The perfect smile. It’s something everyone lusts after, but to get it, some of us need an extra helping hand. Enter Invisalign: the undetectable alternative to braces.
Since hitting the market in 1997, Invisalign has become a household name. Over 9 million smiles have been transformed using their clear aligners, and as adult braces become increasingly popular, that number is set to rise.
So whether you want to fix an overbite, reduce crowding, or just have generally straighter teeth, there’s an Invisalign solution that can makeover your smile. This post answers common questions, such as “how much does Invisalign cost” and “why should I choose Invisalign” so that you’re clued up ahead of your consultation.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a type of braces that uses custom-made clear aligners to move the position of your teeth. The aligners are made of a unique blend of plastic which is strong enough to move your teeth but comfortable enough for daily wear.
If you choose Invisalign, you’ll be sent a series of aligner trays that need to be worn in sequence. You change aligners roughly every one or two weeks so that your teeth can be shifted into place. Just make sure you wear them for at least 20 hours a day to see the best results!
Why Choose Invisalign Over Traditional Braces?
Invisalign boasts many benefits over traditional and linear braces (which sit behind the teeth). Here is the main reason clients choose Invisalign:
Invisalign is Undectable
The aligners are undetectable so your braces won’t be obvious to your colleagues and friends. For young people in particular, the thought of getting braces can be nerve-wracking. Invisalign offers a tried and tested method of tooth correction that’s incredibly subtle, so there’s no need to feel self-conscious about your braces.
Easy to Remove
One of the most frustrating things about permanent braces is the daily struggle to clean your teeth or keep your braces clean whilst eating. Forget sneaking off to the bathroom during meals out; with Invisalign, you can remove your aligners to eat and then pop them back in afterward!
Fixes Complex Issues
Invisalign aligners fix more than uneven teeth. You can use them to fix issues like over and underbites and crowding. In particular, Invisalign overbite treatment is effective and may even be faster than using traditional braces.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
The amount you pay for Invisalign treatment varies based on your oral health and where you’re based. Typical factors that affect the cost of Invisalign are:
- How much work needs to be done and how many aligners are needed to achieve your final result
- Your location
- Your dentist’s charges and their experience level
- Whether your health insurance will contribute to your treatment
Invisalign’s website advertises that their treatment ranges from $3,000 to $7,000. That can seem like a big difference, but remember that they treat a whole host of conditions. No two problems are the same!
According to the Consumer Guide for Dentistry, the national average for Invisalign is $3,000–$5,000. This isn’t dissimilar to traditional braces, which cost between $2,000–$6,000 on average.
As with all medical and dental treatment, the final cost you pay will depend on your situation. Whether you choose traditional braces or aligners, extremely crooked teeth or heavy overbites will take more time to move into position than mildly, uneven teeth. So keep this in mind.
Aftercare Costs
When comparing Invisalign prices, don’t forget to include aftercare. Like traditional braces, most clients will need to wear a retainer to keep their pearly whites in tip-top condition. Retainers cost between $100 to $500 but the good news is they don’t need to be replaced like your aligners!
The majority of adults and children who get braces won’t need to repeat their treatment if they use their retainer correctly. So to save yourself and your finances in the future, don’t skip this step!
Payment Support
If you need braces but are worried about the price of Invisalign, there are several options available to you that can help make the payments more manageable:
Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program
If you’re considering Invisalign for your child or teen, they may qualify for financial aid to support the cost of their treatment. Usually, if your child’s need for orthodontic treatment hinders their overall health or development, the work can be completely or partially covered.
Ask your dentist for more information on the funding available in your state.
Payment Plans
It’s completely understandable if you can’t pay the cost of your entire treatment upfront. That’s why most dental practices offer structured monthly payment plans to help spread out your bill.
When you’re discussing your treatment options with your dentist, don’t forget to ask for the details of any payment plans their office offers. If they don’t, consider looking at private payment plans. Just watch out for hidden interest fees to make sure you don’t pay more in the long run.
Dental Schools
If the overall cost of Invisalign treatment is out of your budget, being treated by a dental student can be a great way to access all the benefits, without facing the costs.
Research dental schools in your area to see if any offer their services at a discount. You’ll still be in safe hands (a board-certified dentist is required to monitor all treatments) but you will need to be prepared for your treatment to take slightly longer.
Boost Your Smile and Your Confidence With Invisalign
When you’re worrying about your smile, you’re not yourself. Boost your confidence by taking the plunge, and booking your first Invisalign consultation! We promise you won’t look back.
If this post has helped you answer questions like “how much does Invisalign cost” and “why choose Invisalign,” take a look at the rest of our blog for more health tips and advice!
