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SmileDirectClub is one of the most popular clear aligner companies. You don’t need to visit your dentist or orthodontist during the treatment. They offer at-home aligners so you can straighten your teeth from the comfort of your own home.
The following providers have partnerships with SmileDirectClub:
If your particular insurance provider is not listed here, you must pay full price and request reimbursement from your insurance provider afterward. SmileDirectClub will provide the necessary forms for you to file your claim.
Notice: SmileDirectClub filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on September 29, 2023. The company plans to "maintain normal operations" as it restructures debts and seeks a buyer or funding. The founders invested $20 million and committed more to ensure SmileDirectClub can meet commitments without disruption. However, successful reorganization is not guaranteed.
Before insurance, SmileDirectClub aligners cost $2,250. Depending on your insurance, this cost could be reduced by up to half.
Sale: $15 impression kit - FREE after return, plus 6 months FREE teeth whitening. Code: NYNY23
Clear aligners can save you thousands of dollars compared to braces. Learn about clear aligners.
SmileDirectClub provides an eligibility-checker tool on their website to check your insurance coverage. It can also determine how much your provider will cover if they cover some treatment costs.
Many providers also allow you to check your coverage by logging into your account. You can also call them to check with them directly.
Consumer Assistance Programs (CAP) are available for people who need help understanding their health insurance options in most states. Your state’s CAP can help you know what benefits you’re entitled to.
SmileDirectClub doesn't guarantee you'll get reimbursed. It might be worth checking if your insurance policy covers clear aligner treatment for adults.
Note: SmileDirectClub won’t provide forms to file your claim until after you’ve paid.
You can file an appeal if you think your claim was wrongly denied. First, the insurance company will review the denial internally. You can submit the appeal to an independent state or federal government body if they still deny it.
You can also contact your insurance company directly for clarification. This option is best if the denial was because your claim didn't qualify under your plan.
We recommend at-home clear aligners if you have mild teeth misalignment. View our top recommendations.
Many health insurers cover orthodontics for children, but orthodontic coverage for adults is uncommon.
Providers known for offering adult orthodontic treatment coverage include (but aren’t limited to):
The amount you are reimbursed varies from one insurance company to another. A provider may cover a certain percentage or dollar amount of your treatment. There are often lifetime limits on coverage as well.
If you’re worried your insurance plan won’t pay, SmileDirectClub offers several other ways to reduce the cost.
SmileDirectClub accepts FSA and HSA. Many employer-sponsored insurance plans offer flexible spending accounts (FSA) or health savings accounts (HSA).
SmileDirectClub allows you to pay for treatment via monthly installments. With SmilePay, you can make a downpayment of $250 and monthly payments of $89 for 26 months. No credit checks are required.
Due to interest, this option may bring your total to as high as $2,564—much greater than the original $2,250 price. Interest rates with SmilePay range from 10% to 21% (depending on your state).
Clear aligners, like Invisalign, are usually covered by insurance in the same way as braces. However, some insurers consider at-home clear aligners, like SDC, “DIY” treatments and decline to provide coverage.
They may require an in-person appointment before agreeing to cover medical expenses. You may increase your chances of coverage if you start treatment in-person at a SmileShop location. The initial consultation is free of charge.
It's best to check with your insurance company directly before pursuing treatment.
Interested in straightening your teeth at home? Here are the best clear aligner companies.
Founded back in 2014, SmileDirectClub is the oldest at-home clear aligner company, offering completely remote treatment monitoring. Here’s an overview of treatment:
There are three ways to start treatment:
Impression kits have a free teeth whitening treatment to brighten your new smile.
SmileDirectClub will send you a box with all the aligners you need for the treatment. You must change the aligners every 1 to 2 weeks or as needed. You’ll have virtual check-ins during the treatment to help monitor your progress.
Treatment time for SmileDirectClub aligners is 4 to 6 months on average, which is on par with most clear aligner brands. However, it’s significantly faster than both Invisalign and traditional braces. For comparison, Invisalign treatment takes 6 to 24 months to straighten teeth; braces take 16 to 24 months.
SmileDirectClub also has a Lifetime Smile Guarantee. They provide the following:
Sale: $15 impression kit - FREE after return, plus 6 months FREE teeth whitening. Code: NYNY23
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What’s Next?
The most popular at-home clear aligner kits can be found right here:
