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, often called invisible braces, have become the best alternative to metal braces. And as a result, there are plenty of clear aligner brands available across the country. Idaho 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 Idaho. 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 Idaho.
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 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 $2,300 | 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: mild cosmetic misalignments (with the exception of Candid, which offers more comprehensive treatment) | 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.
Invisalign prices in Idaho fall in line with the national averages. And there are a fair number of local providers, especially in bigger cities. That said, don’t think that the prices will be the most expensive in Boise, the biggest city in the entire state. Technically, Invisalign prices are higher in some of the smaller, more “suburban” locations. However, regardless of where you live in the state, you’ll probably pay somewhere between $4,000 and $6,000 for Invisalign treatment.
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 Idaho
Now that we’ve established the distinction between at-home and in-person treatments, let’s dig into your top options in Idaho. 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 isn’t too far from Idaho, but you still don’t get price-gouged for the distance! Your price is the same as an LA resident’s (although you’ll definitely pay less sales tax), and shipping is free.
Candid | #2 Aligner
Candid, our second pick, was founded in 2017, and they’re just as lovable as byte. 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: $1,895
- 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’s treatment is their ability to move all your teeth, including the molars. Other providers focus mostly on your front six upper teeth (also known as the “social six”). Candid’s ability to consider your smile as a whole makes them the most comprehensive at-home clear aligner provider on the market.
Unfortunately, there aren’t any Candid Studio locations in Idaho 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 Idaho 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.
Curious about Candid? Check out the full review.
AlignerCo | #3 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 (they’re less than half the price of Candid).
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. Please note that AlignerCo is headquartered in New York, you’ll have to wait a bit longer for shipping than someone on the East Coast.
Check out the full AlignerCo review for more information.
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 some SmileShops in Idaho. 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 Idaho (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
In Idaho, there are 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 busiest city, Boise, or a smaller, peaceful town, you’ll pay somewhere between $4,000 and $6,000. Typically, Invisalign costs the most in suburban areas, where prices are a little higher than the national average.
Top-Rated Invisalign Providers in Idaho
With Invisalign, there are so many providers in Idaho 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:
- Lowder Orthodontics: If you want to work with the most experienced Invisalign provider in the Idaho Falls area, look no further than Dr. Lowder and his team. They have five locations, too: Rexburg, Idaho Falls, Salmon, Rigby, and even a location in Afton, Wyoming.
- Slattery Orthodontics: Dr. Slattery has been recognized as a Platinum Invisalign provider, and he’s served the greater Boise area since 1999. Thanks to that expertise, they’ve established locations in Boise, Meridian, and McCall.
- Howell Orthodontics: Meridian, Idaho is home to Howell Orthodontics, and judging by their 300+ positive reviews on Google, they’re one of the most reputable ones in the area. Dr. Howell is a Platinum Invisalign provider, so he’s probably already seen a case just like yours.
- Avondale Dental: Typically, orthodontists are the biggest providers for Invisalign, but sometimes, general dentists provide the treatment just as well. Dr. Kory Wilson at Avondale Dental is no exception. You can find his office (and the rest of his treatment team) in Hayden Lake.
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 Idaho. 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 Idaho Falls, Rigby, Boise, and more.
Top-Rated ClearCorrect Providers in Idaho
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 Idaho ClearCorrect providers we found:
- Lowder Orthodontics: We’ve already mentioned Dr. Lowder and his team under the Invisalign section, but they also offer ClearCorrect treatments, so we’re listing them here, too. If you’re set on ClearCorrect or you want to discuss your options in person, schedule a complimentary consultation at one of their four Idaho locations.
- Tingley Orthodontics: Boise and Meridian residents can find an excellent orthodontist in Tingley Orthodontics. All of the reviews we found for them are 5-star ratings, and they offer both ClearCorrect and Invisalign treatment.
- Water’s Edge Dental: Dr. Herzog leads the team at Water’s Edge Dental, where you’ll find a full-service dental practice as well as ClearCorrect treatment. Their practice may not be as big as other offices in Boise, but you’ll still get top-notch, individualized treatment with a personalized feel.
- Choice Dental: Dr. Kelly is an Idaho native, so opening his practice in Idaho Falls felt like coming home. He offers a near-comprehensive list of treatment options, including ClearCorrect and Invisalign cosmetic dentistry offerings. They also maintain a general dental practice, so you can opt to make them your one-stop shop for all your dental needs.
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 Idaho, you can find providers—mainly ones with the Six Month Smiles Gold Provider designation—in Kuna, Post Falls, and a few other locations. You can find your closest provider with a ZIP Code search.
Top-Rated Six Month Smiles Providers in Idaho
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.
- Deluxe Dental Group: Led by Dr. Walker, Deluxe Dental Group specializes in cosmetic dentistry. As part of that cosmetic emphasis, Deluxe provides both Six Month Smiles and Invisalign.
- Post Falls Family Dental: If you’re looking for a reputable, well-established general dental practice in Post Falls, check out Post Falls Family Dental. They’ve established a reputation for excellence (as proven by their 200+ positive Google reviews).
What Are the Most Affordable Clear Aligners in Idaho?
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. Overall, Idaho has a pretty affordable cost of living, but dental treatment prices aren’t quite as low as other regions of the country. In most states, business-related taxes also impact your treatment costs. Thankfully, Idaho doesn’t have huge taxes.
For starters, the state’s business tax is 6.925%. That’s somewhat higher than other areas. But if your treatment provider adds onto your treatment price to accommodate for that tax, it won’t be a huge add-on. The same goes for the state’s 6% sales tax. As a whole, Idaho has pretty manageable in-person aligner prices—fairly close to the national averages, but not as cheap as certain areas.
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 clear kit aligner reviews and service comparisons.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for teeth straightening in Idaho, 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!