If you’ve ever dreamed about getting a perfect smile, but the thought of painful, unsightly braces gives you nightmares, you’re not alone. Luckily, that’s where clear aligners come in. In general, clear aligners are faster, more comfortable, more affordable, and nearly invisible compared to braces.
It’s no surprise that clear aligners have become the best alternative to braces. And as a result, there are plenty of clear aligner brands available across the country. Connecticut is no exception. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the options, don’t stress. We’ve done the work for you.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the top clear aligner options in Connecticut. But before we jump in, please note that orthodontic care is a very individualized area. There are lots of different facets to treatment: cost, in-office vs. at-home treatment, treatment speed, company size and track record, treatable cases, and more.
Everyone has different priorities, but we’ve done our best to weigh each of those categories to help you pick the best clear aligners in Connecticut.
Understanding Your Options: At-Home vs. In-Person Clear Aligners
When choosing a clear aligner, the first decision you should make is whether to use an at-home service method or an in-person treatment. Both methods use clear aligners, but in-person treatments are administered at a local dentist or orthodontist’s office; at-home treatments are delivered right to your door instead.
At a glance, here are the primary differences between the two types:
At-home treatments | In-person treatments |
|---|---|
| Cost: flat rate; sticker prices range between $1,145 and $2,400 | Cost: variable depending on provider, condition severity, and location, but typically falls between $3,000-$10,000 |
| Orthodontist oversight: minimal; treatment design phase only (exception: Candid) | Orthodontist oversight: constant, from initial consultation to aftercare retainers |
| Office visits: not required | Office visits: required every 6-8 weeks |
| Treatment speed: 6 months on average | Treatment speed: 12-18 months on average |
| Treatable cases: minor cosmetic misalignments only | Treatable cases: Mild to fairly severe cases of misalignment and bite issues |
Why the huge cost variability for in-person treatments? A lot of factors influence the price tag you’ll pay for a product like Invisalign. Nationwide, Invisalign costs roughly $5,000.
In general, the northeast has some of the highest prices for dental and orthodontic care, Invisalign treatment included. Connecticut is no exception. In fact, compared to other states, Invisalign has a smaller number of providers, which means there’s minimal competition to make doctors lower their prices. So most Connecticut residents can expect to pay between $5,000 and $7,000. That’s higher than the national average.
If that sounds like a lot to shell out, consider using an at-home method like byte. Byte costs just $1,895, so you could potentially save thousands compared to Invisalign.
7 Best Clear Aligners in Connecticut
Now that we’ve established the distinction between at-home and in-person treatments, let’s dig into your top options in Connecticut. Thanks to our research, we’ve narrowed it down to the 7 quickest, safest, and most affordable options:
Byte | #1 Aligner
Founded in 2018, Byte prides itself on being the fastest at-home aligner on the market. But “fast” doesn’t mean “sloppy.” Byte also uses SmileScience to create a treatment plan that will transform your smile into a grin that complements your unique facial features.
Here’s a snapshot of Byte:
- Treatment type: At-home
- Cost: $1,895 for daytime treatment; $2,295 for byte At-Night (their premium nighttime aligners)
- Speed: 3 months (5-6 months for nighttime treatment)
- Start-up process: Impression kits only, but offers video appointments to assist with the process
- Financing: Automatic approval makes a payment plan accessible to all
Byte is our #1 pick because they combine it all: excellent customer service, a great bang for your buck, speedy treatment, a fantastic Byte-for-Life guarantee, and flexible treatment options.
Byte’s Los Angeles headquarters might be far from Connecticut, but you don’t get price-gouged for the distance! Your price is the same as an LA resident’s (but you’ll definitely pay less sales tax), and shipping is free.
AlignerCo | #2 Aligner
Founded in May of 2019, AlignerCo is the “new kid on the block” on the clear aligner scene. But they’ve quickly made their mark on the industry as the most affordable option on the market.
Here’s a quick glance at AlignerCo:
- Treatment type: At-home
- Cost: $1,145 ($1345 for nighttime treatment)
- Treatment speed: 6 to 11 months
- Start-up process: Impression kits only, but offers video support
- Financing: Two financing plans (SmileFlex and SmileFlex Easy) make financing accessible to all, regardless of credit score
It’s hard to argue with the sheer value of AlignerCo, so if you’re looking for a cost-effective method, look no further. They’ve also recently introduced nighttime treatments, so they offer flexible treatment options. Plus, AlignerCo is headquartered in New York, so Connecticut residents can expect very quick shipping times, especially compared to other parts of the country.
Candid | #3 Aligner
Candid, our third pick, was founded in 2017. With Candid, you have the option to start your treatment with either an impression kit or a visit to a Candid Studio (the appointment is entirely free, and much easier than an impression kit).
Here’s a snapshot of Candid:
- Treatment type: At-home
- Cost: $2,400
- Treatment speed: Approximately 6 months
- Start-up process: Impression kits or a visit to a Candid Studio
- Financing: offered through Affirm, so a credit check is required
One of our favorite aspects of Candid is their Remote Monitoring program. Unlike most at-home aligners, Candid’s orthodontists will have regular, virtual “check-ins” with you to see how your treatment is going. It’s a great option if you want the peace of mind from oversight without the hassle of office visits.
Unfortunately, there aren’t any Candid Studio locations in Connecticut yet, but there might be in the future! Candid is constantly expanding the reach of their retail locations. Thankfully, an impression kit is still an option for Connecticut residents. And there’s no risk to buying a kit; if you’re not a good candidate for treatment, you’ll get a full refund.
Smile Direct Club | #4 Aligner
Founded in 2014, SmileDirectClub is the oldest at-home clear aligner company. There’s a good chance you’ve heard of them already, since they’ve served more than a million customers to date.
Here’s a quick glance at SmileDirectClub:
- Treatment type: At-home
- Cost: $1,895
- Treatment speed: approximately 6 months for daytime treatment; 8 to 10 for nighttime aligners
- Start-up process: Impression kit or scan at a SmileShop location
- Financing: SmilePay adds a downpayment instead of a credit check, for a total cost of $2,290
SmileDirect has established SmileShops in Connecticut. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing COVID crisis, they’ve temporarily closed most or all of their locations in the state. For a list of the locations that are currently open in Connecticut (and please note that this is an ever-changing list), look here.
Invisalign | #5 Aligner
Invisalign is, without a doubt, the king of clear aligner treatment; they pioneered the treatment method in the 90s. But unlike the at-home aligners we’ve listed above, Invisalign is only offered in-office by participating dentists and orthodontists. As a result, Invisalign can add in Smartforce attachments and elastics to create a powerful treatment. Invisalign can treat even the most troublesome cases.
Here’s a quick overview of the clear aligner giant:
- Treatment type: In-person
- Cost: $3,000-$8,000 nationwide
- Treatment speed: 12 to 18 months
- Start-up process: Initial consultation with local provider
- Financing: Determined by treatment provider, but almost always available
Connecticut might not have as many Invisalign providers as other states, but there are still dozens upon dozens of local Invisalign doctors, all with varying levels of experience. They have their respective price points, too. But regardless of whether you live in the largest city, Bridgeport, or more suburban regions like Stamford, your Invisalign price tag will probably fall between $5,000 and $7,000. The cost is pretty consistent across the state.
Top-Rated Invisalign Providers in Connecticut
With Invisalign, there are so many providers in Connecticut that it can be hard to pick the right one for you. Practically speaking, you can pick almost anyone, but if you want to work with a proven provider, here are some practices to look into:
- Rosenberg Orthodontics: No matter what Invisalign treatment type you’re looking for, you’ll find it at Rosenberg Orthodontics, which offers Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, and Surgical Invisalign. You can find their doctors at one of four locations across the state: Canton, West Hartford, Wethersfield, and Newington.
- Orthodontic Boutique of Connecticut: With a location in Darien and another in Trumbull, Dr. Lubna Khan offers Invisalign treatment for all ages. And she does so expertly: her practice has won more than 350 5-star reviews.
- Braun Orthodontics: If you’re living in Fairfield and you’re looking for an Invisalign provider that’s a little closer to home, check out Braun Orthodontics. Dr. Braun has been practicing for over 30 years, and he’s ready to bring his expertise to meet your needs.
- Conroy Orthodontics: With locations in Wethersfield, Middletown, and South Windsor, Conroy Orthodontics proudly offers Invisalign treatments. Dr. Conroy and Dr. Harris offer free consultations for new patients, so give them a call if you’re ready to get started.
- Dental Associates of Connecticut: It’s almost pointless to list the locations for Dental Associates of Connecticut; there’s just that many of them! Suffice it to say, there’s a good chance you live near one. Their network is pretty extensive, as is their expertise: they rank among the top 1% of Invisalign providers nationwide.
ClearCorrect | #6 Aligner
ClearCorrect got its start in 2006 when their founder, Dr. William Pumphrey, had patients who needed clear aligners; he decided to manufacture his own. As a result, ClearCorrect became one of the top competitors to Invisalign in the in-office treatment category. In practice, they accomplish the same thing as Invisalign, but their brand network is smaller.
Here’s a quick glance at ClearCorrect’s features:
- Treatment type: In-person
- Cost: $4,000-$6,000
- Treatment speed: 12 to 18 months
- Start-up process: Initial consultation with local provider
- Financing: Determined by treatment provider, but almost always available
ClearCorrect providers are located in all 50 states, including Connecticut. You can find a provider on their website, but please note that they don’t have nearly as much reach as Invisalign. That said, there are plenty of locations, including Stamfield, Wethersfield, Mansfield, and more.
Top-Rated ClearCorrect Providers in Connecticut
If you’re leaning towards ClearCorrect, it can still be overwhelming to find the best provider in your area. Of course, this isn’t a comprehensive list, but here are some of the top Connecticut ClearCorrect providers we found:
- Stamford Dental Spa: With over 450 positive reviews on Google alone, Stamford Dental Spa offers ClearCorrect treatments that will exceed your expectations. Dr. Patel leads the practice, and her team is excited to serve you.
- Danbury Dental Services: Dr. Patel and, well, Dr. Patel (yes, there’s two of them) offer ClearCorrect and other general dental needs to Danbury and the surrounding area. Their Google reviews are overwhelmingly positive, too.
- Smiles by Karen: Dr. Karen Calef offers all types of braces, from lingual braces to ceramic braces and every type in between. ClearCorrect is no exception. You can find Dr. Calef’s office in Mansfield.
Six Month Smiles | #7 Aligner
Six Month Smiles first appeared on the scene in the mid-2000s, and true to their name, their treatment lasts 6 months on average. Their treatment is specifically designed for dentists, not orthodontists, allowing for more versatility at their offices. For patients, however, Six Month Smiles presents a unique advantage: you can get clear aligners, clear braces, or a combination of both.
Let’s take a quick glance at Six Month Smiles:
- Treatment type: In-person
- Cost: $3,500-$5,000
- Treatment speed: 6 months
- Start-up process: Initial consultation with local provider
- Financing: Determined by treatment provider, but almost always available
There are Six Month Smiles providers located across the country, mainly in major cities. For example, in Connecticut, you can find providers—including gold and silver providers with lots of experience—in West Hartford, Avon, and more. You can find your closest provider with a ZIP Code search.
Top-Rated Six Month Smiles Providers in Connecticut
Not all Six Month Smiles providers are created equal, so if you’re leaning towards this treatment method, you’ll want to pick the best provider you can. We’ve rounded up some of the top-rated SMS providers. This isn’t a comprehensive list, of course, but it might be a good place to start.
- Blue Back Dental: Blue Back Dental is a comprehensive dental practice that has won more than 500 positive reviews. They’re recognized as a Six Month Smiles Elite provider, too. They have one location in West Hartford, and their newest location opened in Avon in September 2020.
- Lighthouse Dental Care: Lighthouse Dental has more than one location across the U.S., but their Connecticut office has won an impressive number of positive reviews under the leadership of Dr. Samuels, Dr. Sonick, and Dr. Zaffetti. They offer both Six Month Smiles and Invisalign treatments.
What Are the Most Affordable Clear Aligners in Connecticut?
Honestly, this is a tricky question to answer. Technically speaking, AlignerCo is the cheapest. No other brand can compete with the flat $1,145 price tag. And in our opinion, a flat price is one of the big advantages of at-home clear aligners.
But as you’ve probably noticed, we can’t give you a straightforward answer for in-office clear aligners. There are a lot of reasons for that. Most importantly, your treatment cost for methods like Invisalign and ClearCorrect will largely depend on the severity of your case. Naturally, minor cases cost less. Some treatment providers also charge more or less based on their personal experience with the treatment method. For example, an orthodontist who’s well-versed in Invisalign treatment might charge a bit more for their expertise.
But more specifically, your location dictates some of your cost, too. Connecticut has a moderately high cost of living; technically, all of the northeast has a higher cost for orthodontic care. And unlike some states, there’s not a big difference between the costs for rural or urban areas in Connecticut. Much of Connecticut would be classified as “suburban,” even the biggest cities.
There are a few state taxes that drive up orthodontic costs, too. For instance, many orthodontists raise their prices to help accommodate for the state’s moderate corporate income tax (7.5%). You’ll also need to pay a 6.35% sales tax. Because of these tax factors and others, in-person treatment in Connecticut costs a bit more than in other states.
Unsure How to Compare Your Options?
Ultimately, only you can pick the right option for your unique grin. So, to narrow down your choices, ask yourself: what do you want from your treatment? Speed? Affordability? Convenience? One-on-one time with your treatment provider? Overall value?
If you’re looking for your best bang for your buck, check out Byte. If you need the convenience of at-home aligners but want orthodontist oversight, check out Candid. Affordability is AlignerCo’s claim to fame. But if you’re leaning towards in-office treatment and you’re willing to spend more, look into Invisalign.
It’s up to you to do your research to find which is best for you. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, or you’re leaning towards two specific options, check out our at home aligner reviews and service comparisons.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for teeth straightening in Connecticut, you’re in luck; there are plenty of great options. But as we’ve seen, those options can be a bit overwhelming! You need to pick whether you want in-home or in-person treatments, decide how much you’re willing to pay, how long you’re willing to wait to see your perfect smile, and more.
If you’re not sure which treatment fits your priorities, feel free to click one of the links throughout this guide to continue your research.
No matter what your treatment priorities are, you’re sure to find the right treatment to fit your needs. We hope this guide has helped you do just that, and best of luck with your new smile!