Choosing to undergo orthodontic treatment is a big step in creating a confident smile. But like any medical treatment (including cosmetic dentistry procedures), the costs can add up, and it’s one of the biggest concerns for most patients and parents. When considering Invisalign clear aligners, metal braces, or a cosmetic dental procedure, it’s essential to understand the cost of each treatment option and the best course for affording necessary teeth straightening!

Whether your treatment plan includes traditional braces or Invisalign, San Diego patients deserve straight teeth without worrying about the price tag on their bright smiles. Luckily, Phillips Family Orthodontics is here so you can better understand costs and coverage for your Invisalign services, including whether your insurance company will be on board with more than just standard dental problems.

San Diego Invisalign Treatment for Your Smile

First off, what is Invisalign? It helps align your teeth without the metal brackets and wires used in traditional braces. Instead, Invisalign teeth straightening uses a series of clear, removable aligners that are custom-made for your teeth. Sounds cool, right?

The virtually invisible clear aligners from Invisalign treat bad bites and crooked teeth, and they do it just as fast as traditional metal braces! Children, teens, and adult patients can straighten their teeth while caring for other dental concerns that come with orthodontic issues: tooth decay, gum disease, TMJ disorder, and more!

Here are just a few of the things that we love about Invisalign trays and other aligner trays:

• Straightening teeth is done totally incognito, unlike traditional orthodontics. Aligners are clear plastic that fits right over the patient’s teeth!
• Patients can say goodbye to food restrictions! This is the ideal treatment for someone who loves popcorn, candy, crispy fruits, crunchy vegetables, and other snacks that will break metal braces.
• Removable trays mean flexibility with more than food. Generally speaking, you’ll be able to achieve your desired results without impacting your schedule. They require fewer check-ups with the dentist and orthodontist, and you can pop them in and out as needed for meals.
• When worn consistently (20 to 22 hours a day!), your upper and lower teeth should stay right on track for a short, simple treatment time. They are as fast as braces (sometimes even faster) when patients wear them around the clock.

 

Dental Insurance & Orthodontic Treatment

Let’s dive into the main question: Will insurance cover my Invisalign cost in San Diego? The answer is more complex than a simple yes or no because it largely depends on your specific insurance plan. We wish that all plans helped cover the cost of all treatment options, but the truth is that getting a new smile is something that only some dental plans prioritize.

Some plans do provide coverage, fortunately, especially for younger smiles. However, the extent of the coverage varies widely from plan to plan. Some plans may cover a percentage of the total cost, while others may offer a fixed dollar amount. Many patients will find that they’ll have to lower costs in other ways (don’t worry, we’ll go over that later).

Remember that insurance policies often have a lifetime cap on orthodontic benefits. This means you won’t receive more coverage once you’ve reached this limit, even if you’re still in treatment. So, it’s crucial to check your policy’s fine print or call your provider to understand what’s covered with your San Diego Invisalign treatment plan.

What Impacts My Coverage for San Diego Invisalign & Braces

When it comes to insurance coverage for teeth-related work (like Invisalign, braces, and other dental care), a few key factors can impact how much your plan will contribute toward the treatment cost of your aligners or braces.

Coverage Amount

Just like with traditional braces, insurance typically won’t cover the entire cost of Invisalign aligners. The exact amount they’ll cover can vary widely, but your insurer will generally pay a certain percentage of the cost or a fixed dollar amount. This means you’ll need to be prepared for some out-of-pocket expenses. And keep in mind – not everyone includes traditional braces or aligners in their coverage. Some plans only cover general dentistry.

Network Restrictions

Your coverage might differ depending on whether your chosen orthodontist or dentist is in-network. Check with your insurance company and orthodontist to ensure you maximize your benefits.

Age Caps

Many insurance plans offer coverage for Invisalign aligners needed for minors and young adults up to the age of 19. However, coverage for adult braces or Invisalign aligners is rare. If you’re an adult considering Invisalign, review your policy before starting Invisalign treatment.

Waiting Periods

If you’ve recently signed up for a new dental plan, there might be a waiting period before your benefits help pay for a healthy smile. This period can range anywhere from 6 months to a year.

While many insurance providers offer some coverage for Invisalign, the extent of these benefits can vary greatly. Please always take the time to understand the specifics of your policy so you can make the most of your coverage and reduce your out-of-pocket Invisalign costs.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)

If you have an FSA or HSA, you’re in luck! These accounts often allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars for healthcare expenses, including Invisalign. If you plan wisely, you could save quite a bit on your Invisalign treatment.

Payment Plans that Make Starting Invisalign Affordable

Orthodontists believe everyone deserves healthy teeth, meaning offices usually have low-interest solutions to achieve a perfect smile. Flexible, in-office payment plans make Invisalign more affordable, and you can also check out financing through other reputable companies.

Making Straighter Teeth Affordable at PFO

At Phillips Family Orthodontics, we’ll help create a plan that fits your budget, ensuring you get a straighter smile without breaking the bank. We also work with most PPO insurance, and we’ll work side-by-side with you to maximize your benefits. And, of course, every beautiful smile starts with a free consultation with Dr. Phillips in Encinitas or Mira Mesa!

While insurance can often help cover some of your Invisalign costs, the specifics depend on your plan. You can always check with your insurance provider to understand your benefits. And remember, at Phillips Family Orthodontics, we’re always here to help you navigate the financial aspects of your orthodontic treatment. So, don’t let cost concerns keep you from the smile you’ve always wanted. Reach out to us today, and let’s start your journey to a straighter, more confident smile!

Keep smiling, San Diego!