Compare Cost: Clear Aligners vs. Traditional Braces

Choosing between clear aligners and traditional braces is a big decision. It’s not just about which one looks better or feels more comfortable—it’s also about cost. A lot of people want to know, “Which option is more affordable?” and the truth is, it depends.

Clear aligners offer a discreet and removable way to straighten teeth, while traditional braces provide a structured, fixed treatment that works for all cases. Both options get the job done, but the price can vary based on materials, treatment time, insurance coverage, and follow-up visits.

At Smilebliss, we help patients compare costs, explore payment plans, and find the best orthodontic treatment for their budget. Let’s break it all down so you can see exactly what you’re paying for and decide which treatment fits your budget and lifestyle best.

How Much Do Clear Aligners and Braces Cost?

The cost of orthodontic treatment depends on several things, including the complexity of your case, how long you’ll need treatment, and where you go for care. But to give you a general idea:

Treatment Option	Estimated Cost	Best For
Clear Aligners	$3,000 – $7,500	Mild to moderate cases, fewer office visits, discreet treatment.
Metal Braces	$2,500 – $7,000	Mild to severe misalignment, budget-friendly.
Ceramic Braces	$3,000 – $8,000	Less noticeable than metal, slightly higher cost.
Lingual Braces	$5,000 – $13,000	Hidden behind teeth, most expensive option.

 

At first glance, traditional braces seem to be the most budget-friendly, while clear aligners and ceramic braces fall somewhere in the middle. Lingual braces, which are placed behind your teeth, tend to be the priciest because they require more specialized work.

Why Do Prices Vary? What Affects the Cost of Treatment?

Materials and Manufacturing

Clear aligners are made using 3D scanning and custom-printed plastic trays. Every few weeks, you switch to a new set that gradually moves your teeth into place.

Because each aligner is unique to the patient, this customization increases production costs.

Traditional metal braces use metal or ceramic brackets and wires, which are mass-produced and manually adjusted over time. Since they don’t require digital customization for every step of the process, they tend to cost less upfront.

Treatment Time and Complexity

• Clear aligners are usually worn for 6 to 24 months, depending on how much movement your teeth need. They work best for mild to moderate cases.
• Braces are used for more complex cases and may need to stay on for 12 to 36 months.

If your case is more complicated, treatment could take longer and involve additional trays, refinements, or extra adjustments—all of which can add to the final cost.

Office Visits and Adjustments

Metal braces require in-office adjustments every 4 to 8 weeks. Since each visit involves tightening the wires and checking progress, these frequent appointments can add to the overall cost.

Clear aligners typically need fewer visits, and some providers even offer remote check-ins using digital scans. Fewer office visits can mean lower overall costs, but some patients still need occasional in-person visits for refinements.

Post-Treatment Retainers

No matter which option you choose, you’ll need a retainer after treatment to keep your teeth from shifting. Some orthodontic offices include retainers in the total cost, while others charge separately—usually between $200 and $600 per set.

Does Insurance Cover Clear Aligners and Braces?

Most insurance plans cover orthodontic treatment, but how much they cover depends on your policy.

• Braces are more likely to be covered than clear aligners.
• Most insurance plans offer $1,000 to $3,000 toward treatment costs.
• Some policies exclude clear aligners, meaning you might have to pay more out of pocket.

Here’s a quick look at how insurance compares:

Insurance Coverage	Clear Aligners	Traditional Braces
Typically Covered?	Sometimes	Yes
Coverage Amount	$1,000 – $3,000	$1,000 – $3,000
Restrictions	Some plans exclude aligners	More widely accepted

 

It’s always a good idea to check with your provider to see what’s covered. Some orthodontic offices, like Smilebliss, even offer insurance verification services to help you understand your benefits before you start treatment.

Financing and Payment Plans

Since orthodontic treatment can be a big financial commitment, many providers offer monthly payment plans to make costs more manageable.

Flexible Payment Plans

Most orthodontic offices allow you to split the cost over 12 to 24 months instead of paying everything upfront. Some even offer zero-interest financing if you qualify.

Third-Party Financing

If in-house payment plans aren’t an option, you can also look into third-party financing through companies like CareCredit, LendingPoint, and Sunbit. These allow you to pay over time, but interest rates may vary depending on your credit score.

Using HSA or FSA Funds

If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you can use those funds to pay for treatment. Because these accounts use pre-tax dollars, they help you save money on out-of-pocket costs.

Which Option is More Cost-Effective?

The best option depends on your budget, treatment goals, and insurance coverage.

Clear Aligners Might Be Better If:

• You have mild to moderate misalignment and want fewer office visits.
• You prefer a removable, virtually invisible option.
• You have a flexible budget or access to financing options.

Traditional Braces Might Be a Better Choice If:

• You have severe misalignment or bite issues.
• You want a lower-cost option with better insurance coverage.
• You don’t mind regular office visits for adjustments.

Both options work well, but the right choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and treatment needs.

Finding the Best Fit for Your Budget

Cost is important, but it’s not the only thing to think about. When deciding between invisible aligners and braces, consider:

• How much correction you need—Mild cases might be fine with aligners, but complex issues may require braces.
• Your insurance benefits—Some policies cover braces but not aligners.
• Your daily routine—Are you responsible enough to wear aligners 22 hours a day, or would braces be the better option?

A consultation with an orthodontic provider can help you get an accurate cost estimate and explore payment options.

Get Affordable Orthodontic Treatment at Smilebliss

At Smilebliss, we offer affordable financing, flexible payment plans, and insurance-friendly options to help you achieve a confident, healthy smile—without breaking the bank.

Schedule a consultation today and find the best treatment for your needs and budget!