Does Dental Insurance Cover Invisalign?

If you are considering Invisalign treatment to straighten your teeth, you may be wondering if this type of orthodontic care is covered by dental insurance. While it is possible for dental insurance to cover the cost of Invisalign, it depends on your specific insurance plan and the terms of coverage.

Understanding Invisalign Treatment

Invisalign treatment involves the use of clear aligners that are custom-fit to your teeth to gradually shift them into the desired position. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating and cleaning your teeth. This makes them a great option for adults and teens who want to straighten their teeth without the metal brackets and wires associated with traditional braces.

How Invisalign Works

During your initial consultation, your dentist or orthodontist will evaluate your teeth and determine if Invisalign is the right treatment option for you. They will take digital impressions of your teeth, which are sent to a lab where your custom aligners are made. You will wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, gradually moving your teeth into the correct position.

How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?

The length of your Invisalign treatment will depend on the complexity of your case, the number of aligners required, and how well you follow your dentist’s instructions. In general, treatment can take anywhere from six months to two years.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Invisalign?

Whether your dental insurance covers Invisalign treatment will depend on your specific plan and the terms of your coverage. Some dental insurance plans may not cover orthodontic care at all, while others may cover a portion of the cost up to a certain limit.

What to Look for in Your Dental Insurance Plan

If you are interested in Invisalign treatment and have dental insurance, it’s important to review your policy to determine what is covered. Here are some key things to look for:

Coverage Item
What to Look For
Orthodontic Coverage
Check to see if your plan covers orthodontic care, and if so, what percentage of the cost is covered.
Coverage Limitations
Find out if there are any restrictions or limitations on the type of orthodontic care that is covered, such as age limits or specific treatment requirements.
Out-of-Pocket Costs
Determine what your out-of-pocket costs will be, including deductibles, copays, and any other fees associated with treatment.
Pre-Authorization Requirements
Check to see if pre-authorization is required for orthodontic treatment, and if so, what the process entails.

What if My Dental Insurance Does Not Cover Invisalign?

If your dental insurance does not cover Invisalign treatment, there are still options available. Many dentists and orthodontists offer payment plans and financing options to help make the cost of treatment more affordable. Additionally, you may be able to use a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) to pay for Invisalign treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does Invisalign Cost?

The cost of Invisalign treatment will vary depending on your individual needs and the complexity of your case. On average, Invisalign treatment costs between $3,000 and $7,000.

Can Invisalign Fix Overbites?

Yes, Invisalign can be used to correct overbites, underbites, and other types of dental misalignments. Your dentist or orthodontist will evaluate your specific needs and create a treatment plan tailored to your individual case.

How Often Do I Need to Wear My Invisalign Aligners?

To get the best results from your Invisalign treatment, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. You should only remove them for eating, drinking, and cleaning your teeth.

How Often Do I Need to Change My Invisalign Aligners?

You will need to change your Invisalign aligners every two weeks, following the schedule provided by your dentist or orthodontist.

Do I Need to Wear Retainers After Invisalign Treatment?

Yes, it’s important to wear retainers after completing your Invisalign treatment to maintain your results. Your dentist or orthodontist will provide instructions on how often to wear your retainers and for how long.

Conclusion

Invisalign treatment can be a great option for adults and teens who want to straighten their teeth without traditional braces. If you have dental insurance, it’s important to review your policy to determine if Invisalign treatment is covered and what your out-of-pocket costs will be. If your insurance does not cover Invisalign, there are still options available to help make the cost of treatment more affordable.