Invisalign vs. ClearCorrect: How They Actually Compare

With all of the hype surrounding at-home aligners, it can be easy to forget that for years, adults have seen incredible results from in-office aligners administered by their dentist. And among all the companies supplying these treatments, Invisalign and ClearCorrect are two of the most popular.

As the original clear aligner system, Invisalign has firmly rooted itself atop the market. But, ClearCorrect is also highly experienced and respected among dentists and patients alike. As in-office options, Invisalign and ClearCorrect offer very similar treatments, but they’re not exactly the same. If you’re deciding between them, read on for all the differences you should consider.

Company Overviews

The esteem of being the original clear aligner can only go to one company: Invisalign. Over two decades ago, a dental technology company called Align Technology developed the first clear aligner series, Invisalign, which commanded the clear aligner market for nearly ten years. They quickly implemented an ambitious marketing campaign, partnered with dentists and orthodontists across the country, and had transformed 175,000 smiles by 2004.

Today, Invisalign maintains its position atop the clear aligner industry. They partner with 100,000 dentists in 90 countries and have treated over 12 million patients.

Invisalign commanded the market unopposed for years — then a few competitors hit the scene, and ClearCorrect was one of the most prominent. Dr. Willis Pumphrey needed a clear aligner option for nearly 400 of his patients, so he created his own. A grassroots network of dentists began to sign on for his treatment, and in just a few years, ClearCorrect was directly competing with Invisalign. They’ve continuously refined their products and processes. And today, they’re one of the industry’s largest aligner producers with tens of thousands of providers around the world.

Effectiveness Comparison

This is where Invisalign and ClearCorrect both excel, especially compared to home aligner options. Having a dentist directly oversee your treatment allows both brands to effectively treat a wide range of conditions and make mid-treatment adjustments. Both use very similar processes, so to find any notable differences, we have to dig deeper. While each company provides high-quality products, and safe, customized procedures, there are a couple of distinguishing features you should consider.

Aligner Material

For a while, both Invisalign and ClearCorrect aligners used plastic from a trusted, experienced dental materials company called Zendura. More recently, Invisalign has shifted to a patented material called SmartTrack, which they have specially developed to work with their aligners. Invisalign claims that SmartTrack facilitates 50% faster treatment times, 75% more predictable movements, and increased comfort.

ClearCorrect continued with the original plastic for several years after Invisalign stopped. However, in 2020, they developed their own proprietary material specifically for aligners, called ClearQuartz. According to the company, it offers superior flexibility while still generating the force required for moving teeth.

Technology

Each company uses software to scan your teeth, create 3D models of your dental arches, and simulate your treatment plan. Invisalign uses a proven 3D scanner system called iTero, paired with custom software called ClinCheck, which uses algorithms to model ideal movements for each tooth. iTero scanners and ClinCheck software both have long track records of success and pair specifically with Invisalign’s treatment.

ClearCorrect accepts scans from a number of different in-office scanners, including iTero and several others. They don’t use ClinCheck, but they have similar software that they call a ClearPilot. ClearCorrect allows its dentists more flexibility in the technology they use. The downside is that a particular technology setup may not be specialized for their aligner treatment.

Additional Attachments

One of the primary benefits of in-office aligners is the ability to enhance treatment with various orthodontic attachments like elastics. These appliances allow for larger or more complex teeth movements, and both Invisalign and ClearCorrect can use them. Plus, each company has its own proprietary attachments that can assist in treating severe cases.

Invisalign calls these “SmartForce” attachments. They’re tiny, barely noticeable shapes affixed to your teeth exteriors that help direct and amplify the force of the aligners, shifting teeth more effectively. ClearCorrect uses very similar attachments that they call “Engagers,” which perform essentially the same job as SmartForce attachments.

Affordability Comparison

There’s no way around it: orthodontic treatment can be expensive, especially for in-office brands like Invisalign and ClearCorrect. That said, the services you receive are high-quality and comprehensive.

But if you’re worried about your budget or wondering how you’ll be able to fit in dental expenses, finding affordable treatment is important. Neither of these companies is especially inexpensive, but both can potentially incorporate insurance coverage and financing to make the costs more manageable. Overall, ClearCorrect is often more affordable, but it depends on your dentist and specific condition.

Average Cost

Glance over any at-home aligner company’s website, and you’ll find—usually in large, bold text—their upfront price.

Invisalign and ClearCorrect, however, don’t put similar information out there. This is because their costs can vary significantly based on your dentist and the severity of your condition. Think of it this way: severe misalignments take longer to treat, which means more office visits and more aligners. Both cost money, so you’ll end up paying more. Home aligner companies can advertise static prices because they only use up to a specific number of aligners across the board, and they don’t require office visits.

Even so, each company has an average price range, and typically, ClearCorrect is cheaper than Invisalign. They charge dentists less for products and lab fees than Invisalign does, so your dentist may pass these savings on to you. Invisalign usually costs $3,000–$8,000, while ClearCorrect often runs $2,000–$5,500. But again, this depends on your condition and dentist. Either one of these treatments can end up falling outside these ranges in certain circumstances.

Plan Options

If those average costs seem intimidating, keep in mind that the full Invisalign or ClearCorrect treatment isn’t your only option. Both companies offer more limited treatment plans at lower costs for more minor cases.

Invisalign, for example, has a shorter treatment plan called Invisalign Express, which consists of 5, 7, or 10 aligner sets rather than the typical 25 or more. You will only need to wear these aligners for around 4–6 months and they typically cost $1,500–$4,000. However, Invisalign Express only works for mild cases of crowding and spacing, most often in the front six teeth.

Not to be outdone, ClearCorrect also offers shorter, less expensive treatment options. Their Mini plan gives you 12 aligners, One gives you up to 24, Two provides up to 48, and Three includes up to 72. Plus, they have a more flexible alternative appropriately named “Flex.” This plan allows you to pay per aligner, so if you only need 15 aligners, you won’t pay for anything extra. For anyone with a minor case of crowding or spacing, this can save a bunch of money.

By comparison, ClearCorrect’s “Unlimited” plan charges a flat rate for as many aligners as you need for five years and includes post-treatment retainers. This flat rate depends on your dentist’s pricing.

What About Insurance?

If you have orthodontic coverage on your insurance plan, chances are your provider will partially cover your treatment costs. Your dentist’s office can accept payments directly from your insurer, so they can handle everything in-house. You should contact your insurance company to see if they offer coverage before committing to treatment.

Some at-home aligner companies can’t accept insurance payments directly, so you will need to pay for the treatment, then file for reimbursement. On top of that, some insurers will only cover in-office aligner treatments.

Financing Options

Quite often, you can acquire financing for your aligner treatment and pay over several months instead of all at once. This financing, however, depends on what your dentist or orthodontist offers. You should check with them to see what options are available.

Invisalign doesn’t partner with any specific financing companies, but ClearCorrect offers its providers and their patients financing through a third-party company called CareCredit. This doesn’t mean, however, that your provider will necessarily use CareCredit; they might have other options and payment plans.

Convenience Comparison

In-office aligner companies aren’t typically known for their convenience. This is primarily because they require regular office visits, which can eat up your free time. But, it’s also because their timelines are typically longer than at-home treatments. When it comes to convenience, Invisalign and ClearCorrect are almost identical. And if your top priority is getting the most convenient treatment, you might be more satisfied with an at-home aligner company.

Getting Started

The startup process is the same for both Invisalign and ClearCorrect, and it’s pretty simple. All you need to do is schedule a consultation with your dentist or orthodontist. During the appointment, you will discuss your treatment options, and they can make a recommendation. If you choose a particular clear aligner option, your dentist will take digital scans and photos of your teeth and facial structure and use them to develop your treatment plan.

Treatment Time

Invisalign states that their treatment typically takes 12–18 months, but your treatment time will ultimately depend on your specific condition. ClearCorrect doesn’t give any specific timelines on their website, but it’s likely fairly similar. This is assuming, of course, that you follow the recommended wear schedule. Both companies say that you should wear your aligners for around 22 hours per day, removing them only to eat and drink.

If you’re a candidate for Invisalign Express or ClearCorrect’s limited plans, your treatment time could be significantly shorter, potentially just a few months.

Office Visits

Both Invisalign and ClearCorrect require regular office visits, which are usually 4–6 weeks apart, though some doctors will space them out as far as every twelve weeks. They’re time-consuming, but also help ensure the safety and effectiveness of your treatment. During these appointments, your doctor will examine your teeth, add or adjust attachments, provide new aligners, and answer any questions you have. And if you have any concerns between appointments, you can always call to schedule an additional visit.

Comfort

We mentioned earlier that each company uses different materials in their aligner construction. As a result, each aligner feels slightly different in your mouth. Invisalign’s SmartTrack material is slightly thicker and more flexible. The company claims that their aligners are more comfortable and easier to insert and remove. ClearCorrect’s tri-layer ClearQuartz is also thick, but not quite as flexible as SmartTrack, so some customers might find them slightly less comfortable.

Appearance Comparison

You will need to wear your aligners everywhere—work, home, social gatherings, dates, etc. So, you likely want the least noticeable aligners available. Even though all clear aligners are less visible than traditional braces, aligner aesthetics can differ from company to company.

Out of all the categories in this guide, appearance is perhaps the most subjective. Each person has his or her own unique tastes and preferences, so different people will like different types of aligners. As you compare, it’s best to consider your own aesthetic preferences.

Aligner Thickness

We mentioned briefly that Invisalign’s aligners are slightly thicker than ClearCorrect’s. This might make them more comfortable and sturdy, but it can also mean that they’re more visible. ClearCorrect’s plastic is a little thinner, so they can be less noticeable.

Aligner Clarity

Both Invisalign and ClearCorrect aligners have a slightly frosted, textured surface. But if you look at them side by side, you’ll notice that ClearCorrect’s aligners are slightly more opaque. Your teeth are porous and have a naturally matte surface, so frosted and textured aligners generally look more natural. Both are great options, and your dentist may have samples for you to examine as you make your decision.

Aligner Cut

There are two different ways to trim an aligner: straight across the top or scalloped to match your gum line. ClearCorrect uses a straight cut while Invisalign scallops theirs. Without any attachments or engagers, a straight cut can move the teeth more quickly, as it can leverage the gums to exert more force.

Invisalign uses attachments to anchor their aligners and apply the same force, but when ClearCorrect also uses attachments, their force could surpass that of Invisalign. Regarding appearance, a straight cut overlaps your gums and can make your aligners slightly more visible.

Attachments

Invisalign’s SmartForce attachments and ClearCorrect’s Engagers increase the power of their aligners, empowering more complex dental shifts. But since dentists affix them to the front surfaces of your teeth, they also increase visibility. Attachments are often tooth-colored, so they don’t stand out too much, but observant bystanders might still notice them.

Patient Experience Comparison

Beginning clear aligner treatment is like starting a new relationship. It takes commitment, but in the end, it’s worth it. And any healthy relationship requires effective communication and problem-solving for a great overall experience.

As in-office treatments, Invisalign and ClearCorrect deliver a highly personalized patient experience. Unlike remote aligner services, you’ll interact in person with dentists and office staff who know you and your teeth intimately. Choose either option and you’ll get responsiveness, individualized care, and robust clinical oversight.

Patient Support

With either Invisalign or ClearCorrect, you will direct any questions, concerns, etc. to your dentist or orthodontist’s office. This gives you a responsive and always-available point of contact that knows you and your teeth personally. By comparison, the customer support for home aligner companies is entirely remote, and you often won’t have a single representative dedicated to your case.

Oversight

On top of that, you’ll receive consistent in-person oversight to make sure your treatment stays on track. It might be inconvenient to schedule an office visit every 4–6 weeks, but it gives your dentist the chance to evaluate your progress, address your concerns, and ensure that you have a smooth, comfortable, and effective treatment.

Satisfaction Guarantee

It rarely happens, but sometimes a patient will reach the end of treatment and find that their results do not match their expectations or the original treatment preview.

With Invisalign, your dentist may or may not include refinements in the cost of your treatment. With ClearCorrect, it depends more on the plan you select. The Mini and Flex plans don’t include any refinements, the One plan includes one, Two includes two, and Three includes three. If you opt for the Unlimited plan, however, you get all the aligners you need for five years, including refinements. And if your teeth shift even a few years after treatment is complete, you can get more aligners to fix them.

Which Should You Choose?

As one dentist put it in his review, “It’s like choosing between a Ford and a Chevy.” Both companies provide very similar services, products, and results. With either one, you will receive dedicated, one-on-one treatment from a dentist and an aligner plan that can treat everything from minor crowding and spacing to severe bite misalignments.