Minneapolis, MN – FDA approved in 1998 and on the U.S. market since 1999, Invisalign’s advent has allowed millions of people to straighten their teeth with the fantastic invisible aligners. However, some are still hesitant to get this treatment due to perceived cost prohibition.
“The great news about Invisalign,” says an Invisalign Premier Provider, “is that it costs about as much as traditional metal braces and is equally effective, but appears virtually invisible.”
Factors Affecting Cost
The Invisalign site itself offers a handy cost calculator to give an estimate to those considering the treatment. As with any orthodontic treatment, many factors will affect the price. These include, but are not limited to:
- Provider. Depending on the Invisalign provider’s experience, the cost may be adjusted accordingly. “You get what you pay for,” an ORTHODONTIST reminds patients. “Choosing someone inexperienced with Invisalign may lead to inconsistent or undesirable outcomes, so it’s best to do your homework when finding a provider. If you want a great and successful experience, I’d recommend searching for someone who is a board certified orthodontist when it comes to Invisalign.”
- Location. Just like real estate, orthodontic treatment prices vary by location. In New York City, for example, Invisalign can cost $7000, while in Kirkland, Washington, it only costs about $3000. Nationally, the average cost for Invisalign is about $5000, with a range of $3000-$8000 total.
- Case Complexity. If the teeth are generally straight with just a few causing problems, treatment will likely be faster and cheaper than for someone with massive alignment problems. This topic also includes:
o Length of treatment
o Number of aligners needed
o Follow-up and adjustment appointments - Dental Insurance. Most insurance plans now cover Invisalign the same way they cover braces under orthodontic coverage. It’s best to check one’s individual policy for specifics on the cost.
Price Breakdown of Invisalign: What Does It Include?
Once you choose a qualified Invisalign provider, the next step will be going over the care plan and cost outline. This typically includes:
- A consultation. This is when the orthodontist explains what exactly will be involved in the treatment. A detailed timeline should be provided, as well as an idea of what the mouth will look like at the end of the Invisalign regimen.
o Cost: up to $250, though many providers offer a free consultation - X-rays, photos, head scans, and 3D modeling. In order to get the customized treatment necessary for Invisalign, detailed images and models are taken and created.
o Cost: up to $500, depending on what’s needed - Invisalign Trays and Retainers. Alignment trays usually cost $50-$100 each, so the cost varies with the amount of trays required for full treatment. Retainers can cost up to $250.
o Cost: up to $5000, depending on amount of trays and retainers needed
o Replacements for lost or damaged trays can cost up to $150 each, and retainers up to $250 each. - Office Visits. Throughout the treatment, follow-up visits, check-ups, and perhaps refinements will be necessary.
o Cost: up to $1200, depending on your provider
There’s No Substitute for Quality
When deciding on Invisalign providers, the number one concern –even above cost—is the quality of treatment. An experienced provider will offer consistent results and greatly reduce the likelihood of patients having to return later for adjustments or repairs.
If you’re interested in learning more about experienced care from an Invisalign provider, schedule a free consultation with an ORTHODONTIST today! You can also stop by the Minneapolis/St. Paul-area office or call 651-447-6768.
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