Your smile is crooked, and you’ve been thinking about fixing it for years. Maybe you avoided braces as a teenager, or perhaps your teeth shifted after getting your wisdom teeth removed. Whatever the reason, you’re finally ready to do something about it—but the thought of traditional metal braces makes you cringe, and the price tag on Invisalign makes your wallet cry.
Enter Motto Clear Aligners, Aspen Dental’s answer to the invisible braces revolution. Launched in 2021, this teeth straightening system promises professional results at a fraction of the cost of other clear aligner brands. But here’s the question everyone’s asking: are these affordable aligners actually good, or are you getting what you pay for?
I’ve spent considerable time researching Motto Clear Aligners, examining patient reviews, comparing them to competitors, and understanding what makes them different. What I’ve discovered is that Motto represents an interesting middle ground in the clear aligner market—more accessible than premium brands but with professional oversight that budget direct-to-consumer options lack.
Let’s explore everything you need to know about Motto Clear Aligners, from how they work and what they cost to whether they’re the right choice for your teeth straightening journey.
What Are Motto Clear Aligners?
Motto Clear Aligners are a teeth straightening system created by Aspen Dental, one of the largest dental service organizations in the United States. Unlike direct-to-consumer aligner companies that work remotely, Motto treatments are supervised by dentists at Aspen Dental locations throughout the country.
The Concept Behind Motto
Aspen Dental launched Motto in 2021 with a specific goal: make professional teeth straightening accessible to more people without sacrificing clinical oversight. According to Aspen Dental’s announcement, the system combines doctor guidance with technology to deliver results efficiently.
The name “Motto” reflects the brand’s philosophy of making orthodontic care straightforward and achievable—a motto you can live by, so to speak.
How Motto Differs from Other Options
Motto occupies an interesting position in the clear aligner landscape:
Not Direct-to-Consumer: Unlike SmileDirectClub or Byte, Motto requires in-person visits to Dental offices for evaluation, monitoring, and adjustments.
Not Premium Pricing: Unlike Invisalign or ClearCorrect, Motto costs significantly less while still providing professional supervision.
Corporate Dental Model: As part of Aspen Dental’s network, Motto leverages economies of scale to reduce costs while maintaining standards.
This positioning makes Motto appealing to people who want professional oversight but find traditional orthodontic fees prohibitive.
How Motto Clear Aligners Work
Understanding how Motto Clear Aligners function helps set realistic expectations about the treatment process.
The Treatment Process
Initial Consultation: You visit a Dental office for examination. The dentist evaluates whether you’re a good candidate for clear aligners and discusses your goals.
Digital Imaging: Instead of messy traditional impressions, it uses digital scanning technology to create a 3D model of your teeth.
Treatment Planning: The dentist develops a customized treatment plan showing how your teeth will move over time. You’ll see a digital preview of your expected results.
Aligner Fabrication: Your custom aligners are manufactured based on the treatment plan. Motto’s unique approach means you often receive your first set of aligners during the same visit.
Progressive Wearing: You wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, gradually shifting your teeth into alignment. Most people wear aligners 20-22 hours per day, removing them only for eating and oral hygiene.
Monitoring Visits: Periodic check-ins at a dental office ensure treatment progresses as planned. Adjustments can be made if needed.
Completion and Retention: Once treatment ends, you’ll receive retainers to maintain your new smile.
Same-Day Start: A Key Differentiator
One of Motto’s standout features is that many patients receive their first aligner set on the same day as their consultation. This “Tray One on Day One” approach eliminates the weeks-long wait common with other systems, letting you start treatment immediately.
Treatment Duration
Typical Motto treatment times range from 4 to 12 months, depending on the complexity of your case. Simple crowding or spacing issues resolve faster than complex bite problems or severe misalignment.
Motto Clear Aligners Cost: Breaking Down the Investment
One of the biggest questions people have: what’s the Motto Clear Aligners cost? The answer is refreshingly straightforward compared to many dental treatments.
Base Pricing Structure
Motto Clear Aligners typically cost around $2,500-$3,500 for complete treatment. This price generally includes:
- Initial consultation and examination
- Digital scanning and imaging
- Custom treatment planning
- All aligners needed for your specific case
- Monitoring appointments throughout treatment
- Retainers after completion
Comparison with Other Options
| Treatment Option | Average Cost | Professional Oversight | Office Visits |
| Motto Clear Aligners | $2,500-$3,500 | Yes (dentist-supervised) | Required |
| Invisalign | $3,000-$8,000 | Yes (orthodontist) | Required |
| ClearCorrect | $2,000-$5,000 | Yes (dentist/orthodontist) | Required |
| SmileDirectClub | $1,850-$2,050 | Remote only | Optional |
| Byte | $1,895-$2,295 | Remote only | None |
| Traditional Braces | $3,000-$7,000 | Yes (orthodontist) | Required |
The Motto price point sits notably below Invisalign while remaining above direct-to-consumer options, reflecting its hybrid model of affordability with professional care.
What Affects Your Final Cost
Several factors influence your specific Motto treatment cost:
Case Complexity: Simple spacing or crowding issues may fall on the lower end, while more complex alignment needs increase costs.
Treatment Duration: Longer treatment requiring more aligner sets naturally costs more.
Geographic Location: Aspen Dental pricing varies slightly by region and local market factors.
Insurance Coverage: Some dental insurance plans cover a portion of orthodontic treatment, potentially reducing your out-of-pocket costs.
Financing Options: Some Dental offices offer payment plans that can break the cost into manageable monthly installments, often with 0% interest for qualified patients.
Payment Plans and Financing
Private insurance companies understand that even $2,500-$3,500 is a significant investment for many people. They typically offer:
- Monthly payment plans with no or low interest
- Flexible terms ranging from 12 to 24 months
- Low or no down payment options
- Acceptance of CareCredit and other healthcare financing
- Some offices may offer promotional pricing during specific periods
This flexibility makes Motto accessible to people who can’t pay the full amount upfront but can manage monthly payments of $100-$200.
Motto Clear Aligners vs Invisalign: A Detailed Comparison
The Motto Clear Aligners vs Invisalign comparison is inevitable since Invisalign essentially created the clear aligner category and remains the best-known brand.
Brand Recognition and History
Invisalign: Launched in 1999, Invisalign pioneered clear aligner technology and has treated over 14 million patients worldwide. The brand benefits from extensive clinical research, continuous innovation, and strong brand recognition.
Motto: Introduced in 2021, Motto is relatively new but backed by Aspen Dental’s extensive network of over 1,000 offices. While lacking Invisalign’s decades of refinement, Motto benefits from learning from established aligner systems.
Technology and Materials
Invisalign: Uses proprietary SmartTrack material designed specifically for predictable tooth movement. The material is medical-grade thermoplastic designed for comfort and effectiveness.
Motto: Uses medical-grade plastic similar to other clear aligner systems. While not Invisalign’s proprietary material, the aligners are designed to be durable and comfortable.
Both systems use digital treatment planning and 3D printing technology, though Invisalign’s software (ClinCheck) is more advanced and refined from years of development.
Treatment Capabilities
Invisalign: Can address a wide range of orthodontic issues from simple to complex, including:
- Severe crowding and spacing
- Significant bite problems (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
- Rotation and complex tooth movements
- Cases that previously required traditional braces
Motto: Best suited for mild to moderate cases:
- Minor to moderate crowding
- Spacing issues
- Minor bite corrections
- Cosmetic alignment improvements
If you have complex orthodontic needs, Invisalign’s capabilities may be necessary, while Motto works well for straightforward cases.
Professional Oversight
Invisalign: Typically provided by orthodontists or specially trained dentists, offering the highest level of specialized expertise.
Motto: Supervised by general dentists, providing professional oversight but not necessarily orthodontic specialization.
Cost Comparison
This is where Motto shines:
Invisalign: $3,000-$8,000 depending on complexity and provider
Motto: $2,500-$3,500 for most cases
The Motto cost advantage is significant—potentially saving $2,000-$4,000 compared to Invisalign treatment.
Convenience Factors
Invisalign: Available at numerous orthodontic and dental offices nationwide, offering flexible provider choice.
Motto: Only available at Aspen Dental locations, which limits options but ensures consistent pricing and protocols.
Best Choice For Different Scenarios
Choose Invisalign If:
- You have complex orthodontic issues
- You want the most established, researched brand
- You prefer working with an orthodontist specialist
- Cost is not a primary concern
- You want access to the latest aligner technology
Choose Motto If:
- Your case is mild to moderate in complexity
- Cost is a significant factor
- You value the convenience of a large office network
- You’re comfortable with dentist (vs. orthodontist) supervision
- You want to start treatment quickly
Are Motto Clear Aligners Good? Evaluating Quality and Effectiveness
The crucial question: are Motto Clear Aligners good? Let’s examine this from multiple angles.
Clinical Effectiveness
Clear aligner technology itself is well-established. Research published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine confirms that clear aligners can effectively treat many orthodontic conditions when properly prescribed and monitored.
Motto’s effectiveness depends largely on:
Appropriate Case Selection: Motto works well for the cases it’s designed to treat. Problems arise when it’s used for situations beyond its scope.
Professional Oversight: The dentist supervision model means treatment is monitored, problems can be caught, and adjustments made—a significant advantage over purely remote systems.
Patient Compliance: Like all clear aligners, Motto only works if you wear them as directed (20-22 hours daily). No aligner system can overcome poor compliance.
Material Quality
Motto aligners use medical-grade plastic that’s FDA-cleared for orthodontic use. While not Invisalign’s proprietary material, the aligners are:
- Durable enough for the treatment duration
- Comfortable for daily wear
- Clear enough to be discreet
- Safe for extended oral use
Patient Experience and Reviews
Real-world feedback on Motto Clear Aligners is mixed but generally leans positive for appropriate cases:
Positive Feedback:
- Significant cost savings compared to Invisalign
- Convenience of the Aspen Dental network
- Professional oversight provides peace of mind
- Same-day start eliminates waiting
- Results comparable to other aligner systems for simple cases
Concerns Raised:
- Limited to cases Aspen Dental deems appropriate
- Some patients felt pushed toward treatment even when marginal candidates
- Dentist vs. orthodontist expertise differences
- Corporate dental environment may prioritize efficiency over customization
According to discussions on platforms like Reddit, patient satisfaction with Motto correlates strongly with case complexity—simpler cases report better experiences than those with more challenging alignment needs.
Success Factors
Motto Clear Aligners tend to be “good” when:
- Your case falls within the system’s capabilities (mild to moderate issues)
- You’re evaluated by an experienced dentist who honestly assesses suitability
- You commit to wearing aligners as directed
- You attend all monitoring appointments
- You have realistic expectations about results and timeline
Clear Aligners: Understanding Your Options Beyond Motto
While we’re focused on Motto, understanding the broader clear aligners landscape helps contextualize where Motto fits.
The Clear Aligner Revolution
Clear aligners have transformed orthodontics over the past two decades. What started with Invisalign has expanded into a crowded market with options at every price point and service level.
Categories of Clear Aligner Providers
Premium Professional Systems:
- Invisalign (market leader)
- ClearCorrect (strong second option)
- 3M Clarity Aligners
- Characterized by: High cost, extensive capabilities, orthodontist supervision
Mid-Tier Professional Systems:
- Motto Clear Aligners
- SureSmile
- Characterized by: Moderate cost, dentist supervision, good for mild-moderate cases
Direct-to-Consumer Systems:
- SmileDirectClub
- Byte
- Candid
- Characterized by: Lower cost, remote supervision, limited to simple cases
The Professional Supervision Advantage
One of Motto’s strengths is maintaining professional oversight while reducing costs. Research indicates that dentist-supervised aligner treatment has advantages:
Early Problem Detection: In-person monitoring catches issues before they become significant Treatment Adjustments: Plans can be modified if teeth aren’t moving as expected Comprehensive Care: Dentists can address other oral health issues discovered during treatment
Safety: Professional evaluation reduces risk of moving teeth inappropriately or masking underlying problems
According to ongoing clinical research, professional oversight remains important for optimizing aligner treatment outcomes and patient safety.
Invisible Braces: The Technology Behind Clear Aligners
Invisible braces—another term for clear aligners—represent sophisticated orthodontic engineering that’s worth understanding.
How Clear Aligners Move Teeth
The science behind clear teeth aligners involves controlled force application:
Pressure Points: Each aligner is designed slightly different from your current tooth position, creating gentle pressure that encourages tooth movement.
Bone Remodeling: Pressure triggers your body’s natural bone remodeling process. Bone dissolves on the pressure side and forms on the opposite side, allowing teeth to shift.
Progressive Movement: By changing aligners every 1-2 weeks, teeth move gradually and predictably toward the desired position.
SmartTrack vs. Standard Materials: Premium systems like Invisalign use materials engineered for optimal force delivery, while systems like Motto use effective but less specialized materials.
Advances in Aligner Technology
Modern clear aligner systems benefit from continuous innovation:
Digital Scanning: Replaces uncomfortable traditional impressions with quick, accurate 3D scans
AI Treatment Planning: Algorithms help predict tooth movement and optimize aligner design
Material Science: Newer plastics offer better clarity, durability, and force characteristics
Attachment Optimization: Small tooth-colored bumps bonded to teeth help aligners grip better for certain movements
Manufacturing Precision: 3D printing creates aligners with microscopic accuracy
Motto incorporates many of these advances, though not always at the cutting-edge level of premium systems.
Teeth Straightening: Is Motto Right for Your Case?
Teeth straightening needs vary widely. Understanding your specific situation helps determine if Motto Clear Aligners are appropriate.
Best Candidates for Motto
You’re likely a good Motto candidate if you have:
Mild to Moderate Crowding: Teeth overlap slightly or compete for space
Spacing Issues: Gaps between teeth you’d like closed
Minor Rotations: Individual teeth turned slightly out of position
Slight Bite Problems: Minor overbite or other bite issues
Cosmetic Concerns: Your teeth function fine but you want aesthetic improvement
Previous Orthodontics: Your teeth shifted after earlier braces treatment
Who Should Consider Alternatives
Motto may not be suitable if you have:
Severe Crowding: Significant overlapping requiring extensive movement or extractions
Complex Bite Issues: Substantial overbite, underbite, or crossbite problems
Significant Rotations: Teeth turned more than 20-30 degrees
Vertical Problems: Issues with tooth height or eruption
TMJ Disorders: Jaw joint problems requiring orthodontic specialist care
Young Teens: Motto works best for adults and older teens with fully erupted teeth
For these situations, traditional braces or Invisalign with orthodontist supervision may be necessary.
The Evaluation Process
When you visit a Dental office for Motto consultation, expect:
- Comprehensive Examination: Full mouth evaluation including X-rays
- Digital Imaging: 3D scan of your teeth and bite
- Treatment Planning: Computer simulation showing expected results
- Honest Assessment: Discussion of whether Motto can achieve your goals
- Alternative Options: If Motto isn’t suitable, discussion of other approaches
A good dentist will be honest about Motto’s limitations and recommend alternatives when appropriate.
Motto Clear Aligners: The Complete Treatment Experience
What’s it actually like to use Motto Clear Aligners? Let’s walk through the patient experience.
Week 1: Getting Started
You visit the dental office for your consultation. After examination and scanning, the dentist creates your treatment plan and, in many cases, you receive your first aligner set the same day.
The first few days feel strange as you adjust to wearing plastic trays in your mouth. Talking might feel awkward initially, and you’ll produce more saliva as your mouth adjusts. By day 3-4, you’ll hardly notice you’re wearing them.
Weeks 2-4: Finding Your Rhythm
You develop routines for:
- Removing aligners before meals
- Brushing teeth before reinserting them
- Cleaning aligners daily
- Storing aligners safely when removed
You might experience mild soreness for 1-2 days after switching to each new aligner set—this indicates teeth are moving.
Months 2-6: The Middle Phase
This is the least eventful period. You’re in the groove of wearing and changing aligners. You attend periodic monitoring appointments where the dentist checks progress and provides your next sets of aligners.
You start noticing changes in your smile. Friends might comment that something looks different but can’t quite identify what.
Final Months: Approaching Completion
Your teeth look noticeably straighter. You’re excited to finish treatment but understand the importance of completing all aligners for optimal results.
Retention Phase
Treatment doesn’t truly end when you finish your final aligner. Retainers are crucial for maintaining results. Most people need to wear retainers:
- Full-time for 3-6 months after treatment
- Nightly indefinitely to prevent shifting
Skipping retention is the primary reason teeth shift back after aligner treatment.
Cost Considerations: Making Motto Affordable
Even at $2,500-$3,500, Motto Clear Aligners cost represents a significant investment. Here are strategies to make it work:
Insurance Coverage
Check if your dental insurance includes orthodontic benefits:
- Many plans cover $1,000-$1,500 for orthodontic treatment
- Coverage often applies regardless of age (not just children)
- Both traditional braces and clear aligners typically qualify
- You’ll need to verify Motto specifically is covered
Even partial coverage significantly reduces out-of-pocket costs.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
Use pre-tax dollars to pay for Motto treatment:
- Contributes to qualifying FSA/HSA expenses
- Effectively gives you a discount equal to your tax rate
- Can be combined with payment plans
Payment Plans
Aspen Dental typically offers:
- 0% interest financing for 12-24 months for qualified patients
- Low down payment requirements
- Monthly payments of $100-$150 depending on term
- Automatic payment options for convenience
Timing Strategies
Consider strategic timing:
- Start treatment late in the year to spread costs across two tax years for FSA purposes
- Take advantage of year-end benefit maximums before they reset
- Watch for promotional pricing during slower periods
Comparing Total Value
When evaluating cost, consider:
- What you’re getting (complete treatment with professional oversight)
- What you’re saving (compared to Invisalign)
- Long-term value (a straighter smile affects confidence for years)
- Monthly budget impact (payment plans make it manageable)
The Future of Accessible Orthodontics
Motto Clear Aligners represent a broader trend toward democratized orthodontic care. The future looks promising for people seeking affordable teeth straightening.
Technology Continues Advancing
Innovations that will improve all clear aligner systems:
AI-Enhanced Planning: Machine learning will optimize treatment plans based on thousands of previous cases
Material Improvements: New plastics will offer better force characteristics and comfort
Faster Treatment: Innovations may reduce treatment times by 30-40%
Remote Monitoring: App-based progress tracking with AI analysis will supplement office visits
The Professional vs. DIY Debate
The orthodontic community continues debating appropriate levels of oversight for clear aligners. Motto’s model—professional supervision at accessible prices—may represent an optimal balance.
Research suggests that while direct-to-consumer aligners work for simple cases, professional oversight catches problems that patients and remote evaluations miss. Systems like Motto provide this oversight while maintaining affordability.
Market Competition Benefits Consumers
As more players enter the clear aligner market, competition drives:
- Lower prices across all segments
- Better technology and materials
- Improved patient experiences
- More financing options
This trend benefits everyone considering teeth straightening, regardless of which system they choose.
Making Your Decision: Is Motto Right for You?
After exploring every aspect of Motto Clear Aligners, how do you decide if they’re your best option?
Decision Framework
Evaluate Your Case Complexity:
- Simple spacing/crowding issues → Motto is likely suitable
- Moderate alignment problems → Motto worth considering
- Complex orthodontic needs → Consider Invisalign or traditional braces
Assess Your Budget:
- $2,500-$3,500 range is manageable → Motto offers excellent value
- Need to minimize costs → Explore direct-to-consumer options (with caution)
- Budget is flexible → Consider Invisalign for maximum capabilities
Consider Your Priorities:
- Value professional oversight → Motto provides this
- Want cutting-edge technology → Invisalign leads here
- Prioritize convenience → Aspen Dental’s network is extensive
- Need orthodontist specialist → Traditional orthodontic treatment may be best
Questions to Ask at Your Consultation
Before committing to Motto:
- “Am I definitely a good candidate for Motto, or are there concerns?”
- “What’s the realistic timeline for my specific case?”
- “What’s the total cost including all fees?”
- “What financing options are available?”
- “What happens if treatment doesn’t progress as planned?”
- “What’s included in the cost, and what might cost extra?”
- “Can I see before-and-after photos of similar cases?”
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious if:
- You feel pressured to commit immediately
- The dentist doesn’t thoroughly explain your treatment plan
- Your concerns or questions are dismissed
- The practice won’t provide written cost estimates
- You’re told Motto can fix everything regardless of complexity
Conclusion: Motto’s Place in Modern Orthodontics
Motto Clear Aligners represent an important option in the evolving landscape of teeth straightening. They’re not perfect for everyone or every situation, but they fill a valuable niche—professional orthodontic care at a price point between budget DIY options and premium systems.
The key insights to remember:
Affordability with Oversight: Motto costs less than Invisalign while maintaining professional supervision that direct-to-consumer options lack.
Appropriate Case Selection: Motto works excellently for mild to moderate alignment issues but isn’t suitable for complex orthodontic problems.
Convenience Factor: Aspen Dental’s extensive network makes Motto accessible to many Americans, with same-day starts eliminating lengthy waits.
Cost-Effective Value: At $2,500-$3,500 with financing options, Motto makes professional teeth straightening accessible to more people.
Quality Considerations: While not premium-tier, Motto provides effective treatment for appropriate cases when combined with patient compliance and professional monitoring.
For many people—especially those with mild to moderate alignment concerns who want professional care without premium pricing—Motto Clear Aligners offer an excellent solution. The system won’t replace Invisalign for complex cases or satisfy those seeking the absolute cutting edge of orthodontic technology, but it doesn’t need to. Motto serves its intended purpose well: making professional teeth straightening accessible and affordable.
If you’re considering teeth straightening, schedule a consultation to see if Motto is appropriate for your case. Come prepared with questions, have realistic expectations, and remember that the best orthodontic treatment is one that fits your needs, your budget, and your life. For many people, that treatment is Motto Clear Aligners.
