Does Dental Insurance Cover Invisalign?

Not everyone naturally develops that perfectly straight smile that they were hoping for. In fact, approximately 45% of people need orthodontic treatment, thanks to modern dental technology, perfectly aligned teeth aren’t completely out of reach. You don’t even need to spend the duration of your treatment with a mouthful of metal brackets and wires either. If you’re ready to finally do something about your crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth, then you are probably eager to learn how your dental insurance benefits will play a role, if at all. Continue reading to learn how your plan may be able to help you save on Invisalign clear aligners.

What Does Dental Insurance Usually Cover?

The most common dental insurance plans follow a 100-80-50 coverage structure. Typically, this means that they will cover the following dental treatments and procedures:

• 100% of Preventive Care: This includes regular cleanings, checkups, routine X-rays, and more.
• 80% of Basic Procedures: Basic procedures are fillings, gum disease treatment, and other non-invasive treatments.
• 50% of Major Procedures: Things like root canals, dental implants, and dental crowns often fit into this category.

Will Dental Insurance Cover Invisalign?

If you have dental insurance, there is a chance that your treatment will be covered. A lot of the time, insurance will cover Invisalign clear aligners similarly to how they cover traditional metal braces. If this is the case for you, your policy will probably end up paying either a set percentage of the cost, or it will cover up to a specific dollar amount. Many insurance plans have an allowance set to the side for orthodontics, especially for children, but they will still have a cumulative cap on the amount that they agree to pay for this type of treatment. Once the cap amount is reached, treatment will no longer be covered.

To find out for sure whether or not you can expect coverage on your Invisalign treatment, you should contact your insurance provider. If you need help navigating your dental insurance benefits, talk to your dental team. They will be able to steer you in the right direction.

What If Invisalign Isn’t Covered by Dental Insurance?

If your insurance provider doesn’t cover Invisalign, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you are completely left on your own. Some dentists have additional financial options that can help to make your treatment as affordable and achievable as possible. For instance, some dentists work with third-party financing companies that can split the cost of your treatment into manageable monthly installments with little to no interest. You can ask about your different options during your initial consultation.

If you’re eager to achieve an aligned smile, schedule a consultation with your dentist. This way, you can discuss your predicted treatment plan and financial options. You’ll have a straighter smile in no time!

About the Author

Dr. Terry F. Rakowsky is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for nearly 35 years. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and is committed to continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association and Pennsylvania Dental Association. For more information on Invisalign or to schedule a consultation at his office in Doylestown, visit his website or call (215) 348-2224.