Invisalign – Louisville, KY

Factors that Affect the Cost of Invisalign

There isn’t a set price for Invisalign simply because no two treatments are exactly the same. How much your Invisalign journey will cost will depend on a wide variety of factors, including your oral health, the severity of your orthodontic issue, and your compliance during treatment. That’s why we need to see you for an initial consultation and evaluation in order to give you a personalized estimate. Once you understand how much Invisalign costs for your unique smile, our knowledgeable team can help you navigate the financial aspect of your care. That way, the price isn’t what stands in your way of achieving your smile goals!

Invisalign vs. Smile Direct Club™: Which Costs More?

When comparing the price of Invisalign in Louisville to other clear aligners, it’s important to consider both cost and value. First, let’s talk cost. With DIY options, like Smile Direct Club, patients typically pay around $2,000. Invisalign, on the other hand, can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000. However, before you let that sell you, it’s important to weigh the upfront vs. total cost. While DIY solutions are cheaper, there is often no supervision by a licensed professional, treatment is based around DIY impressions, and there is nowhere to turn if you experience problems, like unwanted movement. In short, the value of Invisalign significantly tips the scales in their favor. Remember, there is no room for error when it comes to your smile!

Does Dental Insurance Cover Invisalign?

In some cases, yes! With that being said, the coverage is usually different than your other benefits, like complimentary checkups and cleanings. First, it is a once-in-a-lifetime benefit, meaning it won’t renew each year. Second, the designated amount will be used to cover a certain percentage of your treatment. If you find navigating your insurance benefits to be difficult at times, don’t worry – our team is here to help! During your initial consultation, we can file a claim, explain your coverage, and help you determine the next best steps.

Options for Making Invisalign Affordable

Uninsured? Luckily, there is another way to make your Invisalign treatment more affordable: dental financing. CareCredit is a trusted third-party financier that has helped numerous patients get the smile-enhancing care they desire at a price they can afford. To accomplish this, they offer little-to-no financing for qualified patients and payment plans that are spread out over the course of several months.

Does Invisalign Hurt?

While all types of orthodontic treatment can cause some level of discomfort (your teeth are moving, after all!), Invisalign in Louisville is one of the most comfortable options thanks to the smooth plastic design of the aligners.

That being said, there is a brief adjustment period when you first begin Invisalign treatment (or when you switch to a new set of trays) during which you may feel slight soreness. This is because the aligners are exerting gentle pressure on your teeth to shift them into their proper positions. In fact, this discomfort is a sign that your treatment is working! While it should fade within a few days, taking over-the-counter pain medication or applying a cold compress as needed to provide relief until you’ve fully adjusted.

Is Invisalign Cheaper Than Braces?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as each patient’s treatment costs will vary. In many cases, Invisalign costs about the same as traditional braces. Of course, multiple variables will influence the final price, such as a patient’s oral health and the degree to which their teeth are misaligned.

For some patients, Invisalign might be more expensive because insurance doesn’t cover it. However, Invisalign patients almost always say that this treatment is worth the higher price tag due to the everyday benefits it provides. Furthermore, some dental insurance plans will cover Invisalign to some extent. Be sure to check with your insurance provider before finalizing any decisions.

What Happens After Invisalign?

Once you’re finished wearing the last pair of aligners in the series, you’ll return to our office to have your cosmetic dentist in Louisville verify that your teeth are in their desired positions. Then, we can walk you through what it will be like to maintain your newly straightened smile.

You’ll start by wearing a retainer. In most cases, this retainer actually resembles the clear aligners you were already used to wearing. Retainers are crucial to the long-term success of Invisalign treatment; they protect your investment by preventing your teeth from reverting to their older positions. Depending on your specific needs, we’ll let you know how often you need to wear your retainer. More often than not, you’ll start by wearing it full-time, eventually being able to only wear it at night.

How Do I Clean My Invisalign?

While the Invisalign company sells their own specialized, highly effective cleaning system, you can also clean them at home using a soft-bristled toothbrush. At least once a day, run the trays under lukewarm or cold water and gently scrub them clean with the brush. Never use hot water, though, as it could cause the plastic to change shape and become uncomfortable or ineffective. You should also rinse off your trays several times a day, ideally after eating.