Detailed Introduction
Motto Clear Aligners is a brand of clear aligners offered exclusively through Aspen Dental, a large network of dental clinics across the United States. Launched by Aspen Dental Management Inc. in 2020, Motto aims to provide an affordable, high-quality, and convenient solution for teeth straightening, primarily for mild to moderate malocclusion cases such as crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and open bites.
The distinguishing feature of Motto Clear Aligners is its "doctor-led" and "in-person care" model. Unlike some direct-to-consumer aligner brands that rely solely on remote monitoring, Motto emphasizes regular in-office visits with an Aspen Dental doctor. This ensures personalized care, professional oversight, and the ability to make real-time adjustments to the treatment plan, minimizing potential complications and ensuring optimal results. While they offer the MottoMonitoring™ app for virtual check-ins, it serves as a complement to, not a replacement for, essential in-office guidance.
Motto aligners are custom-crafted from a durable, yet flexible, transparent thermoplastic material. This material is designed with a three-layer structure – a flexible inner layer and two strong outer layers – to apply gentle, consistent pressure, moving teeth predictably and comfortably. The aligners are laser-cut to seamlessly conform to the patient's teeth and gumline, and they possess antibacterial properties to resist odor and stains.
The treatment process with Motto Clear Aligners typically begins with a thorough dental examination, digital 3D scans of the teeth, X-rays, and photos at an Aspen Dental clinic. Based on this, a customized treatment plan is developed by the dentist. Patients usually receive their first set of aligners shortly after, sometimes even on the same day due to onsite labs and advanced in-office technology. Patients are instructed to wear their aligners for approximately 22 hours per day, changing to a new set every 1-2 weeks as prescribed. Regular check-up appointments (typically every 6-8 weeks) are scheduled to monitor progress.
Motto Clear Aligners are marketed as a more affordable alternative to traditional braces and other clear aligner brands like Invisalign, with a flat rate of around $2,999 for mild to moderate cases, which includes aligners, retainers, and a teeth-whitening kit. They also offer flexible payment options, including dental financing, insurance plans, and FSA/HSA utilization. The average treatment time for Motto patients is reported to be as little as 6 months.