. Treatment results were very good, with only a minor midline discrepancy present.” ⁴ 

“ClearCorrect clear aligners are a valuable tool in today’s orthodontic practice.”

Julie Ann Staggers, DDS, MS Orthodontics (ClearCorrect Case Study Report)

Who is a Candidate for ClearCorrect?

You may be eligible for ClearCorrect treatment if you have: 

• Crowded teeth — when there is not enough room in the jaw for teeth to fit normally.
• Gapped teeth (diastema) — when there are small gaps between the teeth.
• An underbite — when the lower teeth stick out in front of the upper front teeth.
• An overbite — when the upper front teeth close in front of the lower teeth.
• An open bite — when the top and bottom teeth don’t meet.
• A crossbite — when the upper and lower jaws don’t align.

However, you will likely be ineligible for treatment if you have:

• Multiple missing teeth
• Short clinical crowns (teeth that are too small to hold the aligners in place)
• Dental implants or dentures
• Poor oral hygiene, cavities, gum disease, or other underlying oral health conditions
• Severe bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Any primary (baby) teeth remaining
• Very complex jaw or misalignment issues 

Can Teenagers Use ClearCorrect?

Yes. Many orthodontists recommend ClearCorrect for teenagers and adults 12 and older. However, some children and teens may require braces and headgear instead.

How Does ClearCorrect Work?

ClearCorrect treatment consists of the following steps:

1. You’ll set up an appointment with a qualified ClearCorrect dentist or orthodontist for a consultation. Dentists have to complete training to become a ClearCorrect provider.
2. During the initial appointment, your provider will take x-rays and examine your mouth. Then you’ll discuss needs and treatment plan options. 
3. After you approve the treatment plan, ClearCorrect specialists will make the aligners and then ship out the first set. They ship the aligners four sets at a time, and each shipment is known as a “phase.” Separating treatment into phases allows for any mid-treatment changes, if necessary. The number of phases varies and depends on each patient's needs. 
4. Your dentist will apply any elastics or buttons needed to help your teeth move correctly. 
5. You’ll visit your provider in person throughout treatment to track progress. They will make any adjustments to ensure your teeth are moving correctly and safely. 
6. Treatment is complete after 4 to 18 months. You’ll receive a custom-made retainer to keep your teeth straight. 

How Long Does Treatment Take?

ClearCorrect treatment takes between 4 and 18 months. Mild cases are fixed within 4 to 6 months, while more complex cases are fixed within 12 to 18 months. 

ClearCorrect vs. Other Aligners

ClearCorrect is different from competitors because they offer revisions, replacements, and refinements at a lower cost. They also send you the aligners in “phases,” instead of all at once. This allows the provider to check progress in between phases and change your treatment plan if needed. 

Read below to compare ClearCorrect to other popular aligner brands:

Invisalign vs. ClearCorrect

ClearCorrect treatment is the best alternative to Invisalign (the most well-known aligner brand). Both treatments require in-office evaluations before beginning treatment. You also have to visit your provider for check-ups throughout the process. 

ClearCorrect vs. At-Home Aligners

SmileDirectClub, byte, and ALIGNERCO are three popular brands of at-home (direct-to-consumer) aligners. 

These aligners are cheaper than traditional braces, lingual braces, Invisalign, and ClearCorrect. 

In addition to cost-effectiveness, at-home aligners do not require in-office visits before, during, or after treatment. All check-ups are completed remotely with a licensed orthodontist or dentist.

Treatment is also significantly faster. However, these aligners can only treat minor cases of teeth misalignment. 

At-home aligners have a slightly higher risk of complications because treatment is less predictable without in-office visits. However, when monitored by an experienced orthodontist, remote invisible aligner treatment is effective and safe.

How Much Do ClearCorrect Aligners Cost?

The average cost of ClearCorrect aligners is between $1,500 and $1,800. Factors that can influence the cost include:

• Case complexity
• Length of treatment
• Patterns of patient compliance (e.g., forgetting to wear the aligners or having poor oral hygiene throughout treatment)
• Any revisions or mid-treatment changes
• Chair time (appointment length)
• Any additional sets of aligners needed at the end of treatment
• Cost of other materials
• Retainers
• Where the orthodontist is located

Is Treatment Covered by Dental Insurance?

If you meet the dental insurance company's eligibility requirements, a portion of your ClearCorrect treatment may be covered. How much is covered depends on your lifetime maximum for orthodontic services. 

Do They Offer a Payment Plan?

Yes, ClearCorrect offers payment plans. Talk with your provider to determine the best option for your treatment case and length.