Does Insurance Cover Invisalign? Invisalign has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional metal braces for adults and teens who want to straighten their teeth. But the clear aligners come at a cost – typically between $3,000 and $8,000 for a complete treatment. This leads many to wonder: does insurance cover Invisalign?
Most dental insurance plans will provide some coverage for Invisalign, just as they would with conventional braces. But the amount they’ll pay can vary significantly based on your specific policy. On average, insurance covers about 50% of the total Invisalign cost, but some plans may cover as little as 20% while others cover up to 80%.
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Factors That Affect Invisalign Insurance Coverage
There are several key factors that impact how much your insurance will pay for Invisalign treatment:
- Your specific dental insurance plan – PPO and POS plans typically offer the best coverage. HMO and discount dental plans often cover less.
- Your annual maximum benefit – Most dental insurance caps yearly benefits at $1,000-$1,500. Invisalign costs can quickly eat this up.
- Orthodontic coverage – Some dental plans put braces and Invisalign treatment under a separate lifetime orthodontic benefit (usually $1,000-$2,000).
- Age limits – Some insurers only cover braces for those under age 18. Invisalign for adults may not be covered.
- Waiting periods – You may need to be with the dental plan for up to 12 months before orthodontic coverage kicks in.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Invisalign Insurance Benefits
To get maximum insurance coverage for Invisalign, consider the following:
- Shop for the best dental plan. Compare several plan options including benefits for major services.
- Get pre-approval. Have your dentist submit Invisalign to your insurance for pre-treatment cost estimation.
- Review claim limits. Understand annual maximums, waiting periods, frequencies, and age limits.
- Consider an FSA or HSA. Funds from these accounts can help pay Invisalign costs insurance doesn’t cover.
- Ask about discounts. Many orthodontists offer payment plans or discounted rates for Invisalign patients with insurance.
Should I Wait Until I Have Orthodontic Insurance Coverage?
If possible, it can make sense to wait to start Invisalign treatment until after your dental insurance policy’s waiting period ends and orthodontic coverage kicks in.
However, don’t put off needed treatment indefinitely if it will take too long to become eligible for maximum insurance benefits. You can still get some coverage in the meantime, and payment plans or dental financing can help bridge the gap.
In conclusion, making sure you understand your dental insurance options, limits, and waiting periods can go a long way toward covering the costs of Invisalign. With a good policy and proper planning, you can get high-quality orthodontic treatment that straightens your smile for less.
Does insurance take care of Invisalign?
Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for Invisalign treatment in the same way as they do for braces. Your insurance may pay for a certain percentage of your Invisalign treatment cost, or it may cover a specific dollar amount. It is important to note that there is usually a lifetime cap on the amount insurance will pay for orthodontic treatment.
How do you get Invisalign when you can’t afford it?
Invisalign treatment can be made more affordable by many orthodontists through payment plans. You should ask your orthodontist if they offer any such plans, as many of them are interest-free. If you have the option to pay for the treatment in monthly installments, it will help you budget for it better.
Is Invisalign very expensive?
Clear aligners (Invisalign) cost $1,800 to $10,000 on average in the US, similar to conventional braces.
