Switching Invisalign providers mid-treatment is generally possible but requires careful planning and coordination. This transfer involves moving your current treatment plan and any remaining physical aligners from your original doctor to a new provider. The patient must coordinate the logistics, financial adjustments, and clinical continuity with both the departing and accepting practices. Successfully changing providers allows you to continue treatment without losing the progress you have already made.
Is Switching Providers Allowed?
The ability to transfer treatment stems from the nature of the Invisalign system, manufactured by Align Technology. Treatment is based on a digital plan, known as the ClinCheck, and the physical aligners are custom-made for specific stages of tooth movement. Since the remaining aligners and the digital plan are tied to your specific case, they are considered part of your treatment records, not the exclusive property of the original provider.
The transfer process is formalized through an Invisalign Patient Transfer form, which moves your case and ClinCheck files between doctors within the Align Technology system. While the original provider must assist with releasing records, the final decision to accept your case rests with the new provider. A new doctor must be willing to assume clinical responsibility for a case they did not initially plan. Some providers may prefer to start a case from the beginning, so finding one who accepts transfers is the initial step.
The Step-by-Step Transfer Process
The first action is selecting a new certified Invisalign provider and confirming their willingness to accept a mid-treatment transfer. Once identified, formally notify your original doctor of your decision to transfer care. You should request a complete copy of your treatment records, a right granted under privacy regulations like HIPAA.
These records include diagnostic images (such as X-rays and 3D scans), clinical notes, and the digital ClinCheck treatment plan. The original provider is obligated to release these records to your new provider upon request. After the records are transferred, the new provider reviews the case and completes the Patient Transfer form to officially assume responsibility for your ongoing treatment.
Understanding the Financial Costs
Transferring an Invisalign case mid-treatment involves a new financial arrangement with the accepting provider. The initial step is determining the refund from your original provider, which is typically calculated on a pro-rata basis. This means you are only charged for the services rendered up to the point of transfer.
The new provider will charge a fee to complete the remaining portion of your treatment. This cost often includes a specific transfer or setup fee to compensate the new doctor for reviewing your history and taking over clinical responsibility. Since the total cost is split between two providers, the overall expenditure may be slightly higher than the initial quoted fee due to these administrative charges. Discuss all potential fees, including charges for future refinements, with the new provider upfront to avoid unexpected costs.
Addressing Treatment Continuity Issues
Even with a successful transfer of records and finances, clinical hurdles can arise concerning treatment continuity. The new provider must agree with the original ClinCheck plan, the virtual representation of your tooth movement. If the new doctor identifies issues or has a different clinical philosophy, they may recommend a mid-course correction or new scans to create a revised plan.
If new aligners are needed, this process can introduce a delay of several weeks while the new ClinCheck is submitted, approved, and manufactured. The new provider assumes full responsibility for any future charges incurred for refinements or mid-course corrections. In the interim, you will typically be advised to wear your last set of aligners full-time to prevent tooth regression while the new doctor finalizes the next phase.