Cost Of Clear Aligners Definitive Guide 2021

Learn more about dental care by reading our dental blog posts below.

Book An Appointment Or Call : 08 9532 0247

Suppose you are looking for a way to straighten your teeth without wearing metal bracesor going through surgery. In that case, clear aligners might be the perfect solution. It slides over your teeth and gently pushes them into place. They use the same concept as traditional braces, but they’re made to be more comfortable for patients. You will never have to wear metal brackets again! Just think, your teeth will stay straight without having to deal with any discomfort or pain. 

However, the downside of this treatment is that it’s expensive. So in this blog post, we will explore what clear aligners are and how much they cost. 

What Are Clear Aligners?

are clear aligners worth it 1024x577

Clear aligners are a new type of orthodontic treatment that corrects misaligned or crooked teeth. They do not require any metal brackets so that you can wear them without anyone noticing. 

They are custom-built for every patient depending on their severity of tooth alignment (malocclusion). It could treat crowded teeth, gapped teeth, and some cases of overbites and underbites. 

Since they are removable, you can still enjoy your favorite foods, and there’s no fear that they will get stuck in the brackets as metal ones do. 

Learn More About Clear Aligners Here: Everything You Need To Know About Clear Aligners in Australia

How Effective Are Clear Aligners?

what to expect when getting clear aligners 1024x512

Clear aligners are a recent and innovative treatment for orthodonticissues. However, there is limited research on their effectiveness as of late 2015. Most experts stated that they do not have enough cases to create significant conclusions.

The two treatments, clear aligners, and braces, were both effective in treating malocclusion. Clear aligners had an advantage because they move teeth segmentally with shorter treatment duration, appealing to patients looking for a dental fix. These benefits seem more worthwhile than the drawbacks, such as durability or relapse into spaces where there were once teeth.

Learn more here: Are Clear Aligners As Effective As Traditional Braces?

How Much Are Clear Aligners?

The average price for clear aligner treatment in Australia varies by state. Treatment may range anywhere from $6500 to as high as $9500 for an entire 18-24 month period, depending on the length and complexity of your case.

Some complicated procedures will exceed the average price range and vary significantly based on how many trays are needed and what each case entails.

Does Private Health Insurance Cover Clear Aligners?

does private health insurance cover clear aligners 1024x683

Yes, it is covered by private health insurance. Orthodontic treatment is a common addition to most health insurance plans. It can include braces, aligners, and retainers. In addition, some insurers will contribute towards orthodontics as part of what’s called ‘Extras’ cover, which usually covers services that Medicare doesn’t offer coverage for.

If your private health insurance covers orthodontics, then this is not a problem. However, all of it has a 12-month waiting period before the treatment can start. It applies in cases where the patient is new or when you upgrade your cover. However, suppose you are transferring to another fund. In that case, the waiting period will usually go with you, so it won’t delay the treatment.  

Each health care provider has their variation of an extras policy with varying levels of coverage within each package. To get these extra coverages at lower rates, compare them against different providers. Some may offer better features than others, but selecting one will limit whichever option they do not provide if desired later down the line.

Does Medicare Cover Clear Aligner Treatment?

does medicare cover clear aligner treatment 1024x683

Medicare does not cover orthodontic treatment such as braces and clear aligners. Still, you might be able to get them from your private health insurance if the details of your policy cover it.

Are ClearCorrect clear aligners cheaper than Invisalign?

ClearCorrect is a cheaper alternative to Invisalign, but depending on the severity of your malocclusion and what treatment you choose, it may be more expensive than expected.

ClearCorrect is typically cheaper than Invisalign, but it can vary depending on your condition and the dentist you choose to treat it. ClearCorrect can be $2,500-$5,000 or more if you have a severe case. It is cheaper because dentists pay less for products and laboratory fees, so these savings are passed onto the patients. On the other hand, a patient will spend $3,000 – $8,000 if they go with an Invisalign treatment.

Ways to afford clear aligner treatment 

  • In-house payment plans

Monthly payment plans are a great way to pay for your orthodontic work without going into debt. When you ask about the cost of getting clear aligners, please inquire how much the monthly payments would be with their office’s current payment plan options to ensure they don’t cost more than expected.

  • Zippay, Afterpay, and other repayment providers

Dental treatment should be accessible to everyone. That’s why there are payment plans to help make an expensive treatment more manageable for your budget.

You can use Afterpay to pay for any dental visit up to a maximum of $1,400. You’ll only need four fortnightly payments, and it’s interest-free! All you have to do is set up an account online or through the app before your appointment so that you’re ready and able when the time comes.

Another option would be using Zip Pay (more minor treatments) or Zip Money (more extensive procedures). Zip has flexible payment options of either weekly, fortnightly or monthly payments. However, minimum monthly repayments are required. Although, paying only the minimum amount would not pay out your purchase within the interest-free period. Moreover, a 19.90% interest will be charged on the outstanding balance after the period expires. In addition, you’ll be charged with an additional $6 monthly account fee. 

  • No interest credit card

Credit cards can be a way to finance dental work. If you have the right card, it could come with an introductory rate of 0 percent APR. Suppose you make regular payments before the end of that period. In that case, you create an affordable payment plan without paying more interest charges.

  • Superannuation  

In Australia, there is a mandatory retirement fund called superannuation. A small percentage of your income is placed into this fund. It is invested in different assets and grows your balance account to provide financial support during your retirement years when you are no longer working.

Many people don’t know this, but you can access your superannuation to fund all of your dental needs. Requesting an early release of superannuation for dental treatment can provide substantial financial support, especially if you have limited private health cover. 

Moreover, there are no limitations on the amount you can withdraw, whether large or small an amount it may be.

However, remember that the early release of funds is the last resort for people in dire need. Therefore, if you meet the criteria, speak to your financial counsellor first before applying because it should only be used as an option after other considerations and options have been exhausted.

Learn More: Advantages and Disadvantages of Clear Aligners

Final Thoughts

The cost of clear aligners varies from person to person, and many factors can influence the price. For example, some people may be eligible for financing or insurance coverage through their dental plan, while others will need to pay the amount upfront. At Byford Smiles, we offer various payment plans so that our patients can get started on their journey to straighten their teeth without breaking the bank. Contact us today to learn more about how clear aligners work or if they are an appropriate treatment choice for your specific dental needs.

Recent Blogs & News

Our experienced team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable
dental experience every time you visit our practice.

Need Urgent Dental Care?

Give Us A Call Now Or Book Online.