Top Invisalign Alternatives for Orthodontic Practices in 2024
Compare in-office aligner software and external lab services to reduce overhead and increase clinical control.
Written by Hustlin from public information. ArchForm hasn’t joined Hustlin.
Invisalign is the most recognized name in clear aligners, but it is no longer the only option for dental professionals. High lab fees and rigid workflows have led many orthodontists to seek alternatives that offer more flexibility, lower costs, and faster turnaround times for their patients.
First, what is Invisalign?
Best for: Practices that prefer a hands-off manufacturing process and cases requiring proprietary attachments or materials.
Strengths
- Unmatched brand recognition among patients
- Proprietary SmartTrack material for predictable tooth movement
- Extensive clinical support and established treatment protocols
Where it falls short
- High lab fees that reduce practice margins
- Limited doctor control over the digital planning process
- Longer wait times for manufacturing and shipping
The top alternatives
- #1Top pick
ArchForm: The In-Office Aligner Software Solution
ArchForm is a software platform that empowers orthodontists to design and 3D print their own clear aligners in-office. By moving the manufacturing process from a third-party lab to the practice, doctors can significantly reduce the cost per case and provide aligners to patients much faster.
- Eliminates high lab fees by using in-office 3D printing
- Provides full clinical control over every tooth movement
- Enables same-day or next-day treatment starts
- Compatible with most open-source 3D printers and scanners
- #2Alternative
ClearCorrect
A major competitor to Invisalign owned by Straumann, offering a similar lab-based model but often with more flexible pricing tiers and a simpler clinical interface.
Best for: Doctors looking for a reputable lab-based alternative with lower overhead than Invisalign.
- #3Alternative
uLab Systems
A software-based platform designed for fast treatment planning and in-office finishing, allowing for efficient movement of simple to moderate cases.
Best for: Practices focused on high-speed digital workflows and finishing cases in-house.
- #4Alternative
SureSmile
A comprehensive digital platform by Dentsply Sirona that integrates with various hardware and offers robust tools for both aligners and lab-made appliances.
Best for: Practices already integrated into the Dentsply Sirona ecosystem.
- #5Alternative
CandidPro
A system that combines professional-led treatment with a remote monitoring platform to reduce the number of required in-office visits.
Best for: Practices wanting to scale their aligner volume while minimizing chair time.
Side-by-side comparison
| Category | ArchForm | Invisalign | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Location | In-office (3D Printed) | External Lab | Stronger |
| Cost per Case | Software fee + materials | High fixed lab fee | Stronger |
| Turnaround Time | Same-day possible | 2-4 weeks | Stronger |
| Patient Brand Awareness | Low (Practice-branded) | Very High | Stronger |
| Clinical Control | Full control by doctor | Technician-assisted | Stronger |
| Material Propriety | Open (Choose your resin) | Proprietary (SmartTrack) | Neck-and-neck |
Frequently asked questions
Is ArchForm cheaper than Invisalign?
Yes. Because ArchForm is a software-based solution, you avoid the high lab fees associated with Invisalign. You only pay for the software use and your own 3D printing materials.
Do I need a 3D printer to use ArchForm?
To get the full cost-saving benefits, an in-office 3D printer is required to produce the models for the aligners. However, ArchForm also offers a print-and-ship service if needed.
Ready to lower your aligner overhead?
Join the thousands of orthodontists using ArchForm to take control of their digital workflow.
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