Clear aligners offer a modern and discreet alternative to traditional metal braces, allowing users to straighten their teeth without the visibility and restrictions of conventional options. NewSmile and Aspen Dental are two providers in the clear aligner market, each offering unique features. While both companies aim to deliver affordable, at-home teeth straightening solutions, they differ in pricing, treatment options, payment plans, and additional features. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision on which provider aligns best with your needs.
Pricing is a crucial factor when choosing a clear aligner provider. Here's a comparison of the main aligner plans from NewSmile and Aspen Dental:
| Feature | NewSmile | Aspen Dental |
|---|---|---|
| All-Day Aligners | One-time payment or monthly payment plan for 36 months (US), 24 months (Canada) | Typically higher; pricing varies based on consultation and treatment needs |
| Night Aligners | One-time payment or monthly payment plan for 36 months (US), 24 months (Canada) | Typically higher; pricing varies based on consultation and treatment needs |
| Treatment Duration | Varies by case; typically 4–6 months (All-Day), 8–10 months (Night) | Varies; typically 6–12 months for full treatment depending on complexity |
| Inclusions | Impression Kit, Treatment Preview, Aligners, Whitening Foam, Free Shipping | Consultation, Aligners, Retainers, Monitoring, Free Shipping |
| Retainer Subscription | Optional Annual Subscription | Retainers included in some treatment packages |
Both NewSmile and Aspen Dental offer flexible payment options. NewSmile provides a longer payment term of 36 months in the U.S. and 24 months in Canada, which may appeal to those seeking lower monthly payments. Aspen Dental typically requires consultations for custom pricing, but it often includes more in-office visits as part of its treatment plan, which may result in higher overall costs for some customers.
Both companies provide treatments that vary in duration depending on individual cases and adherence to prescribed wear schedules:
NewSmile: Treatment typically lasts 4 to 6 months for All-Day Aligners and 8 to 10 months for Night Aligners.
Aspen Dental: Treatment durations can range from 6 to 12 months depending on case complexity and whether the patient opts for additional in-office check-ups.
The treatment duration depends on individual factors, including the complexity of your dental needs and how diligently you follow the prescribed aligner wear schedule.
Both providers include key elements in their packages, though Aspen Dental may have more in-office involvement:
NewSmile: Includes an Impression Kit, Treatment Preview, Aligners, Whitening Foam, and Free Shipping.
Aspen Dental: Typically includes Consultation, Aligners, Retainers, Monitoring, and Free Shipping.
NewSmile's inclusion of Whitening Foam may appeal to those interested in whitening their teeth while using aligners. Aspen Dental’s offerings may provide a more comprehensive experience with in-person consultation and monitoring, though this could lead to higher overall costs.
NewSmile offers customer support Monday to Friday from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (PST), and is closed on weekends and statutory holidays. Aspen Dental provides support through their local offices, with in-person consultations, phone, and online communication.
Both NewSmile and Aspen Dental offer effective at-home teeth straightening solutions with distinct features. NewSmile offers a more cost-effective approach, providing clear aligners with a comprehensive kit, optional retainer subscription, and longer payment options. Aspen Dental, on the other hand, offers a more traditional experience with consultations and in-person visits, potentially leading to a more customized treatment plan but with a higher cost.
Your decision between NewSmile and Aspen Dental will largely depend on your preference for at-home convenience or in-office visits, as well as your budget. NewSmile may be a better choice for those looking for a more affordable, at-home treatment with a flexible payment plan, while Aspen Dental may be suitable for those preferring more personalized, in-office care.
