Invisalign clear aligners are one of the most popular orthodontic treatments in Canada. Here is what they cost, how to pay for them, and how they compare to traditional braces.
Invisalign cost in Canada by treatment type
| Treatment | Best For | Aligners | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Invisalign Express | Very minor corrections | Up to 7 | 3-6 months | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Invisalign Lite | Mild crowding/spacing | Up to 14 | 6-12 months | $3,000–$5,000 |
| Invisalign Moderate | Moderate corrections | Up to 26 | 12-18 months | $4,000–$6,500 |
| Invisalign Comprehensive | Complex cases | Unlimited | 12-24 months | $5,000–$8,000 |
| Invisalign Teen | Teens, mixed dentition | Varies | 12-24 months | $4,000–$7,500 |
| Invisalign First | Children (Phase 1) | Varies | 6-18 months | $3,500–$5,500 |
Invisalign cost by province
| Province | Invisalign Lite | Invisalign Comprehensive |
|---|---|---|
| British Columbia | $3,500–$5,500 | $5,500–$8,500 |
| Alberta | $3,000–$5,000 | $5,000–$8,000 |
| Saskatchewan | $3,000–$4,800 | $5,000–$7,500 |
| Manitoba | $3,000–$4,800 | $5,000–$7,500 |
| Ontario | $3,500–$5,500 | $5,500–$8,500 |
| Quebec | $3,000–$5,000 | $5,000–$7,800 |
| Atlantic Canada | $3,000–$5,000 | $5,000–$7,500 |
Costs are highest in major cities (Toronto, Vancouver) and lowest in smaller centres and rural areas.
What is included in the Invisalign price
Most Invisalign quotes include:
- Initial consultation and digital scan (iTero)
- All aligner trays for the treatment plan
- Attachments (tooth-coloured bumps bonded to teeth)
- Refinement aligners if teeth do not track perfectly
- Regular check-up appointments (every 6-10 weeks)
- Retainers (1 set — additional sets are usually extra)
Ask your orthodontist whether refinements and retainers are included before starting treatment. Some quotes are all-inclusive while others charge extra.
Invisalign vs braces cost comparison
| Treatment | Cost | Visibility | Comfort | Treatment Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metal braces | $5,000–$8,000 | Very visible | Lower | 18-30 months |
| Ceramic braces | $6,000–$9,000 | Less visible | Lower | 18-30 months |
| Lingual braces (behind teeth) | $8,000–$12,000 | Hidden | Lowest | 18-36 months |
| Invisalign Lite | $3,000–$5,000 | Nearly invisible | Higher | 6-12 months |
| Invisalign Comprehensive | $5,000–$8,000 | Nearly invisible | Higher | 12-24 months |
For comparable cases, Invisalign and metal braces cost roughly the same. Invisalign is typically more comfortable and less visible, while braces may be better for complex bite issues.
Insurance coverage for Invisalign
| Coverage Type | Typical Benefits |
|---|---|
| Employer dental plan (basic) | 50% up to $1,500-$2,500 lifetime ortho max |
| Employer dental plan (enhanced) | 50-80% up to $2,500-$5,000 lifetime ortho max |
| Individual dental plan | 50% up to $1,000-$2,000 lifetime ortho max |
| Provincial coverage | Not covered in any province |
| HSA (Health Spending Account) | Fully eligible expense |
Most insurance plans that cover orthodontics will cover Invisalign. The lifetime orthodontic maximum is the key number — once you hit it, no further orthodontic benefits are available.
Other ways to pay for Invisalign
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Orthodontist payment plans | Most offices offer 0% interest plans over 12-24 months with a down payment |
| Medical expense tax credit | Claim out-of-pocket orthodontic costs as a medical expense on your tax return (15% federal + provincial credit) |
| HSA / Wellness account | If your employer offers a Health Spending Account, Invisalign is an eligible expense |
| Dental school clinics | UBC, U of T, and other dental schools offer Invisalign at 30-50% off, supervised by faculty |
| Credit card rewards | Some offices take credit cards — use a cash-back or rewards card for the down payment |
Invisalign vs direct-to-consumer clear aligners
| Feature | Invisalign | Direct-to-Consumer (Byte, AlignerCo) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $3,000–$8,000 | $1,500–$3,500 |
| Orthodontist visits | Regular in-person check-ups | Remote monitoring only |
| Case complexity | Mild to complex | Mild cosmetic only |
| Refinements | Usually included | Limited or extra cost |
| X-rays/scans | Yes (in-office) | Impression kit at home |
| Bite correction | Yes | No |
| Supervision | Licensed orthodontist | Remote dentist review |
Direct-to-consumer aligners are cheaper but are only suitable for minor cosmetic improvements. They do not correct bite issues and lack in-person professional oversight.
Tips for saving on Invisalign in Canada
- Get multiple quotes — prices vary by 20-30% between orthodontists in the same city
- Ask about Invisalign Lite — if your case is mild, Lite is significantly cheaper than Comprehensive
- Maximize your insurance — if both spouses have dental plans, coordinate benefits for higher coverage
- Time your treatment — start in December to split costs across two tax years for the medical expense credit
- Check dental schools — university orthodontic clinics offer supervised treatment at reduced rates
- Negotiate — some offices offer cash-pay discounts of 5-10% if you pay the full amount upfront
- Use your HSA first — Health Spending Account dollars are tax-free, making them the cheapest way to pay
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