Invisalign Cost and Other Questions Answered
How does Invisalign work and how much does it cost? People ask many questions about these clear braces.
Invisalign, which straightens teeth with clear aligners rather than metal braces, continues to increase in popularity. Though it provides many benefits over braces, aligners require a big commitment, so you'll want to know exactly what you're getting into before making a decision.
Here’s a list of the most common questions we hear from patients about Invisalign treatment:
How is Invisalign different from braces?
While braces straighten teeth with metal wires and brackets, Invisalign treatment involves translucent, custom-fitted trays that fit over the teeth. The aligners generally feel more comfortable because they do not irritate teeth and gums like braces do.
Another benefit over braces is that aligners can be taken out before meals, so you don't have to worry about food getting stuck in them — and you can still eat your favorite foods!
Perhaps the best benefit of aligners is cosmetic. No one will ever know that you are straightening your teeth.
How does Invisalign work?
Like braces, Invisalign gently moves your teeth into the desired position over time. It can correct mild and severe issues, such as underbite, overbite, crowding, gaps, malocclusion and crooked or protruding teeth.
Do aligners work for all age groups?
The manufacturer originally designed these aligners for fully-grown adults. However, the company now offers Invisalign Teen for younger patients, so people of all ages can benefit from aligners.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Length of treatment varies for each patient, but the average time with an aligner — if worn correctly — is about a year. Some dentists offer Propel Orthodontics, which can speed the straightening process and cut treatment time in half.
Propel Orthodontics is a new technique that's used in combination with aligners to straighten teeth faster than what was once thought possible. The treatment takes about 30 minutes and involves creating small perforations in the gum line, which triggers a biological response that speeds up the rate of tooth movement.
How much does Invisalign cost?
Treatment costs range from $3,500 to $8,000, not accounting for insurance plans, which could contribute up to $2,500, according to the Invisalign website.
Is Invisalign expensive?
Invisalign usually costs about the same as braces. Some insurance plans cover part of the cost.
Some cosmetic dentists or orthodontists offer payment and financing plans to make Invisalign affordable for more patients.
Do I have to take my aligner out when I eat?
Eating while wearing your aligner can damage the mold, which will impair the straightening process. Always remove aligners before eating anything.
How do I clean my Invisalign aligner?
Invisalign makes a cleaning solution, which your dentist or orthodontist likely sells in the office. It is the most surefire way to keep your aligner and your teeth in mint condition. You can also clean your aligner with a wet toothbrush, but don't use toothpaste and brush lightly to avoid abrasions.
Read the Angie's List Guide to Dental Care for more information.
Will other people really not notice my aligner?
Aligners are practically invisible because they are constructed from fitted, clear plastic. Unlike braces, aligners are designed specifically to be discreet.
There's a good chance you know someone who wears an aligner, but you just haven't noticed.
Will an aligner impair my speech?
During the first few days of treatment, you may find yourself talking with a slight lisp as your mouth adjusts to the aligner. You should fully adjust and sound the same as you did before treatment within a week.
Will I have to wear a retainer after Invisalign treatment?
Your teeth are always shifting and moving, so to protect your investment, we recommend you purchase a retainer at the end of your Invisalign treatment. The retainer is made from a strong material that helps to hold your teeth in the final position. Retainers are custom made, giving you a comfortable fit.
Do I really need straight teeth?
Misaligned teeth provide places for bacteria to hide and grow, so straightening your teeth is a long-term investment in your oral health. In this regard, an aligner can save you pain, money and even teeth down the road.
Are you considering Invisalign rather than braces for teeth straightening? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
This article originally appeared on the Ginger Price DDS blog.
About this Experts Contributor: Ginger Price DDS is a cosmetic dentist in Phoenix, Arizona. She has helped clients improve their dental health since 1984. She is an Elite Invisalign Provider, and she is consistently featured in newspapers, magazines, radio and television segments. Follow this expert on Facebook, Twitter and Google Plus.
As of Nov. 3, 2015, this service provider was highly rated on Angie's List. Ratings are subject to change based on consumer feedback, so check Angie's List for the most up-to-date reviews. The views expressed by this author do not necessarily reflect those of Angie's List.