Spark is a clear aligner system from Ormco, an orthodontic manufacturer based in the United States. It moves teeth with a series of removable trays, in the same way as Invisalign. Civic Gentle Dental Care offers Spark alongside Invisalign and Angel Aligner at our Canberra City practice.
We check your teeth, gums and bite before recommending Spark. If another aligner, fixed braces or a specialist referral would suit you better, we will say so.
Spark trays are made from a material Ormco calls TruGEN. According to Ormco, it is designed for clarity and stain resistance, and the trays are finished with polished, scalloped edges for comfort. How trays feel varies from person to person.
Your dentist plans treatment in Ormco’s Approver software, which allows attachments, cut-outs and bite ramps to be placed where your case needs them. Like all aligners, Spark trays are not invisible and can be noticed up close.
Spark and Invisalign use the same approach: custom trays, digital planning and staged tray changes. The differences lie in the company, the tray material and the planning software.
| Spark | Invisalign | |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Ormco | Align Technology |
| Tray material | TruGEN | SmartTrack |
| Planning software | Approver | ClinCheck |
| Estimated cost at Civic Gentle Dental Care | $3,700 – $8,490 | $4,200 – $8,990 |
Neither is better for every patient. We explain which system we recommend for you and why. Compare all three systems on our clear aligners page.
Read our full guide to Spark aligners vs Invisalign, or see how Spark compares with Angel Aligner in Spark vs Angel aligners.
Angel Aligner, from Angelalign Technology, uses a material called masterControl S and is planned on iOrtho software. It treats a similar range of crowding, spacing and bite concerns, subject to assessment. Read more on our Angel Aligners page.
Spark may be an option for mild to moderate crowding or spacing, some bite concerns, or teeth that have shifted since earlier treatment. You will need to wear the trays consistently for them to work.
Ormco advises treating active gum disease before starting. Complex jaw or bite problems may be better suited to braces or a specialist orthodontist.
Our current price guide estimates Spark treatment at $3,700 to $8,490, $500 less than our Invisalign estimate of $4,200 to $8,990. Your fee depends on how much movement your teeth need, the number of aligners in your plan and whether refinements are needed.
Your first Spark consultation is complimentary. Interest-free payment plans are available through external providers, subject to approval.
Spark has the same risks as other aligner treatment. These include soreness with new trays, temporary speech changes and gum irritation. Other risks are decay if hygiene slips, root shortening and planned movements that are not fully achieved. Teeth can move back without retainers. Read about treatment risks, recovery and alternatives.
Our price guide estimates $3,700 to $8,490. You receive a written estimate after your complimentary consultation.
Yes. Our price guide estimates Spark at $3,700 to $8,490, $500 less than Invisalign at $4,200 to $8,990.
Neither system is better for everyone. Both can treat a similar range of cases, and we recommend one after assessing your teeth.
Limited movements can take a few months and broader cases 12 months or longer. Your plan includes an estimate, but timing can change.
Ormco advises taking them out to eat and to drink anything except cool water. Brush before putting them back in.
Ormco says Spark aligners are currently manufactured in the United States.
Find out whether Spark suits you. Book online or call (02) 6247 0224. Spark, TruGEN and Approver are trademarks of Ormco. Results vary between patients. Discuss the risks, benefits and alternatives with your dentist before deciding on treatment.
