Dental Aligners (Price Everything You Need to Know)

4 Nov 2025 | Blog Posts, Orthodontics FAQ

Dental aligners: prices, options and advice to make a good choice

Have you ever found yourself smiling in front of your mirror and telling yourself that a small adjustment would make all the difference? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of people dream of improving their smile, whether with metal braces or dental aligners. But be careful, before you start, there are a few things to know, especially when it comes to the price of dental aligners.

Why dental aligners are so attractive

If you’ve ever thought about straightening your teeth without wearing traditional braces, you’ve probably heard of invisible dental aligners. These small, transparent devices have revolutionized orthodontics in recent years.

What makes these dental aligners so popular is their discretion. You can wear them to work, on a date, or even during an important presentation, without anyone really noticing. A dental aligner is a bit like having a secret that works for you 24 hours a day.

But let’s be honest: it’s not just about aesthetics. Dental aligners also offer comfort but you have to be diligent, which is why for example some children (and even some teenagers) are better off with traditional braces and regular visits to the orthodontist. Imagine being able to remove your device to eat an ear of corn or bite into an apple without fear. It’s this kind of little freedom that really changes the game on a daily basis.

What exactly is a dental aligner?

A dental aligner is a clear, custom-molded brace that covers the teeth to gradually move them to the correct position. Think of it as an invisible mold that gently guides your teeth to where they should be.

The process is fascinating when you think about it. Your orthodontist takes a digital impression of your mouth, and then a specialized lab creates a series of aligners that are slightly different from each other. You change aligners every one to two weeks, and each new step brings your teeth closer to the ideal alignment. It’s a bit like a marathon in small steps, where each aligner moves you forward a millimeter towards your end goal.

The magic lies in the precision of these devices. Thanks to 3D technology and modern materials, the aligners exert millimeter-sized pressure on your teeth. Nothing is left to chance.

Why choose Dental Aligners?

Beyond the financial aspect, there are real practical reasons for the craze for dental aligners. Here are a few.

Invisibility, of course. This is the key argument. No one will notice that you are undergoing orthodontic treatment unless you say so. For working adults or for teenagers who are a little embarrassed, this is a major advantage.

The comfort is also undeniable. The aligners are made of a smooth plastic that does not irritate your cheeks or lips, unlike metal brackets that can cause small painful injuries, especially at first.

Security of tenure really changes everyday life. You can remove your aligners to eat, which means no dietary restrictions. Want to bite into an apple or enjoy popcorn at the movies? No problem. You remove your aligners, enjoy, and then put them back on after brushing your teeth.

Hygiene is simplified. With traditional braces, brushing your teeth becomes a complicated exercise that can take 10 minutes. With aligners, you simply remove them, brush your teeth normally, and rinse them before putting them back in.

Finally, fewer appointments with the orthodontist. With a fixed appliance, you should return every four to six weeks for adjustments. With aligners, follow-up visits are usually eight to ten weeks apart, because you change your aligners yourself at home according to the schedule.

How do you know if a gutter is right for you?

Here’s a simple truth: the best way to find out is to consult a professional. Every mouth is unique, and what works for your colleague may not be ideal for you.

A good orthodontist will look at your situation in detail. They will look at the condition of your teeth, your bite (how your jaws close), the health of your gums, and even the shape of your face. All of this comes into play when determining if the gutters are appropriate.

In some very complex cases, such as severe malocclusion or significant skeletal problems, traditional fixed appliances remain the best option. But honestly, with the technological advancements of the last few years, the vast majority of alignment problems can now be treated with aligners.

During your initial consultation, don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have. How long will my treatment last? How many aligners will I need to wear? What will be the exact cost in my case? Can my condition be improved with this method? A competent professional will take the time to explain all this to you clearly.

The different types of gutters available

There are two main categories of dental aligners, and it is crucial not to confuse them because they do not have the same role (or the same price) at all.

First, invisible orthodontic aligners, such as Invisalign or ClearCorrect. These are the ones that do the heavy lifting by moving your teeth. They are worn between 20 and 22 hours a day for several months, or even more than a year depending on the complexity of your case. These invisible aligners are a real complete orthodontic treatment.

Then there are the retention gutters. These are done after the main treatment to keep your teeth in their new position. Think of it as a consolidation phase. After coming all this way to get a perfect smile, it would be a shame if your teeth decided to go back to their old position, right? The retention aligners are there to prevent precisely that.

These two types have different prices, which naturally brings us to the question that everyone is asking.

What is the real price of a dental aligner?

Let’s talk frankly about money, because it’s often the sinews of war. The cost of dental aligner treatment varies depending on several factors: the complexity of your situation, the duration of the treatment, your geographic region and the professional you choose.

In general, for a complete Invisalign treatment in Canada, we are talking about an investment between $3,000 and $8,000. Yes, that’s a pretty wide range. What for? Because someone who needs to correct a slight overlap won’t pay the same price as someone who needs a major bite correction.

You should also know that some of our clinics offer payment plans. This is a detail that can really make a difference if you are hesitant because of the initial cost. Rather than paying all at once, you can spread the payments over the duration of the treatment.

smile with confidence at Archambault Morton orthodontist for adults

The question of insurance

The good news is that dental insurance sometimes covers part of the orthodontic treatment, including invisible aligners. However (and this is where it gets a little complicated), it all depends on your specific coverage.

Most dental insurance policies include an “orthodontics” section that can cover between 50% and 80% of the costs, up to a lifetime maximum. This maximum usually ranges from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on your plan. Some employers even offer more generous coverage.

Here’s a real-world example to clarify: if your treatment costs $5,000 and your insurance covers 50% up to a maximum of $2,000, you’ll receive a $2,000 reimbursement (not $2,500, as your policy’s maximum applies).

My advice? Call your insurance company before starting treatment. Ask specific questions: What is my coverage for orthodontics? Is there an age limit? Are invisible aligners covered in the same way as traditional braces? These answers will help you avoid unpleasant surprises.

Some quick answers to common questions

Do gutters hurt? Not really “bad”, but you will feel pressure, especially when you change to a new aligner. It’s normal: it means that they work. This feeling usually subsides after one or two days.

Can we eat with it? Technically yes, but it’s really not recommended. You risk staining or damaging your gutters. In addition, food residues could get stuck, creating a breeding ground for cavities. It is better to remove them to eat.

Can they be lost? Yes, and it happens more often than you think. People wrap them in a napkin at a restaurant, then forget about it and throw it all in the trash. Or they fall into a bag without us noticing. The solution? Always store them in their case when not wearing them.

How long a day should you wear them? Ideally, between 20 and 22 hours a day. Yes, it may seem like a lot, but it’s the secret to an effective and timely treatment. If you wear them only 14 hours a day, your treatment will take much longer and the results will be less predictable.

Closure on dental aligners

The price of a dental aligner depends on several factors, but the important thing is to choose a solution that suits your smile and your budget. Yes, it’s an investment. But when you think about it, it’s an investment in your self-confidence, your oral health, and ultimately, your quality of life.

Think about it: how many times a day do you smile? How many photos of you will be taken in the next few years? Your smile is a bit like your daily business card. If you’ve always been self-conscious about your teeth, the impact of a beautiful smile can be truly transformative.

So, if you’re still wondering, maybe it’s time to take the plunge and consult a specialist. Most clinics offer a free initial assessment. You have nothing to lose, except a few minutes of your time, and potentially everything to gain in terms of confidence and well-being.

After all, your smile deserves the best, right?

What sets us apart at Archambault Morton

We take the time to properly assess your situation.
We rely on a human relationship and trust.
We adapt each treatment to your daily reality.
We collaborate with a network of professionals for a complete follow-up.

In short, you are not just another case. You are a person, with a story, a rhythm, a goal.

How about we talk about it?

Every smile has its story. Maybe you’ve learned to live with these little discomforts a long time ago. Maybe you didn’t even know they were related to orthodontics.

But what if… Was there a simple, accessible, and personalized solution?

At Archambault Morton, we’re here to talk about it. Without pressure. Just you, we… and a future with more comfort, confidence, and true smiles.