How to Choose a Clear Aligner Provider

Dentist vs orthodontist

• General dentist: many are certified Invisalign® providers and handle mild-to-moderate cases well.
• Orthodontist: a specialist in tooth and jaw movement, best for complex bites, big gaps, or relapse cases.

Questions to ask

• Are you a certified Invisalign® provider, and how many cases like mine have you treated?
• Do you take a 3D scan and show a digital preview of my result?
• Does the quote include refinements if teeth need extra movement?
• Is at least one retainer included?
• What happens if my teeth do not track to plan?
• Do you offer financing?

At-home vs in-clinic

Mail-order aligners are cheaper but unsupervised. A local provider scans your teeth, monitors progress, and can correct course, which matters for anything beyond minor crowding. See our at-home vs in-clinic comparison →

Red flags

• No 3D scan or in-person exam before quoting
• Prices far below everyone else (often excluding refinements or retainers)
• No plan for what happens if treatment stalls
• High-pressure, "today only" pricing