Invisalign Cost

How Much Does Invisalign Cost?

	Simple Cases: $2,000 or less
	Typical: $3,000-$8,000

Traditional braces use a metal, ceramic or plastic bracket attached to each tooth, with a wire running between the brackets to gradually move crooked teeth into the desired positions. Invisalign is a patented alternative to normal braces that uses custom-made clear plastic aligner trays worn over the teeth. The trays are less noticeable than traditional braces.

Typical costs:

• CostHelper readers report overall prices of $3,300-$6,200, not including insurance contributions ranging from zero to $2,500. The Invisalign Company estimates typical treatment costs[1] at $3,500-$8,000, with a national average of about $5,000, although the company says simple cases can cost $2,000 or less.
• Dental insurance typically treats the Invisalign tray system the same as traditional braces; most plans cover 50% up to a specific maximum amount (typically $1,000-$2,000 if the patient is 18 years or younger), and only once per patient.

What should be included:

• The orthodontist (a dentist specializing in straightening teeth) will take x-rays, pictures and impressions of the teeth. These images and impressions are used to create a series of custom-fit clear plastic aligner trays, designed to gradually move the teeth into position. The patient typically switches to a new tray about every two weeks, and visits the orthodontist about every six weeks, to check the progress of the adjustments. According to Invisalign[2] , treatment typically takes about a year for adults, and about the same amount of time as traditional braces (18-30 months) for teens.
• For best results, the aligner tray should be worn 20-22 hours a day (including when the person is sleeping). The aligner tray is easily removable, and should be taken out to eat, and to brush and floss the teeth. Because the trays are removed for eating, there are no prohibited foods, as there are with traditional braces.
• The aligner trays cover both the front and back of the teeth, and may initially cause a slight lisp or speech impediment; most consumers report that their speech returns to normal within one to two weeks. This problem may return briefly when the patient switches to the next aligner tray. Invisalign users may also experience bouts of excess saliva. An Invisalign user shares her experiences in three video blogs[3] , including the button attachment process.
• The Invisalign tray system is generally not used to correct severe bite problems. Some patients may still need traditional braces for several months (if needed, this should be included in the individual treatment plan and quoted price).

• Because the aligner trays are taken out to eat, it's not unusual to lose them. The first replacement set is typically free, but additional replacements generally cost about $100 per tray, or $200 for a set. However, whether the first replacement set is free, the number of free replacement sets provided and the cost of replacements will vary depending on the orthodontist.

• Some dental schools[4] include Invisalign certification as part of their curriculum; dental schools typically have clinics offering reduced rates for services by supervised students or faculty. Call to check whether Invisalign is available at a specific school clinic.

• Invisalign provides a tool to search for local orthodontists offering the Invisalign system[5] ; or search for local members of the American Association of Orthodontists[6] .
• Many orthodontists offer interest-free payment plans, with a down payment of 10%-33% of the total cost plus monthly payments spread out over the treatment period (12-24 months).
• Prices vary between orthodontists, so get several estimates; most will provide a free consultation. Ask about the orthodontist's experience with Invisalign and other teeth straightening systems, and get details about the individualized treatment plan -- how long the aligner trays will be needed, how often they will be changed, the frequency of check-ups, and if "button" tooth attachments, a brief period of traditional braces or other procedures will be needed.