One of the most common issues adults have to deal with is crooked teeth. In fact, nine out of 10 people have a smile they’re not proud of.
But not everyone cares to wear braces or retainers. For some people, they just aren’t worth the hassle. The good news is that there are more comfortable options for straightening your teeth.
Orthodontists recommend Invisalign for those who want the benefits of straight teeth without a mouth full of metal. But how much does Invisalign cost? Read this post and you’ll find the answer.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost Without Dental Insurance?
On average, Invisalign prices are $3,000 to $5,000. This estimate includes the cost of the aligners and some related expenses, such as X-rays and dental impressions.
However, the price can vary widely depending on what type of correction you need, which orthodontist you visit, where you live, and more.
That said, there are some ways to reduce the cost of beautiful teeth if you don’t have dental insurance:
Use an FSA
A flexible spending account (FSA) is a health care benefit that allows you to pay for medical expenses that aren’t covered by insurance with tax-free dollars. FSA plans can save you around $2,500 on your Invisalign fees.
Financing Through Your Orthodontist’s Office
Many orthodontists offer payment plans and in-house financing. If that isn’t an option, ask if they’ll work with a third-party lender to get you a loan with a low-interest rate.
Get Treatment at a Dental School
Some dental schools provide Invisalign at a lower price than private dentists. For example, the University of Texas offers this service to locals. Likewise, most dental schools require that you be a resident of the state to get an appointment.
Check with your local college or university to see whether they provide the treatment and how much it costs.
The Price of Invisalign With Dental Insurance
Some dental insurance plans cover up to 50 percent or all of the cost of Invisalign treatments, just as they might for traditional braces. However, coverage is rare for adults; most plans only cover children under 18. You’ll need to contact your dental insurance carrier or read your plan documents to see what’s covered and what’s not.
Unfortunately, many health insurance companies consider Invisalign services cosmetic rather than medical, so they don’t cover it. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t despair. You may be able to get your employer to pay for it.
Consider reviewing the benefits of Invisalign and how it can help you achieve healthy teeth and gums before bringing up the idea of coverage to your employer. They’re more likely to pay the bill if you can prove that Invisalign will enhance your health.
Do Your Research Before Getting an Estimate
The answer to the question, “How much does Invisalign cost?” may have surprised you. But $5,000 is a small price to pay for the lifetime of improved health and confidence that comes with straight teeth.
If you are seriously considering getting Invisalign, check out our other posts we’ve made on the topic to help make your final decision.