Why choosing the right Clear Aligner package matters more than you think
- Jesper Hatt DDS
- 4. apr.
- 5 min læsning
When dentists start offering clear aligner treatments, one of the first challenges they face is selecting the right treatment package from their aligner provider. Most aligner companies offer multiple package options, and the more choices available, the bigger the confusion. This is interesting because, in many industries, confused customers simply don’t buy. Yet, dentists must make a decision—and making the wrong one can be costly.
The different Aligner package options
Most clear aligner providers structure their offerings around:
A set number of aligners
A fixed treatment period (e.g., 6, 12, or 24 months)
A flexible pay-per-aligner system
An "all-inclusive" package covering all necessary aligners, revisions, and sometimes even retainers for up to 5 years
Aligner companies offer different options because dentists often want to differentiate between various types of cases. However, to do this predictably, a dentist typically needs to have treated more than 500 patients on average. With this amount of experience, the doctor will be able to make relatively realistic case selections on the spot and handle tracking issues with clinical workarounds based on experience. However, for those with less experience, the flexibility of different packages can lead to costly miscalculations.
Consulting with a dentist or orthodontist who specialises in clear aligner treatment planning can be a great help in selecting the right package. Their expertise can provide valuable insights into potential treatment complexities and help avoid unnecessary costs.
The different packages give dentists the sensation of variability, allowing them to offer competitive prices while tailoring treatment to specific patient needs. However, this flexibility is only beneficial if the dentist fully understands the implications of each package option and can anticipate the potential challenges that may arise throughout treatment.
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At first glance, many dentists, especially those new to aligners, focus primarily on price. The instinct is to minimize costs, either to offer competitive fees or simply to save money. However, a deeper look at pricing shows that the real financial impact comes not from the initial cost, but from the consequences of choosing the wrong package.
The hidden costs of choosing the wrong package
Let’s consider an example: A dentist selects a 12-month package that includes one revision and no retainers. If the patient follows instructions perfectly and the biology responds ideally, the case might be completed without issues. But reality is rarely that simple.
Many patients are not fully compliant, and their lack of adherence can affect treatment.
Biological response to tooth movement is unpredictable, even with an ideal treatment plan.
As a consequence, any aligner case may require more than one revision to achieve optimal results.
If the dentist has only one revision included, any additional refinements will require a new package, dramatically increasing costs. Often, the combined expenses of these unexpected adjustments surpass what an "all-inclusive" package would have cost from the start. Additionally, this creates unnecessary stress for both the dentist and the patient, leading to longer treatment times and potential dissatisfaction.
Another scenario: A dentist with less than 100 cases of experience selects a 2-year package with two revisions. If a relapse occurs three years later and the patient complains, the dentist is left in a difficult position. With an "all-inclusive" package covering five years, however, the patient remains happy, and the only additional cost to the practice is chair time—not expensive new lab fees. The ability to confidently manage patient concerns without unexpected financial burdens helps maintain a strong reputation and fosters long-term patient loyalty.
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Why the price difference is negligible
Many dentists operate in markets where they can set their own fees. Even in countries where fees are regulated, lab costs are often separate from treatment fees, making it clear to patients what they are paying for. And when you compare costs, the difference between a limited package and an "all-inclusive" one is often less than €300/$300.
For treatments priced at $5,000 or more, this difference is trivial. To put it into perspective, $300 is often less than the cost of a single chairside appointment required to manage unexpected issues. Additionally, choosing a limited package often results in unanticipated costs that exceed the initial savings. Dentists must also consider the cost of their time—handling additional revisions, patient concerns, and unforeseen complications consumes valuable resources that could have been better utilized elsewhere.
The vast majority of patients prioritize aesthetics, function, and longevity over cost. More importantly, the ultimate factor in their decision isn’t price—it’s trust. The more a patient trusts their dentist, the easier it becomes to present ideal treatment options, even at higher fees. Patients who feel confident that their dentist has selected the best possible treatment plan are more likely to commit to comprehensive treatment, ensuring better clinical outcomes and a smoother overall experience.
The smart choice for every dentist
My advice is simple: Always choose the "all-inclusive" package. Set a fair fee accordingly, and focus on refining your patient communication skills.
If you’re unsure where to start, our comprehensive online course on patient communication can help. It includes all the tools you need to build trust, explain treatment options effectively, and create a smooth experience for both you and your patients. You can select the materials that best suit your communication style and needs. The course also covers strategies to position your fees effectively, helping patients see the true value of their investment in clear aligner treatment.
By making the right package choice from the start, you’ll reduce stress, improve patient satisfaction, and ensure that your aligner treatments are as predictable and profitable as possible. Investing in the right package upfront not only protects your financial interests but also allows you to deliver a higher standard of care, ultimately leading to a more successful and rewarding practice.
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Kind regards
Jesper Hatt DDS
P: +41 78 268 00 78
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We are dentists helping dentists create realistic, safe and predictable treatment plans with clear aligners.
Currently more than1500 dental practices in 19 different countries use our service on a regular basis. We offer expert guidance in the following clear aligner systems: Invisalign, SureSmile, ClearCorrect, TrioClear, Angel Aligners and Spark.
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