Can You Switch from Braces to Clear Aligners?

Yes, switching from braces to clear aligners mid-treatment is possible for many patients, but not everyone. Your orthodontist will need to evaluate several factors, including:

• Your current treatment progress
• The complexity of your remaining tooth movements
• Whether clear aligners can effectively complete your treatment

Clear aligner technology has improved significantly, allowing them to treat a wider range of orthodontic issues than in the past. However, very severe misalignments or complex bite issues might still require the sturdiness and consistency of braces.

Why Make the Change?

Some people are perfectly content with their braces, and that's great. But for other people, braces can lose their appeal after weeks or months of wear.

The biggest driver is often aesthetics. Clear aligners are nearly invisible, making them far more appealing in professional and social settings where confidence matters. Many patients also discover that the smooth plastic of aligners feels significantly more comfortable than brackets and wires, especially for those who experienced ongoing irritation.

Daily life becomes easier too. Aligners can be removed for brushing and flossing, making dental hygiene much simpler than navigating around braces hardware. There's also the freedom to eat whatever you want without worrying about damaging brackets or getting food stuck in wires. Sometimes it's a major lifestyle change—like a new job requiring client presentations or an upcoming wedding—that makes a less visible option suddenly feel essential.

The Transition Process

If you're considering making the switch, the process typically unfolds in three main phases. First, you'll have a consultation where your orthodontist evaluates whether clear aligners can effectively complete your treatment. If you're a good candidate, they'll develop a transition plan and discuss costs before you decide to proceed.

The actual switch involves carefully removing your brackets and wires, then taking detailed impressions or scans of your teeth. You might receive a temporary retainer during the 2-5 week wait for your custom aligners. Once they arrive, you'll get fitting instructions and begin the final phase of your treatment, wearing aligners for 22+ hours daily and switching sets every two weeks until your teeth reach their desired positions.

Getting the Timing Right

The timing of your switch significantly impacts success—but when you should switch depends on your specific situation. Typically, however, it's best to make the transition in the early or middle stages of your treatment. Regardless, your orthodontist will assess your progress and give advice on the best schedule for you.

• Early treatment (first 6 months): In certain cases, braces might be better for making some of the larger initial shifts. Other times, it might be better to switch earlier for the sake of consistency and comfort throughout treatment.
• Mid-treatment: After the initial shifts have begun and you've made some progress with braces, aligners can come in and put the finishing touches on your smile.
• Late treatment (within 6 months of completion): The cost and time required for switching might outweigh the benefits for such a short remaining period.

Cost Implications

The financial picture depends on your treatment approach and how much work remains to be done.

Abbreviated Aligner Options

If braces have already accomplished the major tooth movements, you might be a candidate for shorter aligner treatments specifically designed for finishing work. Options like Invisalign Express or Invisalign Lite focus on minor adjustments and refinements rather than comprehensive realignment. These abbreviated treatments typically cost $3,500-$5,000 AUD when starting with a new provider, though you may be able to negotiate rates as low as $2,000-$4,000 AUD with your current orthodontist who already has your treatment history.

Full Aligner Treatment

If substantial movement is still needed, you'll require comprehensive aligner treatment. Whether you stay with your current orthodontist or switch providers, expect costs in the $4,000-$8,000+ range, as you're essentially starting a new treatment protocol.

Linea's Advantage for Switchers

This is where Linea's flat-rate pricing structure becomes particularly compelling. Since braces have already moved your teeth partway toward their final positions, you're likely to qualify for a lower complexity tier:

• Tier 1 ($2,698): Often suitable when braces have done most of the heavy lifting
• Tier 2 ($3,898): For cases needing moderate finishing work
• Tier 3 ($4,998): Still competitive even for more complex remaining movements

Before making decisions, verify your health fund coverage, as policies vary significantly on mid-treatment switches.

Provider Options

When switching to clear aligners, you have two main provider options:

Continuing with Your Current Orthodontist

Patients may choose this option because:

• The current orthodontist already knows their treatment history.
• The same orthodontist can manage the entire process seamlessly.
• Transition fees are typically lower than starting new treatment elsewhere.

Exploring Alternative Providers

This might be worth considering if your current orthodontist doesn't offer clear aligners, you're seeking different pricing approaches, or you want a provider that specializes in combining in-person care with convenient remote monitoring—like Linea's approach that offers comprehensive treatment at transparent, flat-rate pricing.

Braces vs. Clear Aligners: A Comparison

Linea: A Modern Clear Aligner Option

For those exploring clear aligner options, Linea offers a contemporary approach that combines in-person dental care with convenient remote monitoring, making treatment more affordable and convenient.

Their clear aligners are designed to be comfortable, effective, and nearly invisible. A full treatment includes:

• Initial in-person consultation
• Digital scanning for precise aligners
• Remote monitoring through their app
• Transparent pricing ($2,698-$4,998 based on complexity)

Conclusion

Switching from braces to clear aligners mid-treatment is possible for many patients, offering improved aesthetics, comfort, and lifestyle flexibility. Success depends on proper timing, suitability of your specific case, and understanding the costs involved.

Whether continuing with your current orthodontist or exploring specialized providers like Linea, the decision should be based on your orthodontic needs, preferences, and budget considerations. The ultimate goal remains achieving a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime.

To learn more about clear aligner options, take Linea's smile quiz or contact their customer support team to discuss your specific situation.