Invisalign® appeals to many people because the clear braces straighten your teeth without people noticing that you are wearing them. And Invisalign works faster than traditional braces. Although they cost more, the results can be worth it. But will your insurance cover Invisalign?
Which Insurance Covers Invisalign?
Most insurance plans that offer orthodontic (braces) benefits include some coverage for Invisalign. Insurance plans pay a percentage of the cost for Invisalign but will not cover all the costs. Most plans have a lifetime orthodontic maximum, and you are responsible for paying for treatment that exceeds that amount. Contact your dental and medical insurance providers and ask about plan benefits for braces. And ask your Invisalign dentist for a pre-treatment estimate to determine your out-of-pocket costs.
How Much Will Insurance Cover for Invisalign?
The amount an insurance plan covers for Invisalign depends on plan provisions. Most dental insurance plans have a lifetime maximum of $1,000 to $3,000 for Invisalign and other braces. Some dental plans have a fixed percentage of how much they will pay toward your orthodontic care during a plan year. In other words, you may not be able to use the total lifetime maximum for orthodontic treatment during the plan year when you first get Invisalign. After your insurance plan pays the lifetime maximum, it will no longer provide benefits for braces, and you are responsible for the rest.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
Depending on the length and complexity of your case, Invisalign can cost $3,000 to $8,000. Each patient’s case is unique, so after a thorough examination and taking a 3-D model of your teeth and oral anatomy, an Invisalign dentist can develop a treatment plan and estimate the cost.
How Can You Pay for Invisalign?
You can pay for Invisalign by taking advantage of dental or medical insurance coverage. Other ways to pay for Invisalign include:
Flexible Savings Account
A flexible savings account (FSA) is an employer-sponsored savings account that lets you set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for qualifying medical expenses.
FSA facts:
- In most cases, you can use the savings to pay for out-of-pocket costs for Invisalign.
- FSA funds expire at the end of the year.
- Speak with your employer for details.
Health Care Savings Account
An individual—not an employer—owns a health care savings account (HSA). You can use the savings to help pay for Invisalign treatment in most cases.
HSA facts:
- You may be eligible for an HSA if you have a high-deductible health plan.
- You can keep the HSA account if you change employers.
- The funds roll over each year.
Visit Healthcare.gov for HSA details.
Your Invisalign Dentist’s Payment Options
Your Invisalign dentist’s payment options may include:
- Allowing you to pay for Invisalign with cash, check, or credit cards
- In-house payment plans or financing through health care credit card companies or other financial institutions
- Payment plans or financing, including low- or no-interest plans for applicants who qualify
Please schedule a consultation with an experienced Invisalign dentist to discuss how they can make treatment affordable for you.
Dr. Brian LeSage, a Beverly Hills accredited Fellow of cosmetic dentistry, sponsors this post.