Invisalign Clear Aligners – Fountain Valley, CA

How Invisalign Works

Instead of using metal brackets and wires to straighten the teeth, Invisalign employs a series of clear, custom-made plastic aligners (sometimes referred to as trays). You wear each aligner for about two weeks, for around 22 hours each day, before you progress to the next in your series. The aligners will apply gentle pressure to the teeth in order to gradually move them into their proper positions.

Throughout your treatment period, you will have occasional checkups with our team so we can monitor your progress. On average, the total treatment time with Invisalign is just 12 months!

Indications for Invisalign

Invisalign can address most cases of mild to moderate dental misalignment. Here are a few examples of issues that it is commonly used to correct:

Crowded Teeth

Crowded teeth can be unsightly, and they can trap food between them. Invisalign, sometimes with the help of extractions, can shift your teeth so each one has the space it needs to function optimally.

Gaps Between Teeth

Large gaps between the teeth can leave your gums vulnerable to harm, and you may be self-conscious about their appearance. Invisalign is often able to guide the teeth closer together.

Bite Alignment

An overbite, underbite, cross bite, or open bite can adversely affect the way your mouth looks and functions. Invisalign, often along with special attachments, can often correct bite problems.

The Benefits of Invisalign

Some outstanding benefits of Invisalign include:

• The average treatment time is just 12 months . That is much shorter than the average treatment time with traditional braces!
• The aligners are removable . Therefore, you can eat all of your favorite foods and enjoy hassle-free oral hygiene.
• Quick appointments . Invisalign check-in appointments usually take just a few minutes. Plus, there are fewer appointments than with traditional braces.
• Comfort . The smooth plastic of the Invisalign trays is designed to fit comfortably against the teeth and gums.
• A subtle appearance . The aligners are not totally invisible, but they are unlikely to be the first thing that other people notice about your smile.

Understanding the Cost of Invisalign

Patients are often surprised to hear that there isn’t a flat fee for Invisalign. Instead, the price varies from case to case. Rest assured, we can provide you with an estimate of your orthodontic treatment at your consultation and review the financial solutions so you aren’t left in the dark about something as important as the cost. In the meantime, you can read on to learn a bit more on the topic, including a few of the factors that impact the final price.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Invisalign

Now that you know the cost of Invisalign depends on a few factors, you might be wondering what they are. Well, here are a few:

• If any preliminary treatments are needed
• The severity of your case
• How many aligners must be made
• If your treatment plan includes rubber bands and other orthodontic accessories
• The type of retainer you need

Again, we will be able to provide you with specific numbers at your consultation. We’ll also share what to do (and what not to do) to avoid additional costs down the line.

Does Invisalign Cost More Than Mail-In Aligners?

Typically, yes. Before you let that deter you though, you need to know why that is. While mail-order aligners completely bypass the initial exam and rely on DIY impressions, Invisalign includes a comprehensive oral exam to ensure you’re a candidate and uses state-of-the-art impressions to ensure each aligner fits perfectly. It’s also worth noting that progress visits with a licensed dental professional are a part of the Invisalign treatment process. That’s not the case with mail-order alternatives (which leave patients nowhere to turn if something goes wrong). Ultimately, Invisalign does require a higher upfront investment, but it’s well worth it!

Does Dental Insurance Cover Invisalign?

Yes, some dental insurance plans cover clear aligners. As a result, you might be able to use your benefits to reduce your out-of-pocket costs. If you are insured and want to utilize your coverage to the fullest, you’ll be happy to hear that we work with many of the nation’s leading providers, including Delta Dental, Aetna, Cigna, and Guardian. So, don’t hesitate to provide us with your membership information at your consultation – we’ll take it from there!

Options for Making Invisalign Affordable

If you are one of our patients who doesn’t have dental insurance at the moment, you’ll be happy to hear that there are other ways to make the cost of Invisalign more affordable, like flexible financing with CareCredit. Their payment plans prevent you from having to pay for the entire cost of your orthodontic treatment in one large sum. Instead, you can break down the total price into smaller chunks that work with your monthly budget.

We also welcome other financial solutions at our office, like our in-house savings plan and periodic special offers. If you’d like more details, let us know – we can help!

Invisalign FAQs