Invisalign® FAQs

Listed here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions that people may have about Invisalign® treatment, including costs, details about the treatment, and more. This alternative to traditional braces is a great option for many people.

How is Invisalign® different from regular metal braces?

While both Invisalign® aligners and regular braces move the teeth to correct problems like overbites, underbites, overcrowding, and gaps, their similarities really end there. Traditional braces involve placing metal brackets on each tooth and they are connected by a metal wire. The wire is tightened over time to move the teeth in the desired direction. In contrast, with Invisalign®, the patient wears a clear molded plastic “aligner” over their teeth. They get a new aligner every two weeks or so and that is how the teeth are moved. The Invisalign® can be removed to eat and brush teeth, which makes it easier to care for than metal braces. They also have the added benefit of being practically invisible to others.

What are the costs associated with Invisalign®?

The costs for Invisalign® treatment vary greatly from person to person. The factors that affect the price are length of treatment, the severity of the overbite or teeth crowding, as well as other indeterminate factors. The cosmetic dentistry procedure can start at about $3,500, but the average is about $5,000. Some insurance companies will cover the cost of the treatment, especially if it is for a child or teenager rather than an adult.

Do I need to go to an orthodontist to get Invisalign®?

No. You can probably have the procedure performed from your regular dentist or a dentist in your area. In order to be able to provide the treatment, dentists must go through specific training so that they know how to properly use the product. There are more than 50,000 dentists nationwide that have qualified to provide Invisalign® procedure so the chances are good there is one in your area.

I know that metal braces hurt. Is Invisalign® pain-free?

While Invisalign® is more comfortable to wear that traditional metal braces, they are not pain-free. Anytime you are intentionally moving your teeth in a short period of time, pain will result. Removing gaps or fixing overcrowding does not happen magically and requires work. However, with Invisalign®, you do not have the pain of being poked in the gums or jaw with the metal brackets and you do not have to deal with the snapping of rubber bands that come with braces.