Invisalign® Costs
Invisalign® is among the most convenient, effective, and comfortable orthodontic systems available, making it an extremely popular option for San Diego and La Jolla patients to straighten their teeth. Due to their reputation as an “upgrade” from traditional metal braces, many men and women wonder whether the clear, removable aligners are an affordable option for orthodontic treatment. As part of our ongoing commitment to strong patient education, our AACD-accredited cosmetic dentist and multispecialty team at Scripps Center for Dental Care have thoroughly outlined what individuals can expect from the cost of their Invisalign® treatment.
- Average Cost of Invisalign®
- Invisalign® Cost Factors
- Invisalign® & Insurance
- Invisalign® & Financing
How Much Does Invisalign® Cost in San Diego?
On average, the price range for Invisalign® aligners in San Diego can range from $3,500 to $8,000 depending on the nature of your dental plan. Each cost estimate is personalized according to each person’s custom-tailored Invisalign® treatment, so there’s no universal price for Invisalign®.
When “shopping” for an Invisalign® provider, it’s crucial to remember that orthodontics are a serious investment into your smile, jaw alignment, and oral health. Treatment permanently realigns the structure of the upper and lower jaws, so it’s essential to entrust your goals to a highly trained orthodontist and multispecialty dental team to maximize the safety and quality of your final results. While it can be tempting for many patients to consider “DIY braces” or mail-order orthodontic programs based on lower cost estimates, these systems do not place patients under the direct supervision of a certified dentist. This vastly increases the risks of poor or incorrect treatment, jaw joint dysfunctions, and more expensive or time-consuming treatment in the future to repair any damage incurred.
For these reasons, the importance of enlisting a well-qualified and experienced dentist for your Invisalign® treatment cannot be overstated.
Factors Affecting Invisalign® Costs
Invisalign® involves a personalized treatment process influenced by a multitude of different cost factors, such as:
- The geographic location of treatment: Costs vary by region and the price of Invisalign® in one part of the country often deviates from pricing in another area. In San Diego, Invisalign® costs are typically more economical than other major metropolitan cities like Los Angeles, New York City, and Miami.
- The number of aligner sets required to achieve your goals: The number of aligner sets required to straighten your teeth is dependent upon the length of your customized treatment plan. In cases of more severe crowding or bite problems, treatment time can be upwards of a year and half, which will influence your cost estimate.
- The length of your treatment: If you do not consistently wear your aligners or they become damaged, these issues can prolong your total treatment time and increase Invisalign® costs.
- The severity of your concerns: The severity of orthodontic issues addressed (such as crowding, spacing, malocclusion) significantly impacts the cost. More complex cases typically require more aligners and longer treatment times.
- The experience of your dentist/orthodontist: The specialization level of your Invisalign® provider can certainly influence pricing. While less experienced dentists often offer a cheaper rate, your health, safety, and appearance relies on obtaining a knowledgeable, well-trained orthodontist to address your concerns.
- The use of complementary treatments and advanced technologies: Supplemental treatments and technologies (such as cavity filling, gum disease treatment, etc.) may be necessary before starting the Invisalign® process. If necessary, these preliminary or preventive services will be incorporated into your cost estimate.
After discussing your needs in an appointment, our office will be able to give you a personalized quote and provide a detailed breakdown of the total costs.
Does Insurance Cover the Price of Invisalign®?
Yes, Invisalign® is often covered by dental insurance, but the extent of coverage can vary depending on your specific insurance plan. Many dental insurance policies include orthodontic benefits and may provide partial coverage for Invisalign® in the same way as traditional braces. Typically, insurance may cover a percentage of the treatment cost — commonly 25% to 50% — or accommodate costs up to a fixed dollar amount. However, not all plans include adult orthodontics coverage, and some policies have age restrictions, annual or lifetime maximums, or require pre-authorization. We encourage you to review your individual plan details or consult with your insurance coordinator to understand exactly what your policy covers.
Is Invisalign® Affordable in San Diego?
Yes, our practice believes quality dental care should always be available regardless of financial constraints and we accept dental financing for qualified patients to make your total costs more affordable. With financing through Lending Club, San Diego patients can make Invisalign® significantly more affordable by enrolling in flexible monthly payment options, suitable for a variety of budgets. Instead of paying the full cost of treatment upfront, approved applicants can spread the cost over multiple manageable monthly installments. Lending Club offers competitive interest rates, extended payment terms, and no upfront payment requirements, making it easier for patients to begin treatment right away. We’re thrilled this financing option can help make advanced and cosmetic orthodontic care like Invisalign® more accessible without compromising quality or convenience.
Our talented dentists understand that cost is a significant factor in identifying the best orthodontic treatment for your smile and bite. We can evaluate your needs and determine the most cost-effective approach to straightening your teeth during a consultation. Don’t hesitate to contact Scripps Center for Dental Care today to learn about the full scope of our services.