If you’re like most adults, you’re not eager to relive your teenage years. Unfortunately, for those fitted with traditional metal braces, the experience can be somewhat like being back in high school with hormones raging, a pimple or two that demands to be seen; and worse, it’s yearbook picture day. Invisalign clear aligners allows patients to bypass these unfavorable flashbacks by providing a discreet way of straightening teeth. Before moving forward with this form of orthodontic care, though, how does Invisalign cost compare to metal braces, and are they worth it? To get the information you’re looking for, continue reading.
What is Invisalign?
Let’s start the journey by establishing what Invisalign orthodontic treatment entails. It involves the usage of BPA-free clear, plastic aligners that are custom-designed by your dentist and fabricated by a trusted Invisalign-certified lab. With this revolutionary new way of straightening teeth, patients don’t have to be fitted with glaring metal pieces that tend to draw unwelcomed attention and cause discomfort.
Instead, the latest in dental technology is used to create a 3-dimensional digital smile plan that is sent to the lab. Once the aligners return, patients are able to retrieve the entire series. Each set is worn for two-week increments and then exchanged for the next progression in the series, the same simple plan to be followed throughout the treatment process. That means no four-week visits to the dentist for uncomfortable adjustments.
The Advantages of Choosing Invisalign
Here are some of the advantages of choosing Invisalign for fixing your teeth:
- A Discreet Process – Because the aligners are clear, you won’t have to worry about your teeth screaming to the world, “Look at me!”
- Better Oral Hygiene – Since Invisalign aligners are removable, you can brush and floss your teeth like you normally would.
- Lifestyle Maintenance – While patients who wear metal braces have to give up certain foods, you can maintain your usual diet with Invisalign treatment.
- Shorter Treatment Time – Typically, the treatment time is shorter with Invisalign aligners, and in some cases, it can be as short as 12 months.
These perks make the Invisalign process hard to overlook as a worthwhile investment.
How Much Does Invisalign Treatment Cost?
The Invisalign process is highly customized, so it’s impossible to get an accurate price quote without visiting your dentist for a consultation. However, there are some basic averages that will give you an idea of what your investment will be.
One of the biggest misconceptions about Invisalign is that it’s an expensive procedure in comparison to traditional metal braces. The reality, though, is that they are actually comparable. In general, Invisalign treatment can cost from $5,000 to $10,000. For patients with dental insurance, up to $3,500 of the cost can usually be covered.
An important point to keep in mind, though, is that the greatest determinant of the final cost is the patient’s adherence to the treatment plan. That means wearing and caring for the Invisalign aligners as instructed by his or her dentist, as this will prevent the need for extra aligners and a longer treatment process.
To completely remove any guessing and speculation, simply reach out to your local dentist to request a consultation. While you’re there, the current condition of your teeth will be evaluated, and a plan of action will be developed that’s just right for you. A new smile and heightened confidence await you!