Invisalign is a new technology that uses clear plastic aligners to gently move teeth in the correct position. In Lake Elmo, Invisalign offers a more attractive option for fixing teeth than regular braces. The quest for a straighter, more confident smile often leads people to explore orthodontic treatments like Invisalign.
As a convenient treatment that helps give you a beautiful smile, the most obvious question to ask is, “Does insurance cover Invisalign?”
Understanding the financial aspects of such a treatment is crucial. In this blog, we’ll demystify the world of Invisalign costs, what insurance may or may not cover, and explore alternative ways to make this innovative treatment accessible. Whether considering Invisalign for yourself or a family member, you’ll get clear, easy-to-understand insights into navigating the complexities of insurance coverage and the expenses associated with achieving your dream smile.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
The price for Invisalign treatment can vary depending on several factors:
- Complexity of Treatment: The severity of your orthodontic issues affects the cost. More complex cases may require more aligners and, therefore, be more expensive.
- Location: Your area’s cost of living and demand for orthodontic services can influence the overall price.
- Dentist or Orthodontist: The expertise of the professional you choose can impact the cost. Orthodontists typically charge more for their specialized knowledge and experience.
- Additional Services: Additional procedures like teeth extraction or other orthodontic treatments may sometimes be required, adding to the cost.
As a rough estimate, the average cost of Invisalign treatment falls from $3,000 to $8,000. It’s essential to consult with an Invisalign provider for a precise quote tailored to your specific case.
Does Insurance Cover Invisalign Treatment?
Indeed, you can get dental insurance that pays for Invisalign. This means you have choices to make it cost you less. Different insurance plans cover different amounts. Usually, they cover a part of the orthodontic cost. It is important to remember that some plans only cover orthodontics if needed for medical reasons, so they might not cover Invisalign if you are opting for it solely as a cosmetic treatment.
Remember: If your dental plan covers regular braces, it might also cover Invisalign similarly. Just be sure to check if Invisalign is included in your plan. Here’s what you should consider:
- Type of Insurance: Dental insurance plans often differ in what they cover. Some plans may cover Invisalign as part of orthodontic treatment, while others may not.
- Age Limit: Insurance plans may have age restrictions. Some only cover orthodontic treatment for children, while others extend coverage to adults.
- Coverage Limit: Insurance plans typically have a lifetime maximum benefit for orthodontic treatment. This means they will cover up to a certain dollar amount, and you’d be responsible for any costs beyond that limit.
- Waiting Period: Some insurance plans may have a waiting period before orthodontic coverage kicks in.
- Pre-authorization: It’s essential to obtain pre-authorization from your insurance company before starting Invisalign treatment. This helps you understand what expenses will be covered.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost with Insurance?
The cost of Invisalign with insurance can vary significantly based on your specific plan. While insurance can help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses, it’s essential to remember that you might still need to cover a portion of the cost. Typically, you can expect insurance to cover around 20% to 50% of the treatment cost, depending on your plan’s details.
Before starting Invisalign treatment, contact your insurance provider to clarify the terms of your coverage and understand how much you can expect to pay.
Alternative Ways to Pay for Invisalign Treatment
If your insurance plan doesn’t provide adequate coverage or you’re without dental insurance, don’t worry. There are alternative methods to make Invisalign treatment more affordable:
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): These tax-advantaged accounts allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses, including Invisalign treatment.
- Payment Plans: Many Invisalign providers, just like Valley Ridge Dental, offer flexible payment plans that allow you to spread the cost of treatment over several months.
- Orthodontic Discount Plans: Some organizations offer discount plans that provide reduced fees for orthodontic treatments, including Invisalign.
- Credit Options: You can explore healthcare credit options like CareCredit, which offers special financing for medical and dental procedures.
- Consult with Multiple Providers: Get quotes from different Invisalign providers and compare their pricing and payment options to find the most cost-effective solution.
Conclusion
Invisalign can be a life-changing solution for achieving a straighter, more confident smile. While the cost of Invisalign treatment varies, exploring your insurance coverage and alternative payment options is important to make it more accessible. Remember to consult with your dentist or orthodontist to get a precise cost estimate tailored to your specific needs. With the right information and planning, you can be on your way to a beautifully aligned smile.
You can book an appointment by calling (651) 439-0322 or visiting our Lake Elmo office.
FAQs
Why doesn’t my insurance cover Invisalign?
Since Invisalign is considered an elective treatment, it’s typically not covered by insurance. For your insurance to cover Invisalign, you’ll likely need a referral from your dentist or orthodontist. Some insurance companies will only cover Invisalign if it’s deemed medically necessary.
What are the downsides of Invisalign?
- Changing some habits, such as frequent snacking or sipping of beverages.
- Speaking can be difficult for the first week or so.
- Certain tooth and bite problems may be more difficult or require more time to treat with Invisalign than braces.
- You may experience headaches and jaw pain as your face adjusts to the aligners.
- You may also suffer from dry mouth.
