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 well-established 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.
Table of Contents
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 15 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.
Our Review Methodology
Smile Prep’s reviews are prepared and presented from the perspective of a well-informed consumer. Our starting point for all of our reviews is a careful survey of a company’s marketing claims and available third party customer reviews. We rely on the accuracy of company claims and do not independently verify them. Our reviews use this information to help our readers get information about the available options in a centralized location. You can learn more about our review process by checking out our publishing principles.
Scope of Treatment Comparison
Invisalign and ClearCorrect are two options for in-office aligner treatment. Combined, they’ve corrected millions of smiles, addressing all three classes of malocclusions. Still, not every smile falls within their scope of treatment.
Invisalign
ClearCorrect
- Treats all classes of malocclusions, including many skeletal components.
- Can move all the teeth, including the molars.
- Usually requires in-person check-ins every 4–10 weeks.
- Treats all classes of malocclusions, including many skeletal components.
- Can move all the teeth, including the molars.
- Usually requires in-person check-ins every 4–10 weeks.
What Invisalign and ClearCorrect Treat
Invisalign was designed to compete with metal braces, and ClearCorrect was made to compete with Invisalign — so the two systems can treat pretty much the same things. According to Align Technology, Invisalign aligners have “demonstrated success in treating Class I, II, and III malocclusions,” including:
ClearCorrect’s treatment scope depends on which of their six treatment plans you get. Flex, Mini, and One are all for mild and aesthetic changes — similar to remote aligners. Two can address moderate misalignments, Three is for moderate-to-severe ones, and Unlimited is meant for the most severe cases they can treat. Among the types of misalignments ClearCorrect can treat are:
- Crowding
- Gaps
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
- Snaggletooth
- Midline misalignment
Both aligner systems can incorporate attachments — which can improve their control and range of tooth movement — and they can move all the teeth, including molars. This includes expanding the arch when needed, though skeletal expansion usually requires additional appliances. There are some issues beyond their scope, mostly those that require significant jaw repositioning, closing significantly large gaps, making big rotations, or raising and lowering the teeth.
What Invisalign and ClearCorrect Customers Say
As you would expect, the more patients a company treats, the more online reviews they’ll have. Invisalign is the most prolific clear aligner provider, having corrected over 15 million smiles worldwide. You can find testimonials all over the internet, including some patients shared directly with us! Patients consistently report success with their treatment, even in complex cases, often giving Invisalign 4- or 5-star reviews.
ClearCorrect has a case gallery showcasing some of their award-winning results, offering before-and-after sliders, and featuring patient success stories showing both simple and complex cases. It’s good to look at some independent, unsponsored reviews as well, although they also back up the company’s claims.
Clinical Oversight
Direct supervision is essential to in-office aligner treatment. Invisalign and ClearCorrect providers both request that you schedule an office visit around every 4–10 weeks. Some dentists and orthodontists offer hybrid options, using remote monitoring tools to skip some of the in-person check-ins, but the option is always there, allowing for attachments that expand the scope of treatment.
Quality of Materials
Invisalign uses a multilayer thermoplastic polyurethane/copolyester blend called SmartTrack. ClearCorrect uses a premium tri-layer plastic, called ClearQuartz. Invisalign claims that SmartTrack can straighten teeth more predictably than other plastics, while ClearCorrect says ClearQuartz retains more force than some competitors. However, we haven’t seen research on how these two plastics compare directly.
Affordability Comparison
There’s no way around it: orthodontic treatment can be expensive, especially for in-office brands like Invisalign and ClearCorrect. That said, we think 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.
Invisalign
ClearCorrect
- No set sticker price, the average cost is $3,000–$8,000.
- Some dentists offer Invisalign Express for minor cases, and the average cost is $1,500–$4,000.
- Financing varies depending on the dentist and may require a credit check or down payment.
- No set sticker price, the average cost is $3,000–$6,000, depending on your plan.
- Offers multiple aligner plans, including one where you pay per aligner.
- Financing varies depending on the dentist and may require a credit check or down payment.
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–$6,000. 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 to eight 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 some 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. Also, know that financing plans often require a credit check and come with interest, so you might end up paying more overall.
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. When it comes to convenience, Invisalign and ClearCorrect are almost identical. And if your top priority is getting the most convenient treatment, we think you might be more satisfied with an at-home aligner company.
Invisalign
ClearCorrect
- Requires an in-person consultation with a dentist to get started, including scans and photos.
- Average treatment time is 12–18 months; the Express plan’s average treatment time is 3–6 months.
- Requires office visits every 4–10 weeks on average.
- An in-person consultation with a dentist is required to get started, including scans and photos.
- Average treatment time is 12–18 months; the Flex plan could take as little as a few months.
- Requires office visits every 4–10 weeks on average.
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 a dentist or orthodontist who offers it. 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 providers often say the treatment takes 12–18 months on average, and ClearCorrect providers typically make similar estimates. Your actual treatment time, however, will ultimately depend on your specific condition. 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 4–10 weeks apart, though some doctors will space them out as far as every twelve weeks. They’re time-consuming, but also help ensure you receive hands-on care and frequent treatment oversight. 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.
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.
Invisalign
ClearCorrect
- Aligners are slightly thicker, which might make them more visible.
- Uses a frosted, textured plastic.
- Trims aligners to match the gum line, making them less noticeable.
- Uses a thinner plastic, so they may be less noticeable.
- Uses a slightly opaque plastic.
- Cuts aligners straight across, so they may be more visible.
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 to some. ClearCorrect’s plastic is a little thinner, which could potentially make them 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 in our opinion, frosted and textured aligners generally look more natural. We think 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 improve aligners’ force transfer and distribute stress more evenly, according to a 2022 study.
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 might make your aligners slightly more visible.
Attachments
Invisalign’s SmartForce attachments and ClearCorrect’s Engagers help improve orthodontic tooth movement, 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.
Unlike remote aligner services, Invisalign and ClearCorrect let you interact in person with dentists and office staff who know you and your teeth intimately. Choose either option and we think you’ll get responsiveness, individualized care, and robust clinical oversight.
Invisalign
ClearCorrect
- Personalized, hands-on patient care.
- Dedicated, in-person oversight.
- Refinement policies vary from provider to provider.
- Personalized, hands-on patient care.
- Dedicated, in-person oversight.
- Refinement policies depend on your plan.
Patient Support
With either Invisalign or ClearCorrect, you will direct any questions and concerns to your dentist or orthodontist’s office. Even though the quality of support will vary on the specific office you choose, we have found that in-person options typically deliver highly personalized and responsive care. Many people get peace of mind from having a dedicated point of contact that knows them and their 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 4–10 weeks, but it gives your dentist the chance to evaluate your progress, address your concerns, and ensure that you have a smooth, comfortable 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.
Who Should Choose Invisalign?
If you value experience, reputation, and state-of-the-art technology, and don’t mind paying a little more for it, Invisalign could be a great option.
Who Should Choose ClearCorrect?
If you’re cost-conscious, but don’t want to sacrifice one-on-one dental care, check out ClearCorrect.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get started with Invisalign or ClearCorrect?
You’ll need to visit your dentist or orthodontist for a consultation. They will make impressions or take scans of your teeth to create your treatment plan and aligners. After evaluating your condition’s severity, they can give you an estimate for how long your treatment will last and how much it will cost.
What’s the difference between Invisalign and ClearCorrect?
They’re actually pretty similar. Both companies administer clear aligner treatment through regular dentist’s office visits, and both can incorporate supplemental attachments to treat more complex cases. Invisalign has quite a bit more experience and a larger customer base, but ClearCorrect can be cheaper.
How much do Invisalign and ClearCorrect cost?
It depends on a few different factors, like your condition’s severity, your location, insurance coverage, and your dentist’s pricing model. But Invisalign usually costs $3,000–$8,000. ClearCorrect, however, usually costs slightly less ($2,000–$6,000) because they charge their providers less for lab fees.
How long do Invisalign and ClearCorrect take?
The average timeline for Invisalign and ClearCorrect is around 12–18 months, but this can change based on your condition’s severity and how consistently you wear your aligners. A significant jaw misalignment, for example, will take longer to correct than a minor case of crowding.
What conditions can Invisalign and ClearCorrect treat?
Just about all of them. Both treatments receive consistent in-office oversight, where your dentist or orthodontist has the chance to adjust your aligner plan or add supplemental attachments (like elastics or buttons) to increase their versatility. This gives your aligners the power to handle almost anything.
How do Invisalign and ClearCorrect compare to home aligner companies?
The main difference is that at-home aligner treatments don’t require any office visits. You’ll administer the treatment entirely on your own. Invisalign and ClearCorrect require office visits every 4–10 weeks, on average, so that your dentist or orthodontist can check in on your progress, employ attachments, and adjust your treatment plan (if necessary).
The lack of office visits makes home aligners cheaper and faster, but it also makes them incapable of correcting certain conditions (like bite misalignments).
What other companies should I consider?
We think Invisalign and ClearCorrect are both excellent options, especially if you’re looking for comprehensive treatment to correct a severe case of misalignment or complex bite issue. However, if your case is milder and more straightforward, there are many more affordable clear aligners worth considering. To learn about all your options and how they compare, visit our review of the six best clear aligners.
What is the cheapest clear aligner company?
AlignerCo. At just $995, their price beats every competitor we reviewed by a few hundred dollars, and sometimes they run promotions that drop it even lower. And if you can’t pay that up front, you can jump on a financing plan, regardless of your credit score. Check out our complete AlignerCo review for more info, or find other great-value options in our guide to the most affordable home aligners.
Does insurance cover clear aligners?
It might. Some dental insurance plans cover Invisalign the same way they would cover braces. They won’t often cover treatment if it’s considered “cosmetic,” though, so you’ll need to consult your specific dentist and insurance provider to find out.
Are home aligners safe?
At-home clear aligner treatment plans are always designed and/or approved by a licensed dentist or orthodontist — as long as you’re buying from a legitimate clear aligner service.
The main concern regarding the safety of fully-remote clear aligner treatment is the lack of face-to-face care. Since you won’t be seeing a dentist in-person during treatment, you won’t receive the same level of support that you’d get with traditional in-office aligners like Invisalign or ClearCorrect. That said, a recent NIH-funded survey found the majority of at-home aligner customers were satisfied with their results, and only 6.6% experienced side effects necessitating a visit to their local dentist.
Read our guide to safe home teeth straightening treatment for more information.
Do clear aligners hurt?
When you switch to a new aligner set every two weeks, you might experience some discomfort for the first day or two, but after that, you’ll hardly notice them.
Russ says
The clear correct case is quite challenging to use. It doesn’t snap or click shut like my night guard tray or prior retainers have. So whenever I drop it, the tray I put in my mouth falls on the dirty ground or floor including the other day in sewer water which of course makes me nauseous as you can imagine. For $5000, we should get a tray that snaps shut!