Approximately 4 million people in the U.S. wear braces, and millions more are looking for ways to get straighter teeth without spending a fortune. Invisible braces offer an aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional metal braces but can often come with an expensive price tag. 

Invisible braces can cost anywhere from  $1,800 to $10,000. But what if you don't have that kind of money to spend on braces? Don't worry! There are plenty of ways to get your perfect smile without breaking the bank. 

In this article, we'll reveal where to find the cheapest invisible braces and how to save with Accrue Savings to get a straighter smile without exceeding your budget.

There are three main teeth straightening treatment options available: traditional metal braces, clear aligners (also known as invisible braces), and removable retainers. The right type of treatment for you depends on the severity of your misalignment and your budget.

Traditional braces

Traditional braces consist of brackets cemented to the teeth and connected with a thin archwire that an orthodontist tightens over time to gradually move teeth into place. This is often the best option for severe misalignments. Traditional braces come in a variety of options, including conventional metal, ceramic, lingual, and self-ligating brackets. 

• Convention metal braces are standard braces that use rubber bands to keep the archwire connected to the metal brackets. 
• Ceramic braces use tooth-colored brackets instead of metal, making them less noticeable.
• Lingual braces are placed behind the teeth and hidden from view.
• Self-ligating braces use a hinge mechanism to hold the archwire in place, rather than rubber bands.

Traditional braces are highly visible and can be uncomfortable, and they also require in-office treatment and frequent visits to the orthodontist for adjustments every four to eight weeks. Depending on the severity of the case, traditional braces may need to be worn for anywhere from 12-24 months.

Clear aligners or invisible braces

Clear aligners, also called invisible braces, use a series of custom-made trays that fit over the teeth to move them into the desired position gradually. Clear aligners work well for moderate cases of spacing, crowding, and crookedness. 

Unlike traditional braces, you can remove invisible aligners when eating, flossing, or brushing. So you don't have to worry about food getting stuck in your braces or having to monitor what you eat constantly.

Clear aligners are typically worn for four to six months, depending on the severity of the case, and they may require periodic adjustments. Because they are virtually invisible, clear aligners can be a great option for patients who want to conveniently straighten their teeth without anyone noticing.

Removable retainers

Removable retainers are custom-made dental appliances that fit over your teeth like a mouth guard. They hold your teeth in the desired position after you have removed your braces. They are typically worn full-time for the first four to six months after braces and then part-time for the rest of your life to maintain your desired results.

They work to hold teeth in place, preventing them from returning to their original positions. Retainers are comfortable and easy to use and can be taken out for cleaning or eating. They need to be checked by your dentist every six months to ensure they're still fitting properly. 

When straightening your teeth, invisible braces are not necessarily the cheapest option. Clear aligners can range from approximately $1,800 to $10,000. Traditional metal braces typically cost less than invisible braces, with an average price of around $3,000 to $7,000.

Clear aligners cost more because they are a newer technology, requiring additional investments in the manufacturing process. However, although invisible braces can be more expensive up-front, they are often more cost-effective in the long run. 

Since you don't need to visit a dentist for periodic adjustments with invisible braces, there are no additional or unexpected costs. Whereas, you may have to pay for adjustments and repairs throughout the treatment process with traditional braces, increasing the overall cost.

Before purchasing invisible braces, you should evaluate each brand and consider their:

Cost effectiveness

The cost of invisible braces can vary greatly from one provider to the next, so compare prices to ensure you get a good deal. It is also worth considering any additional fees or hidden charges that may come with the braces, such as follow-up appointments or replacement fees, which can add to the overall cost. 

Determine how much you can realistically afford and make sure that the cost fits your budget. You can also research any financing options available. Many providers offer payment plan options that allow you to pay for the treatment cost over time. 

However, you can also save for your invisible braces with Accrue Savings. Accrue Savings is a great way to save toward your goals, including teeth straightening, plus you can get money toward your purchases from our partners. 

Treatment plan guidance

It is essential that you understand the estimated duration of treatment, the number of aligners or adjustments required, and any specific instructions or restrictions during the treatment process. For example, no eating hard or sticky foods and no smoking.

You should also determine whether or not the treatment requires regular appointments or consultations with a dentist or orthodontist. This will ensure that the plan meets your needs, goals, and budget.

Customization options

When selecting a brand of invisible braces, ensure they are custom-made to fit your teeth and address the misalignment. Customization options help ensure the braces fit properly and provide maximum comfort. Check for advanced imaging, bite-correcting technology, and other features that can help tailor the braces to your needs. 

Ratings and reviews

Reading reviews and ratings before selecting an invisible braces provider is always a good idea. Look for customer testimonials, feedback, and other information to help you make an informed decision.

Check the company's overall reliability, including their customer service quality and how they handle issues like returns or repairs. A good company should have a strong track record of customer satisfaction and be willing to answer any questions you might have.

While clear braces can be expensive, there are several cost-effective options. The cheapest clear aligner brands currently include:

SmileDirectClub

SmileDirectClub is a direct-to-consumer provider of invisible braces. Their aligners are made with 3D imaging and BPA-free plastic and are customized to fit the individual needs of the user. They offer monthly payment plans, at-home impression kits, and free virtual consultations with orthodontists or dentists to ensure you get the right fit.

They offer two types of teeth aligner options:

• Nighttime aligners are worn when sleeping. You’ll need to wear them for at least 10 continuous hours a night for 8-10 months.
• The original aligners should be worn for at least 22 hours a day. They straighten teeth in as little as four to six months, depending on the severity of the misalignment.

Features

• BPA-free plastic
• Easily removable
• Customized to fit your individual needs
• Easy to clean
• Free virtual consultations with orthodontists or dentists
• Payment plans available

Pricing

SmileDirectClub aligners typically cost between $2,000 and $3,000, however, they have partnered with Accrue Savings to help you save for your perfect smile. When you save for your aligners using Accrue Savings, SmileDirectClub will kick in 20% of your savings goal. After reaching your goal, you can purchase debt-free via a virtual debit card!

AlignerCo

AlignerCo is a leading provider of invisible braces that offers convenient and affordable treatment options.  They use state-of-the-art technology to scan and design each customized aligner, and they also offer a satisfaction guarantee and free shipping on all orders.

Features

• Free shipping and doorstep delivery
• Satisfaction guarantee
• Free consultation with a dental professional
• 3D imaging technology for scans
• Customizable treatment plans
• Affordable monthly payments and one-time payment options

Pricing

When you pay for your full treatment upfront, aligners cost $920-$1,120, and retainers are $100-400. AlignerCo also offers monthly payment plans for an additional fee, so you can pay out your treatment over six or 12 months.

Byte

Byte is an innovative orthodontic company that offers advanced and affordable invisible at-home aligners. Their aligners are made from medical-grade plastic and fit snugly over your teeth for a comfortable, barely visible look. You’ll need to order an impression kit to create molds that the Byte specialists will use to custom-craft your braces. 

The average treatment time with Byte is only six months — much faster than traditional orthodontic treatment. Every customer gets a Hyperbyte device that uses high-frequency vibrations to move teeth into place faster and more comfortably. 

Features

• Fast and convenient
• Medical-grade plastic aligners
• No metal brackets or wires
• Advanced digital scan and 3D printing technology
• Ships directly to your door
• Professional monitoring and support at every step of the way.

Pricing

The cost of Byte invisible braces depends on your treatment plan but typically starts at $1,999. Byte has also partnered with Accrue Savings to make braces more accessible and affordable than ever before. You will pay up to $250 less on Byte invisible braces when you start saving with Accrue Savings. This makes Byte one of the most affordable and accessible invisible brace solutions available today.

Strayt

Strayt is an at-home invisible aligner system that straightens crooked teeth quickly, conveniently, and affordably — without office visits. They use an online assessment process to determine if you are a good candidate for their aligners.

Once approved, Strayt will send you an impression kit containing everything you need to create molds. Then Strayt will use a thin thermoplastic material to create custom aligners that are comfortable to wear and nearly invisible to others. 

During your treatment, they will also provide a mobile professional who comes to your home and checks your progress. 

Features

• At-home impression kit for easy 3D modeling of your smile
• Virtually invisible and comfortable to wear
• Personalized treatment plan with a mobile professional
• Affordable HSA- or FSA-approved payments 

Pricing

Strayt offers affordable pricing plans, with a typical treatment cost of $1,596. The price varies depending on the severity and complexity of your case. In addition, they accept HSA/FSA payments and offer a pay-as-you-go plan that allows you to make monthly payments throughout your treatment.

Accrue Savings helps people save for big purchases, such as invisible braces. It allows users to set up a personalized account for a set savings goal. You can save at your pace without worrying about fees or restrictions. 

We partner with popular brands to help you save for the things you want — debt free. With Accrue x Byte, you can earn up to 20% when saving for your aligners, helping you reach your savings goal faster.

Accrue Savings can help you smile confidently without high costs

Invisible braces can give you a new smile without the high cost of traditional braces. Dental insurance doesn’t always cover invisible braces, but there are ways to make them more affordable. Accrue Savings is an excellent solution for those saving for invisible braces. 

Our platform makes saving money easier, so you can confidently smile without breaking the bank. Take advantage of this great opportunity and get the smile you've always wanted without going into debt. Start saving now at Accrue Savings and get 20% off when you purchase from one of our partners!

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