Save Time & Money On Orthodontics

While many believe that orthodontics are purely aesthetic treatments, they offer more than what meets the eye. Crooked teeth can be more challenging to clean, which puts the health of teeth and gums at jeopardy. Also, misaligned teeth can unbalance the bite, which can lead to jaw discomfort, migraines, and other symptoms of TMJ disorder.

When it comes to orthodontic treatments, many people choose clear aligner systems instead of metal braces for their virtually invisible appearance and the flexibility to remove aligners before meals and oral hygiene routines

If you’re interested in straightening your teeth with a clear aligner system (such as Invisalign® or Invisalign Teen), you may be wondering how treatment will affect your precious time and wallet. In this blog, we unpack questions regarding Invisalign expenses and treatment time.

Surface-Level, Extrinsic Staining

According to the manufacturer’s website, the cost of Invisalign and braces are similar. More complex cases require additional materials and treatment time, which increases the cumulative cost. When financing orthodontic treatment, out-of-pocket is not the only way to pay for orthodontics. If your insurance, health spending account, or flexible spending account covers braces, it should also cover Invisalign.

How often will I need to visit the dentist?

If it’s difficult to take off work or school, Invisalign systems are the most optimal option. Some patients with traditional braces must visit their orthodontists every two to four weeks for adjustments. Also, dental emergencies are more common with braces than clear aligner systems. Typically, patients with Invisalign only need to visit their dentists once every four to six weeks to inspect progress and hand out new trays.

How long will Invisalign treatment last?

In a study published by BMC Oral Health, researchers discovered that patients with clear aligners had a statistically significantly shorter treatment than braces. Some patients complete treatment in as little as six months while others need more time. It’s important to note that total treatment time will reflect the complexity of the case. For example, minor gaps and crowding should have shorter treatment times than extremely crowded teeth.

Can Invisalign save me money in the long run?

Notoriously, braces are difficult to clean. When patients with braces do not thoroughly clean their teeth with interdental brushes, bacteria and food particles can build up on the teeth. This accumulation of bacteria can morph into destructive plaque and tartar, which can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and gum recession. Unhealthy teeth and gums can lead to further treatments to keep cavities and periodontal (gum) disease at bay:

• Cavities must be treated to protect as much dental tissue as possible and prevent spread to other teeth. Dentists treat cavities based on severity, including fillings, crowns, and root canals.
• Gingivitis is the only reversible form of gum disease. Dentists reverse gingivitis through deep scaling and root planing.
• Periodontal disease is not reversible, but dentists can help prevent it from getting worse. Treatment depends greatly on symptoms.
• Inflammatory diseases (including diabetes and heart disease) are linked to periodontal diseases and damage over health.

Oral health conditions and inflammatory diseases come with a price tag. Some services, such as replacing a tooth due to periodontal disease with a dental implant, are not usually covered by insurance. One major benefit of Invisalign is that they are removable, so patients have increased access to the teeth and gums during brushing and flossing.

Schedule an Orthodontics Appointment in Tucson, AZ

Are you looking for efficient and affordable orthodontic treatment in Tucson, AZ? Dr. Asadi offers Invisalign and Invisalign Teen for patients who want to straighten their teeth. Schedule an appointment with us by calling (520) 353-3002.