I Just Got Lumineers, Now What?
Congratulations on your new, fabulous Lumineers smile! However, once the procedure is done, many patients find themselves asking what they need to do next. This guide looks to answer all...
When comparing Invisalign to traditional braces, it’s easy to see why Invisalign is so appealing. Invisalign allows patients of all ages to discreetly achieve a straighter, healthier smile without enduring adult braces. While you may be sure of the benefits, knowing if you can afford Invisalign is the more important question to ask yourself.
Many factors will play into the cost of your Invisalign treatment, and there are a few things you can generally determine to help you know what to expect before you meet with a provider to discuss your treatment options.
Calculate the Cost of Invisalign Vs. Traditional Braces
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. Suppose you’re interested in Invisalign for its patient-oriented treatment advantages (and who isn’t?). In that case, you must 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 wear clear aligners that don’t interfere with your smile or decrease your confidence while straightening your teeth.
Check For Coverage With Your 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.
Set Up a Payment Plan
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 up to $3,500 of your treatment cost. Our staff will help you 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 want information on our payment plan options, we can discuss this at your consultation appointment.
Utilizing an FSA or HSA Account
Before you begin your Invisalign treatment, talk to 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 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 particular savings account designed for people with a high-deductible health insurance plan. The money you put into the account can cover certain medical, dental, and orthodontic costs. To open an HSA, you must meet IRS eligibility requirements.
The Cost of Invisalign Treatments Can Vary
Currently, Invisalign treatments cost roughly $3000 – $5000 in the United States. Some of these factors determine your specific cost:
- The complexity of your treatment plan – Your malocclusion is unique. Invisalign is the most advanced transparent 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. If you have a more complex case, you may need more aligners, and a longer treatment time will mean a higher price tag.
- Where you live – Different cities have different treatment costs 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 better understand your benefits and whether your provider will cover any orthodontic treatment.
A Straighter, Healthier Smile Is Always Worth the Cost
It can be easy to get hung up on the initial sticker shock of the price of orthodontic treatment. However, don’t overlook the more considerable impact of Invisalign treatment and all the benefits of a straighter, healthier smile.
Don’t let cost hold you back from straightening your teeth and restoring your confidence in your smile. Schedule your commitment-free Invisalign consultation with Hoffman Dental Care and take the first step in gathering all of the information you need to make the right choice for your smile.
