Invisalign – Tyler, TX

Factors that Affect the Cost of Invisalign

The cost of Invisalign treatment varies on a few different factors. Here are some of the most prominent:

• Number of Arches: Most people who undergo Invisalign treatment will need to have both their upper and lower teeth addressed. However, in some cases, only one arch needs to be addressed. If this applies to you, the cost will be lower.
• Complexity: If you have more severe alignment issues, your treatment will probably cost more. Closing a few small gaps is less costly than correcting significant bite problems.
• Length of Treatment: A longer treatment time means additional aligners and a higher overall cost.

Invisalign VS Smile Direct Club™: Which Costs More?

When a patient is looking for a “quick fix,” low-budget options, like Smile Direct Club™, are tempting. However, a lower cost doesn’t mean that it is a better option. The price is generally lower than Invisalign, but treatments like Smile Direct Club™ have a do-it-yourself approach with little to no oversight from a dental professional. This means more room for error, and you could end up with serious problems that will need to be treated by a dentist anyway.

With Invisalign, you have the trusted oversight of our dentists for every step along the way. Invisalign is professionally made, uses highly accurate impressions, and results in a more successful treatment. The cost difference is certainly worth it for a smooth, stress-free treatment.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Invisalign?

Some dental insurance plans include partial coverage for orthodontic treatment, so you should check with your provider to see if this applies to you. At Times Square Family Dental, we are happy to accept most PPO insurances. If you have any questions regarding your plan and what it covers, don’t hesitate to talk to one of our friendly team members.

To find out exactly how much you can expect your treatment to cost, schedule a consultation with us. We’re eager to help you achieve a straighter smile!

Wearing Your Trays

Basically, there’s one thing you need to keep in mind: you need to wear your aligners for 20-22 hours each day. This is one of the very few rules that comes with clear aligner treatment, so it’s extremely important that you stick to it. If you don’t, then there’s a really good chance that your teeth won’t move in accordance with your treatment plan, resulting in frustrating delays and added costs.

Note: One of the easiest ways to make meeting this goal daily possible is by creating a solid routine with the help of the stopwatch on your phone!

Cleaning Your Aligners

Fortunately, keeping your aligners clear and stain-free doesn’t require anything too extensive. In fact, it will only take a few minutes of your time and there are only two things you need: clean, cool water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. If needed, you can also dissolve a packet of cleaning crystals (the ones that came in your Invisalign welcome kit) in lukewarm water before placing your trays in the mixture. This will give them an even deeper clean.

Eating & Drinking

Fortunately, navigating meals and snacks with Invisalign is easy because all you need to do is take your aligners off first! You should also take them off before drinking any dark-colored beverages, including soda, wine, and coffee.

We should also mention here the importance of sticking to a well-balanced diet that’s low in added sugar. This will help prevent oral health problems, like cavities, from surfacing and negatively impacting your treatment.

Losing or Damaging a Tray

If you accidentally lose or break one of your trays, we recommend calling us ASAP. It’s important that you do that instead of trying to take matters into your own hands by moving on to the next set of aligners in the series or using super glue. That way, we can determine a way forward that will lead to as little treatment plan delays as possible.

Routine Check-Ins

Throughout your teeth-straightening journey with Invisalign, you’ll need to come to our Tyler dental office. That way, we can take new scans of your teeth, compare those scans to your treatment plan, and see if you’re on-track. If you aren’t, then we can quickly determine how your treatment plan needs to be adjusted. If you are, then we will give you your next set of aligners and see you at your next appointment!

What Does Invisalign Look Like?

An Invisalign aligner is made of clear plastic that will fit over your teeth like a glove. Although you can see the aligners while holding them in your hands, they are very difficult to detect when in your mouth. If you need attachments or buttons, they'll be made of tooth-colored materials for a discreet appearance. Your aligners will stay transparent by committing to your oral hygiene and keeping them clean. Don't forget to remove them when having anything except water to prevent staining your aligners.

Does Invisalign Hurt?

Invisalign is said to be more comfortable than metal braces because there aren't any brackets or wires pulling on your teeth. Aligners are smooth, so there's no irritation to the insides of your lips or cheeks. It's normal to have some tenderness when first wearing your aligners or when switching to the next set in your series, but that’s a sign your treatment is working. Aligners apply continual pressure on your teeth to move them. Any discomfort will improve within a couple of days. You can manage it with an OTC pain reliever. Eat soft foods for a few days until any soreness subsides.

Is Invisalign Cheaper Than Braces?

Invisalign and metal braces can cost about the same. There's no flat fee for orthodontics because every mouth and situation differs. Many factors will affect the amount you'll pay, like the complexity of your case. Your cosmetic dentist in Tyler will create a personalized strategy to achieve a straight smile and review your payment options, like using your dental insurance. Your benefits may cover a portion of the cost after meeting your deductible. Our office offers various payment options to keep your treatment affordable, like monthly payments using a third-party financing company. We have the solutions you need to keep a straight smile within your budget.

How Long Does Invisalign Take?

Every situation is unique, but the average treatment takes 12 to 18 months. Several factors affect your timeline, like the complexity of the tooth movements needed. Major movements will require more aligners. Your age can also affect the duration of your treatment. Teens can have shorter timelines because their mouths are still growing and developing, so their teeth are easier to move. You can ensure there aren't any delays added to your journey by wearing your aligners for at least 22 hours per day. Switch to the next set of aligners in your series every 1-2 weeks as instructed by your dentist. Maintain your regular appointments with Dr. Perez. He will monitor the progress of your treatment to keep you on track to reach your goals on time.