Clear aligners: How much do they cost in Australia?

Clear aligner treatment is gaining popularity in Australia, but is the discreet orthodontic treatment option right for you?

Before completing orthodontic treatment, there are a number of things you must consider such as the type of treatment you would like to complete. Making these decisions can be tough if you have never been to an orthodontist before. Luckily, your orthodontist is experienced in straightening teeth and aligning jaws. It’s what they do all day, every day, so they have seen a variety of cases, from minor to severe. This means they will be able to answer all your questions and recommend a treatment option that is right for you and your specific lifestyle.

Cost is a major consideration for many Australians looking to undergo orthodontic treatment. Prices will vary due to the materials and tools required for various treatment options such as metal and lingual braces. So, we’ve spoken to many orthodontists to find out how much you should expect to pay for your treatment, starting with clear aligners.

What are clear aligners?

Clear aligners are made out of a clear, plastic material that’s moulded into the shape of your teeth. From an initial scan or impression, a series of aligners are made to incrementally straighten your teeth.

They are custom fit and virtually invisible which makes them a popular choice for those who are self-conscious about undergoing orthodontic treatment.

They are often known by their brand names, such as Invisalign®, Spark® and 3M Clarity. However, while the brand names may differ the process and technology remains the same so this should not be the deciding factor when choosing an orthodontic provider.

The average cost of clear aligners in Australia

Like traditional braces, clear aligners are one of the cheaper types of orthodontic treatment options. This is due to the type of material, as well as the less complex movements required to straighten teeth and align jaws using clear aligners – they are not recommended in more complex cases. Average prices in Australia can vary by state, however clear aligner treatment may cost anywhere from $6500 – $9500 for a full 18-24 month treatment period. Shorter, or more limited treatments involving only some of the teeth may cost significantly less than this and complicated or lengthy treatments may exceed this range, the number of trays and the complexity of the case.

Are clear aligners covered by health insurance?

Every private health policy is different. If you have an extras cover that includes orthodontics, your clear aligner treatment may be covered to the same level as traditional braces. As different insurance providers have different policies, it’s important to check this information with your chosen health insurance provider.

Are clear aligners the right choice?

Every patient and their presenting case is different, so it is important to always consult a specialist to help you make an informed decision.

No matter what treatment option you choose, it’s best to consult a registered orthodontist who will help you make the right decision about the health of your smile.

Use our Finder tool to find an orthodontist near you. And if you are looking for more information about the cost of clear aligner treatment, you can download our printable e-book, full of information about this subtle treatment option.

All price ranges quoted are indicative only, and do not take into consideration other mitigating factors such as the type of malocclusion being treated, the duration of ‘full treatment’ for a particular case or limited treatment solutions. Orthodontics Australia recommends you consult a specialist orthodontist before commencing any form of orthodontic treatment. You can request a detailed quote from your orthodontist to understand the full cost of treatment, including regular monitoring appointments to ensure your treatment is progressing safely and as expected.