How much does Invisalign cost?

Invisalign is the most advanced and effective clear aligner system in the world. If you are interested in Invisalign treatment for yourself or your child, you may be concerned about treatment cost. There is no doubt that orthodontic treatment is a relatively large investment especially when more than one family member needs it. In this article we explain the factors that determine the cost of Invisalign treatment and what you should anticipate as an informed consumer.

Orthodontic treatment is not a “one size fits all” procedure, which is why there is no simple answer to this question. The overall Invisalign cost depends on the following factors:
1. Estimated treatment length (some cases can be finished in 6 months while others can take years to be finished)
2. Appliances to be used in addition to Invisalign (palatal expander for example)
4. Type of retainer(s) used

With that said, a survey conducted by the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics in 2012 found that national average of full orthodontic treatment fees was $5,200 while the Illinois average was a little over $5,500. The same survey however found a wide range of fees from $2500 up to $9000 depending on the factors listed above.

Invisalign cost also varies depending on the length of treatment and case complexity but in most cases the fees are either the same or even lower than the fees of traditional braces for a comparable treatment. Contact our orthodontist in Hinsdale to get personalized information.

A common misconception about orthodontic treatment is that it is a purely cosmetic treatment with little or no health benefit. This is unequivocally false! While the benefit of having a beautiful smile should not be underestimated, orthodontic treatment also ensures proper form and function and almost invariably improves the oral and dental health. On the other hand, the lack of orthodontic treatment may result in significant negative consequences, which may be more expensive than braces to fix! So for the financial gurus out there, the return on investment for orthodontic treatment is certainly worth it for the great majority of individuals.

Rather than asking how much braces cost, the question you should ask yourself is how much is your smile or your child’s smile is worth? The average American spends over $1,800 every year on clothing! You wear your smile every single day of your life so why wouldn’t you invest in your smile the same way you invest in your clothes?

Orthodontic treatment lasts for several months or a few years with constant professional care by an orthodontist in addition to clinical and administrative staff. Not to mention the materials, equipment and instruments that are needed. Nonetheless, you as an informed consumer, have every right to ask questions and understand the process before making a decision. Here are some important things to think about when considering your options:

Having choices is a blessing, but when comparing these choices, make sure you’re comparing apples to apples. Treatment fees can vary quite a bit from one orthodontist to another but is what they’re offering the same? Always make sure you ask about what’s included in your treatment fee, the type of braces to be used, will appliances be used? Does the fee include all visits including emergencies? Ask about retainers; are they included? what type of retainers will be provided and to what extent are retainer follow up visits are covered? Ask about the need for additional services (laser surgeries, cosmetic bonding, etc…) after Invisalign and whether they’re included or not. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, ask whether additional orthodontic treatment will be needed in the future or not.
We at Band & Wire Orthodontics are transparent about what’s included in our treatment fees. Our quoted fees include all diagnostic records before, during and after treatment; placement of braces or any appliances as needed; all visits including emergencies if any; retainers and follow up on retainers for two years after finishing treatment.

One of our primary goals at Band & Wire Orthodontics is to make your smile investment as convenient for you as possible. We accept all forms of payments including cash, credit cards, HSA & FSA and offer more than one payment option including in-office zero interest payment plans with down payments as low as $250 and low monthly payments.

Some dental plans cover orthodontic treatment and some do not. The only way to find out is to verify your insurance benefits, a service we provide for you at no cost. Orthodontic benefits can be used toward Invisalign treatment. During our complimentary consultation, we will provide you with a detailed smile investment which includes an explanation of your insurance benefits as well. We accept all PPO plans and file claims on your behalf throughout treatment.

In order to figure out the answer to this question, you would have to calculate how much you will be spending yearly on your dental insurance premiums and compare to what benefits you will be receiving in return. You should also be mindful of the “fine print” such as waiting periods and age limits when it comes to orthodontic coverage. Most plans bought through the individual healthcare marketplace do not provide good orthodontic coverage so most likely they would not be beneficial for this purpose. The benefits of employer provided plans tend to be better and may therefore be helpful; consulting with your HR would be the right thing to do in these situations.

Please come and see us for a complimentary consultation. We will gladly answer any questions you have and help you make the best decision for your or your child. We look forward to meeting you soon!

Dr. Ramzi Daibis is a board-certified orthodontist and the owner of Band & Wire Orthodontics in Clarendon Hills, IL. He specializes exclusively in Invisalign and braces for children and adults. Band & Wire Orthodontics serves Clarendon Hills, Hinsdale, Westmont, Downers Grove, Oak Brook, Willowbrook, Burr Ridge, Western Springs, La Grange, La Grange Park and Chicago.