Smile makeover

Want a beautiful, straight smile? Here’s what you need to know about Invisalign cost

Dr Jaskaran Kaur
May 29, 2024
Dentistry at The Cross Potts Point Smile Makeover

Knowing you need braces is a buzzkill, right? But, thanks to teeth straightening innovations like Invisalign, getting braces in adulthood needn’t mean an abrupt end to your social life. (Not to mention your self-esteem!)

Virtually invisible, removable, waay more comfortable and less ugly than traditional braces—Invisalign is a popular choice. But what about Invisalign cost? While the price of clear aligners can vary depending on your individual needs, in Australia you can expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $9,000.

Here’s a look at the factors that can influence cost. Plus, let’s not ignore the cheaper alternatives to Invisalign. Find out what the differences are so you know *exactly* what you’re paying for. 

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Table of Contents

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign clear aligners (AKA invisible braces) are a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually straighten your teeth. No metal wires. No brackets. No need to hide your smile during treatment.

In fact, the ‘barely-there’ nature of Invisalign clear aligners means that no one will even know that you’re straightening your teeth.

Image of an Invisalign clear aligner.
Virtually invisible, removable, more comfortable than traditional braces—Invisalign aligners are a popular choice to gradually straighten your teeth.

Not only is Invisalign discreet, it’s comfortable and removable. Scored a hot date? Got a job interview? Taking the stage for an important business presentation? No problem. Simply remove your aligners and you can be yourself—with confidence. Once you’re done, pop them back in.

How much does Invisalign cost?

Certain that Invisalign is the best option for you? Then you’re probably wondering ’how much does Invisalign cost’. Yep, it’s the million dollar question on everyone’s lips. But the truth is… (“drumroll”) 

It depends!

While you might pay between $4,000 and $7,000 for regular braces, Invisalign may cost $5,000 to $9,000. Surprised? Most people assume that metal braces are a more cost-effective option. In some cases, Invisalign can end up being the less expensive option. Keep on reading to drill down on what exactly affects the cost of Invisalign.

Factors that affect the cost of Invisalign 

Invisalign treatment costs depend on individual needs. However, the main factors to consider include:

How much your teeth need to move

In severe and complex cases, it may take longer for the teeth to move into the correct position. Things like bite correction and major alignments may need more planning. This can mean a higher cost.

Illustration of an open bite.
Bite correction and major alignments may need more planning and it can take longer for the teeth to move into the correct position.

The length of treatment

Invisalign treatment can take as little as three months. Yet, complex cases can take as long as 18 months. During orthodontic treatment, you’ll visit your dentist regularly to track your progress. These appointments are factored into your overall Invisalign cost. So, longer treatment plans mean more appointments — and a higher cost.

How many sets of Invisalign aligners you need

Invisalign treatment involves a series of aligner trays. You’ll receive a new set of aligners every two weeks or so, until your pearly whites look perfect. The more complex your case, the more aligner trays you’ll need. This can increase your overall Invisalign cost.

How much your health insurance will cover

Got private health insurance? Go you. You may be able to claim part of your Invisalign treatment costs. Your eligibility and the amount you can claim will depend on your individual policy and level of cover. A couple of things to consider…

  • Does your policy include orthodontic treatment?
  • Most health funds have a ‘lifetime limit’ on orthodontic treatment. This means there’s a maximum amount you can claim. If you’ve already reached your limit, you won’t be able to claim. Yep, even if you change insurers!
  • Only just got health insurance? Check out the waiting periods. In most cases, you have to wait 12 months before you can claim on orthodontics, which includes Invisalign.

Invisalign vs braces cost

Think Invisalign costs more than traditional braces? Not always. Truth is, Invisalign is comparable to other orthodontic treatments. This handy table gives you a quick snapshot of Invisalign vs braces cost.

Orthodontic treatment Average cost
Invisalign $5,000 - $9,000
Traditional metal braces $4,000 - $7,000
Ceramic braces $6,000 - $9,000
Lingual braces From $8,000

Want straighter teeth without any financial stress? We offer a range of payment plans to make achieving your dream smile easy and affordable. Pay for your Invisalign treatment in monthly or fortnightly instalments (interest-free options available). Plus, our commitment to ‘upfront fees’ means you’ll never get hit with unknown costs. Find out more about our payment plans.

Photos of a young lady wearing Invisalign aligners and metal braces side by side.
Invisalign cost is comparable to other orthodontic treatments such as metal or ceramic braces.

Cheaper alternatives to Invisalign 

Cheaper alternatives to Invisalign include at-home solutions, with costs ranging from approximately $1,300 to $2,500. This is where you receive an impression kit to make moulds of your teeth at home. The moulds are then used to create your clear aligners, which are sent to you by mail. There are no face-to-face dentist visits to have your aligners fitted or monitored.

Think this sounds like a good thing?

What if your teeth straightening treatment doesn’t go to plan? You might end up having to fork out more than if you had Invisalign in the first place. Other factors to be aware of include:

  • There is no consultation or x-rays —These are an important part of your treatment. They help your dentist to spot any underlying issues that may affect the success of your treatment. 
  • It might not work for everyone — In complex cases, Invisalign may not be the right teeth straightening option. Clear aligners may not deliver the dream smile you’ve been looking for. This is where your dentist’s advice and experience are priceless. Your dentist will work with you to design a personalised plan. They will monitor your progress and may adjust your treatment to make certain you get great results.

Is Invisalign worth the cost?

While traditional teeth straightening methods, such as metal braces, work well—Invisalign is a popular and effective choice. If the idea of metal braces is keeping you from achieving your dream smile and getting your smile confidence back, then Invisalign treatment is definitely worth the money. 

Want to know *exactly* how much your Invisalign treatment will cost? Come in for an Invisalign consultation. During your appointment, we’ll:

  • ‍Examine your mouth, take scans, and assess your suitability
  • Show you what your new smile could look like before treatment starts
  • Give you a detailed treatment plan including the cost and treatment time frame

Ready to get a stunningly straighter smile with Invisalign? Simply book your consultation in just a few clicks.

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Dr Jaskaran Kaur of Dentistry at The Cross Potts Point
Dr Jaskaran Kaur
Dr Jaskaran Kaur proudly owns Dentistry At The Cross and opened the clinic to provide judgement-free, inclusive and all-encompassing dentistry. She enjoys performing complex dental treatments, and finds great fulfilment in helping her patients in whatever way possible.

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