We know that one of the first things many people want to know about orthodontic treatment is how much it’s going to cost. A lot of people get hesitant to ask about prices because they think it’s going to be out of their budget, which is a pretty fair concern considering getting braces is a big decision for a lot of families. At Forest Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry we think it’s super important to be upfront about all parts of the treatment, including the cost, so you can make an informed choice about your dental health.
The price of clear aligners in Lake Forest is dependent on a few key things that we look at when you come in for a first visit. The final cost is mostly based on just how complicated your case is, if you’ve just got a little bit of spacing issues or a bit of crowding going on then you’re probably going to need fewer aligners and shorter treatment sessions, which is a pretty major cost saver. If you’ve got a more complicated set of problems that need a lot of tooth movement or bite correction then you’re going to need more aligners and longer treatment times. Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth discreetly and comfortably. Invisalign is a popular choice for patients looking for an effective and nearly invisible orthodontic solution.
The length of your treatment has a pretty direct impact on how much it’s going to cost in the end because each phase needs a new set of custom made aligners. If you can get done in six months that’s going to be a lot cheaper than if you’re looking at 18 months. We give you accurate estimates during your appointment so you know exactly what you’re getting into, and that frank talk can be a huge help in avoiding any surprises as your treatment goes on.
The materials and tech we use to make your aligners also factor into the final cost, we’re talking advanced scanning tools, specialist software for treatment planning and high quality polymers. Now, these investments in technology may seem like added extras but they actually end up giving our patients better fits, better prediction of how their teeth will move and a way more comfortable wearing experience. Damon braces use advanced self-ligating technology to reduce friction and improve comfort. Damon treatment often leads to faster results and fewer adjustments compared to traditional braces.
A lot of people are worried that clear aligners are going to cost a whole lot more than regular metal braces, but the thing is, they really aren’t when you consider how easy they are to use and how they can improve your quality of life. Now, prices can vary from practice to practice and case to case. Some of the initial costs of clear aligners are more than made up for by the fact that you can take them out to eat and clean them and you don’t have to miss out on as much work time.
Different insurance plans offer different types of coverage. Some dental insurance plans do include orthodontic care, which includes aligner therapy. But others might have age limits or lifetime maximums. We work closely with insurance carriers to make sure you get the most out of your benefits and to clarify exactly what part of your treatment your plan covers. We take care of all the paperwork and pre-authorization process so it’s as easy as possible for you.
We’ve got a few different ways to pay for therapy that can help out families with really different budgets. A lot of people find it helpful to pay for their therapy in monthly installments that match up with how long their treatment will take. By breaking it down into smaller, more predictable chunks that makes it a whole lot easier to manage. Some families like to pay in full upfront and get a discount for doing so.
Health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts typically cover orthodontic care, like aligner therapy. These dollars that you don’t have to pay taxes on can really add up and help you save a pretty penny. We give you all the paperwork you need to file a claim and we’ll even help you figure out how to get the most out of these benefits.
At Forest Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry we really don’t think that money should ever stand in the way of someone getting a healthy, confident smile. We help each family set up a payment plan that fits within their budget and their financial goals. And the thing is, the benefits of orthodontic treatment are way more than just the money you save upfront. Properly aligned teeth are a whole lot easier to clean which can save you money on dental work in the future. And let’s be honest, there’s no price on how a beautiful smile can boost your self-confidence and change your relationships for the better.