Is Invisalign Covered by Insurance?

Overview

The blog post “Is Invisalign Covered by Insurance?” on Aloha Orthodontics’ website provides an in-depth look into the workings of Invisalign, its pros and cons, factors affecting treatment time, and most importantly, insurance coverage for Invisalign. It serves as a comprehensive guide for those considering this clear aligner system to correct dental misalignment, providing helpful insights into cost considerations and how to manage them.

What is Invisalign and how does it work?

Invisalign is a clear aligner system that gradually moves your teeth into their desired position. It is an alternative to traditional metal braces. Invisalign treatment consists of a series of clear, removable aligners that are custom-made for your teeth. As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move a little bit closer to their final position.

In the beginning stages of the treatment process, photos and X-rays are taken to create a 3D image of your whole mouth. Once the digital treatment plan is complete, it is transferred directly to Invisalign. Once custom and accurate molds are created and manufactured, they are sent to your orthodontist’s office ready for use. These custom aligners fit comfortably and guide your teeth to where they need to be without the metal components of traditional braces. 

The average treatment time is around 12 months. Your aligners will need to be worn for 20-22 hours a day in order for the treatment to work. You may take them off for eating, brushing your teeth and flossing. After that, the results will be having the dream smile that you’ve always wanted. 

Who is a good candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign is a good option for people who have mild to moderate misalignment of their teeth. This can include conditions like:

• Crowded or Crooked teeth
• Protruding teeth
• Teeth gaps
• Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite

It is also a good choice for people who want to avoid the conspicuousness of traditional metal braces.

An ideal candidate will possess the following traits:

• Does not have dental issues that might require advanced treatment methods
• Will be diligent with wearing Invisalign aligners for 22 hours of the day

What are the pros and cons of Invisalign?

Pros

• Removable trays: you have the ability to eat with no food restrictions
• It’ll look like you’re wearing nothing at all
• More comfortable than braces: Invisalign doesn’t scratch your mouth like braces does
• Provides a clean smile
• Dental hygiene is easier since they are removable. 

Cons

• Cost can sometimes be more than braces
• Fees and treatment time may fluctuate
• Must remember to wear aligners for 20-22 hours a day
• Can stain or discolor
• Easier to break or lose
• Must not drink anything but water while aligners are in.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

As the aligners are replaced every two weeks, they gently and gradually move the teeth into the desired position. The entire treatment process typically takes 9-15 months, depending on the individual case.

What type of factors affect the treatment time?

• The type of occlusion/spacing

Overbites, underbites, crowding or gaps can determine how long you’ll need to wear your clear aligners for. 

• Your age

If you’re in the younger age group, your teeth tend to realign easier. If you’re an adult, your teeth can still be straightened but it may take a bit more time.

• How compliant you are

Wearing the aligners for 20-22 hours a day and removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing teeth, and flossing is a best practice that all Invisalign users should follow. Also, switching trays on schedule is very important. Keep up with scheduled orthodontist appointments too to keep things running smoothly. 

Can Invisalign be covered by insurance?

Invisalign is often covered by insurance just like how braces are covered by insurance. Ask your manager at work, call your insurance company or look through your benefits package for “orthodontic treatment.” If dental care is included in your insurance, they may cover a certain percentage of the treatment procedure (typically 30-50%) or a set amount. 

If they do not cover Invisalign, you may be able to get a discount through Invisalign’s financing program.

Monthly Payment Plan

A monthly payment plan can help you spread the cost of your Invisalign aligners over the length of treatment. Typically, the doctor will ask for a down payment before the treatment starts.

Making these smaller payments throughout the treatment can make it easier to plan your monthly budget.

Many practices offer affordable monthly payment plans. Ask your orthodontist what options they have for you. 

Additional Information

Advancements in Invisalign technology continue to make this treatment even more appealing. For instance, the introduction of Invisalign’s SmartTrack material has improved aligner fit and comfort, making them easier to insert and remove. Additionally, with the advent of AI technology, Invisalign has launched a virtual care platform that enables remote monitoring of treatment progress, reducing physical visits to the orthodontist. Moreover, a recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics suggests that adults seeking orthodontic treatment report improvements in psychosocial outcomes, further emphasizing the benefits of choosing Invisalign.

Conclusion

Invisalign braces are a popular choice for adults and teenagers who want to improve their smile without drawing attention to their teeth.

They can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, which makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene during treatment. In addition, they are less noticeable than traditional metal braces. The entire treatment process typically takes 9-15 months, depending on the individual case.

If you are considering Invisalign treatment, be sure to consult with an experienced orthodontist or dentist to assess your individual case.

Also be sure to check with your insurance provider to see how much they can cover Invisalign treatment. Contact us today with any questions for more information.