Dental Insurance Articles
How To Get Dental Insurance To Cover Invisalign Braces
2011-11-01
Invisalign braces are a popular alternative to traditional metal braces, but many people aren't sure whether their current dental insurance policy will cover these teeth-straightening devices and related visits to the orthodontist. Nearly one million patients completed Invisalign dental-alignment procedures with this removable and cosmetically inconspicuous treatment method since its introduction. According to data from Align Technology, the makers of the Invisalign system, approximately one fourth of all patients have received some form of compensation for their dental insurance provider. In order to qualify for coverage, most policyholders need to purchase an orthodontic dental insurance policy. These coverage options can be added to most basic dental insurance policies for an additional fee.
Dental insurance coverage for Invisalign braces depends on the policy and provider. Preventative dental plans typically only cover cleanings, x-rays, fillings and routine dental procedures. Like traditional metal braces, the Invisalign system is typically considered an orthodontic device. Policyholders interested in Invisalign braces should contact their current dental insurance provider and obtain coverage terms for braces in writing. If Invisalign braces aren't covered by a basic dental plan, policyholders can generally modify their dental plans with orthodontic benefits. In most cases, an orthodontic dental insurance policy will pay at least $500 of the total treatment cost. With a quality orthodontic insurance plan, policyholders can often obtain benefits between $1,000 and $2,500 or half of the treatment costs.
The Invisalign system is popular with teens and adults for its invisible look and ability to straighten teeth without the pain of metal braces. Depending on the level of straightening required, clear Invisalign aligners must be worn for 18 months. The average cost of a complete Invisalign treatment is approximately $5,000, although some patients spend as much as $8,000 and some as little as $3,500. The total cost of the Invisalign system is roughly the same as traditional metal braces. Unlike metal braces that are periodically tightened and readjusted, the Invisalign system uses clear plastic aligners that are swapped out every two to four weeks. First, the orthodontist takes dental impressions, x-rays and photographs that are used to create a computer-simulated 3D model. Dental professionals then map out a personalized treatment process with aligners that match each step of the process.
Some dental insurance policies consider Invisalign braces to be a cosmetic procedure. Other providers treat the Invisalign system like traditional braces and offer policyholders comparable benefits. Current policyholders should verify whether their current dental plan covers the Invisalign system. If it doesn't, patients can check into cosmetic dental insurance or orthodontic dental insurance, which are designed to cover braces, Invisalign braces, veneers and other non-essential dental services.