You're not the only practice weighing it. Volume-tier pricing, restricted case acceptance, and provider requirements push more dentists to look for a simpler partner every year — here's what actually changes when you switch.
See How Switching WorksThese are the most common reasons practices start looking for an alternative.
Large aligner brands run tiered provider programs — your per-case pricing and perks depend on hitting annual case-volume targets, not just being a good fit for your patients.
Complex cases are sometimes referred out or limited based on your provider tier, rather than left entirely to your clinical judgment.
Refinements, additional aligners, and software fees can add up beyond the sticker price you first signed up for.
Tier status is often tied to sustained volume — a slower quarter can mean losing pricing or perks you'd built up.
A straightforward comparison of how the two models typically differ.
| Typical Big-Brand Program | AlignerHub | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing structure | Tiered by annual case volume | Simple per-case pricing, no volume tiers |
| Minimum commitment | Sustained case volume to keep tier status | No minimum case volume or contract |
| Case acceptance | Can be limited by provider level | Orthodontist-led planning for mild to complex cases |
| Getting started | Formal certification / training program | Start with a free treatment plan, no retraining |
| Planning team | Software-driven, self-service planning | Reviewed by ex-Invisalign & ex-ClearCorrect clinicians |
Comparison reflects publicly available information about large clear aligner provider programs as of 2026 and general industry structure; specific terms vary by provider agreement and may change. Not affiliated with Align Technology, Inc. or Straumann Group.
No retraining, no waiting for a new certification tier to unlock case types.
Submit patient records the same way you always have — scans, photos, and X-rays. Your first digital treatment plan is free.
Our clinical team, led by ex-Invisalign and ex-ClearCorrect planners, builds a full 3D treatment plan for your approval — no software to learn.
Approve, we manufacture and ship. Send your next case whenever you have one — no volume targets to hit in between.
Aligners are made from FDA-approved materials (Essix and Zendura) under ISO-13485-certified quality control — treatment quality and wear experience are built to the same clinical standard patients already expect.
No. You submit case data the same way you do today. Our clinical team handles treatment planning, so there's no new software or certification process to complete before you can start.
No. There's no volume commitment or contract — send a case whenever you have one, at your own pace.
Yes. Many practices start by sending us a single case to compare before deciding whether to shift more of their caseload over.
Your first treatment plan and first set of aligners are free — no commitment, no new certification required.