It’s easy to see why Invisalign is so appealing to anyone who wants to achieve a straighter, healthier smile without having to endure adult braces. But exactly how affordable is Invisalign going to be, and how much are you willing to pay for a beautiful smile?
There are many factors that will play into your individual cost for Invisalign, and there are a few things you can generally determine to help you know what to expect before you meet with Dr. de Jongh to discuss your treatment options.
Would Traditional Braces Cost Less Than Invisalign?
Your Invisalign treatment may cost more than traditional braces would, or the two options may be very similar in price – this all depends on your individual needs and your teeth. If you’re interested in Invisalign for its patient-oriented treatment advantages (and who isn’t?), it’s important that you take the fact that no brackets or wires will ever touch the surfaces of your teeth into consideration.
For many patients, it’s well worth the slightly higher cost to be able to wear clear aligners that don’t interfere with your smile or decrease your confidence while straightening your teeth.
Is Invisalign Covered by Insurance?
If you are enrolled in dental insurance, you may be able to receive some level of orthodontic treatment coverage depending on your dental insurance plan. Every plan is different, so check with your provider for help in understanding your dental benefits and whether your provider will cover Invisalign the same way they would traditional metal braces.
Are There Invisalign Payment Plans Available?
There are sources available to help make your Invisalign affordable. Before beginning treatment look to these options for assistance.
Insurance. Your dental insurance may offer coverage p to $3,500 of your treatment cost. Our staff will help you to coordinate your benefits and get you as much coverage as possible to help lower out of pocket costs.
Flex Spending Account. If you have a flexible spending account, you can apply up to $2,550 of your pretax dollars to Invisalign.
Financing and Payment Plans. We believe that a straighter smile should be obtainable regardless of the budget. If you would like information on our payment plan options, let us know so we can discuss your options.
Why Do Invisalign Costs Vary?
Typically, Invisalign costs about $3000 – $5000 in the United States. Your specific cost is determined by some of these factors:
- The complexity of your treatment plan – Your malocclusion is unique. Invisalign is the most advanced clear aligner system available, and can address many different types of crooked teeth and alignment concerns. If you have only slightly crooked teeth, your treatment will not need to be as complex, and your cost will reflect that with a lower number.
- The length of your treatment – During Invisalign, you switch to new aligners on a planned schedule to continue shifting your teeth into the final position. You may need more aligners if you have a more complex case, and a longer treatment time will mean a higher price tag.
- Where you live – Different cities have different costs of treatment due to the amount of competition and the standard cost of living in the area, among other factors.
- What your insurance will cover – If you have dental insurance, you may receive some level of orthodontic treatment coverage. Checking with your provider before beginning treatment will help you to have a better understanding of your benefits and whether your provider will cover any orthodontic treatment.
Additional cost options detailed by Invisalign:
Before you begin your Invisalign treatment, talk to both your doctor’s office and your health benefits manager. You may be able to pay your doctor and be reimbursed from your FSA or HSA account.
What is an FSA?
A flexible savings account, or FSA, is an account you may be able to use to pay for certain medical, dental, and orthodontic costs, including Invisalign. Speak with your employer on if this is something they offer, as not all employers do.
What is an HSA?
A health savings account, or HSA, is a special savings account designed for people with a high-deductible health insurance plan. The money you put into the account can be used to cover certain medical, dental and orthodontic costs. To open an HSA, you must meet IRS eligibility requirements.
Bottom Line: Is Invisalign Worth It?
It can be easy to get hung up on pricing, but don’t overlook the larger impact of Invisalign treatment and all of the benefits that come from a straighter smile. Don’t let cost hold you back from straightening your teeth and restoring your confidence in your smile.
Schedule your commitment-free consultation with Dr. de Jongh and take the first step in getting all of the information you need to make the right choice for you.