Navigating the world of Medicare coverage can be daunting, especially for specialized treatments like Invisalign. While Invisalign offers a discreet and comfortable way to straighten teeth, understanding whether it’s covered by Medicare requires delving into the specifics of Medicare plans and their dental benefits. This article aims to clarify the nuances of Medicare’s coverage for Invisalign and provide alternative options for those seeking orthodontic care.

Dr. Smith’s Summary

• Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) rarely covers Invisalign or other orthodontic treatments unless deemed medically necessary.
• Medicare Advantage Plans may offer additional dental benefits, including coverage for Invisalign, but this varies by plan and provider.
• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) can help cover the costs of Invisalign.
• Consulting with your dentist and reviewing your specific Medicare plan are crucial steps in determining your coverage options for Invisalign.
• Exploring supplemental insurance or alternative financing options can provide additional support for covering Invisalign treatment costs.

Understanding Medicare and Its Coverage Options

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger people with disabilities. It consists of several parts, each covering different aspects of healthcare:

What Medicare Typically Covers

Medicare, the federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, comprises different parts that cover various medical services. Medicare Part A generally handles hospital care, while Medicare Part B deals with medical services and supplies. However, when it comes to orthodontic care like braces or Invisalign, the coverage can be a bit more nuanced.

Medicare Part A vs. Part B

1. Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance): Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care.
2. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services.
3. Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage): Offers an alternative to traditional Medicare by providing coverage through private insurance companies approved by Medicare.
4. Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs.

Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Medicare Part C, are health insurance plans offered by private companies approved by Medicare. These plans provide an alternative way to receive your Medicare Part A and Part B benefits, and often include additional coverage for services like dental, vision, and hearing. Many seniors opt for Medicare Advantage plans due to their comprehensive coverage and potential cost savings. However, it’s essential to understand that dental coverage within these plans can vary, and not all procedures, such as dental implants, may be covered.

Pro Tip: Always review your Medicare Advantage plan’s benefits carefully to understand what dental services are covered. If you’re unsure, consulting with an experienced dentist like Dr. Nathan Smith, who specializes in dental implants in a small family office in the east valley of Phoenix, can provide clarity.

What is Invisalign and How Does It Work?

Benefits of Invisalign

Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses clear aligners to straighten teeth. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. This flexibility and discreetness have made Invisalign a preferred choice for many adults seeking orthodontic treatment. The clear aligners are nearly invisible, making them a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces.

• Virtually Invisible: The clear aligners are nearly invisible, making them a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces.
• Removable: Invisalign aligners can be easily removed for eating, brushing, and flossing, promoting better oral hygiene during treatment.
• Comfortable: With no sharp edges or brackets, Invisalign aligners are made from smooth plastic, making them more comfortable.
• Predictable Treatment Process: Utilizes advanced 3D imaging technology to plan the entire treatment from start to finish, allowing dentists to preview the outcomes.
• Fewer Office Visits: Invisalign requires fewer check-ups and adjustments than traditional braces, as several sets of aligners are provided in advance.
• Effective for a Wide Range of Corrections: Invisalign can correct many of the same dental issues as traditional braces, including overcrowding, gaps, and bite misalignments.

How Invisalign Differs from Traditional Braces

Invisalign aligners are practically invisible and can be removed for things like eating and cleaning your teeth. Traditional braces, on the other hand, are more noticeable and can make eating certain foods and maintaining oral hygiene more challenging. Invisalign aligners are made from smooth plastic, making them more comfortable than traditional braces.

Common Dental Issues Treated by Invisalign

Invisalign can treat a variety of dental issues, making it a versatile option for many patients. Some common issues include:

1. Overcrowding: When there isn’t enough space for teeth to align normally in the mouth.
2. Gaps: Spaces between teeth that can cause gum problems and misalignment.
3. Bite Misalignments: Including overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
4. Open Bites: When the upper and lower teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed.
5. Crossbites: When one or more of the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth.

Invisalign is a truly revolutionary treatment available for all ages that takes the discomfort away from wearing braces to school or work. If you’re interested in learning more about Invisalign, the costs, and whether you’re a good fit for the treatment, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Dr. Nathan Smith, an experienced dentist in the east valley of Phoenix. Dr. Smith specializes in dental implants and offers personalized care in a small family office setting.

Does Original Medicare Cover Invisalign?

Medicare Part A and Orthodontic Treatments

Medicare Part A, which is hospital insurance does not cover orthodontic treatments like Invisalign. This part of Medicare is primarily focused on inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, and some home health care services. Orthodontic treatments are considered elective and cosmetic, and thus, are not covered. However, if an orthodontic procedure is deemed medically necessary because of an accident or disease, there might be some exceptions, but these are rare.

Medicare Part B and Dental Coverage

Medicare Part B covers outpatient care, preventive services, and some medical supplies. Unfortunately, it also does not cover routine dental care or orthodontic treatments, including Invisalign. This means that regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and any form of teeth straightening are out-of-pocket expenses for those with only Original Medicare.

Exceptions to the Rule

Medicare might cover dental procedures in a few exceptions, but these cases are typically related to severe medical conditions. For example, if you need jaw reconstruction after an accident or surgery for oral cancer, Medicare might cover some of the associated dental costs. But mostly, Invisalign and other orthodontic treatments are not covered by Original Medicare.

If you’re considering Invisalign and are concerned about costs, it’s a good idea to explore other payment options or supplemental insurance plans. Dr. Nathan Smith, an experienced dentist in the east valley of Phoenix, often advises patients to look into these alternatives to make their orthodontic treatments more affordable.

Medicare Advantage Plans and Invisalign

Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Medicare Part C, are health insurance plans offered by private companies approved by Medicare. These plans provide an alternative way to receive your Medicare Part A and Part B benefits, and often include additional coverage for services like dental, vision, and hearing. Medicare Advantage plans are a popular choice among seniors because of their comprehensive coverage and potential cost savings. However, it’s essential to understand that dental coverage within these plans can vary, and not all procedures, such as Invisalign, may be covered.

Many Medicare Advantage plans offer dental coverage, and some even include orthodontic treatments like Invisalign. However, the extent of this coverage can vary significantly from one plan to another. Some plans may cover a portion of the cost, while others might not cover Invisalign at all. It’s crucial to review the specific details of your plan to understand what orthodontic services are included.

1. Review Your Plan’s Benefits: Start by looking at your plan’s summary of benefits. This document should outline what dental services are covered, including any orthodontic treatments.
2. Contact Your Insurance Provider: If you’re unsure about the details, give your insurance provider a call. They can provide specific information about your coverage.
3. Consult with Your Dentist: Your dentist, like Dr. Nathan Smith, an experienced dentist in the east valley of Phoenix, can also help you understand your insurance benefits and may even help contact your insurance provider to verify coverage.

Navigating the complexities of Medicare Advantage plans can be tricky, but understanding your benefits is key to maximizing your coverage. Always double-check the specifics of your plan and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed.

Alternative Ways to Pay for Invisalign

HSAs are a great way to save on Invisalign costs. These accounts allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses, including orthodontic treatments like Invisalign. Using an HSA can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Just make sure your HSA plan covers orthodontic treatments.

Similar to HSAs, FSAs let you use pre-tax dollars for medical expenses. The major difference is that FSAs are usually offered through your employer, and you must use the funds within the plan year. This can be a great option if you know you’ll need Invisalign treatment soon.

If HSAs and FSAs aren’t an option, don’t worry! Many dental offices, including Dr. Nathan Smith’s small family office in the east valley of Phoenix, offer flexible payment plans. These plans can break down the total cost into manageable monthly payments. Some offices even offer financing with low or no down payment.

• Payment Plans: Many dentists offer payment plans that allow you to pay for your Invisalign treatment over time. This can make the cost more manageable.
• CareCredit: This is a healthcare credit card that can be used for medical expenses, including Invisalign. It often offers promotional financing options.
• LendingPoint: Another financing option that provides personal loans for medical expenses, including dental treatments.

It’s always a good idea to discuss all available payment options with your dentist to find the best solution for your financial situation.

Steps to Determine Your Invisalign Coverage

First things first, grab your Medicare plan documents and give them a thorough read. Look for any mentions of dental or orthodontic coverage. Pay special attention to terms like “orthodontic services,” “dental aligners,” or “Invisalign.” If you’re having trouble deciphering the insurance jargon, call your insurance provider for clarification.

Next up, book an appointment with your dentist. If you’re in the East Valley of Phoenix, Dr. Nathan Smith is a fantastic choice. He’s an experienced dentist who specializes in dental implants and can provide valuable insights into whether Invisalign is a suitable option for you. Your dentist can also help you understand the costs involved and whether your specific dental issues can be treated with Invisalign.

Finally, give your insurance provider a call. Ask them directly if your plan covers Invisalign. Be sure to have your plan number and any other relevant information handy. They can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your coverage. If your current plan doesn’t cover Invisalign, ask about any supplemental plans or additional coverage options that might be available to you.

Taking these steps can save you a lot of time and money in the long run. It’s always better to know your coverage details upfront rather than being surprised by unexpected costs later.

Tips for Maximizing Your Orthodontic Benefits

First things first, get to know your policy inside and out. This means reading the fine print and understanding what is and isn’t covered. If you’re unsure about any details, call your insurance provider for clarification. Knowing your policy can save you from unexpected costs down the line.

It’s essential to keep a record of all your out-of-pocket expenses. This includes deductibles, copayments, and any other costs not covered by your insurance. Here’s a simple way to track these costs:

By keeping a detailed record, you can better manage your budget and avoid any financial surprises.

If your current plan doesn’t cover all your orthodontic needs, consider looking into supplemental insurance. These plans can offer additional coverage for treatments like Invisalign. Dr. Nathan Smith, an experienced dentist in the east valley of Phoenix, often recommends this to his patients who need extensive dental work.

Pro Tip: Supplemental insurance can be a game-changer for those needing more comprehensive dental care. Don’t overlook this option!

By following these tips, you can make the most out of your orthodontic benefits and ensure you’re not left with hefty bills. Happy smiling!

Maximizing your orthodontic benefits can save you time and money while ensuring you get the best possible care. Visit our website to learn more about how you can make the most of your insurance and financing options. Don’t wait—take the first step towards a healthier smile today!

Conclusion

So, there you have it! While Medicare rarely covers Invisalign or other orthodontic treatments, there are still some avenues you can explore. Medicare Advantage plans might offer some dental coverage, and there are exceptions for medically necessary procedures. It’s super important to review your specific plan and talk to your healthcare provider to get all the details. If you’re set on getting that perfect smile with Invisalign, check out all your options, including financing plans that can make the treatment more affordable. Happy smiling!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Original Medicare cover Invisalign?

No, Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not typically cover Invisalign or other orthodontic treatments. Medicare generally only covers dental procedures that are deemed medically necessary and performed in a hospital setting.

Can Medicare Advantage plans cover Invisalign?

Yes, some Medicare Advantage plans may offer dental benefits that include coverage for orthodontic treatments like Invisalign. Coverage varies by plan, so it’s essential to review your specific plan details or consult with your insurance provider.

What are the benefits of choosing Invisalign over traditional braces?

Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, removable for eating and cleaning, more comfortable with no sharp edges, and require fewer office visits compared to traditional braces. They can effectively treat a wide range of dental issues, including overcrowding, gaps, and bite misalignments.

Are there alternative ways to pay for Invisalign if Medicare doesn’t cover it?

Yes, you can use Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), or other financing options like CareCredit to pay for Invisalign. Some dental offices also offer payment plans to make the treatment more affordable.

How can I determine if my Medicare Advantage plan covers Invisalign?

To determine if your Medicare Advantage plan covers Invisalign, review your plan’s benefits summary, consult with your dentist, and contact your insurance provider for detailed information on orthodontic coverage.

What steps should I take if I want to get Invisalign but have Medicare?

First, review your Medicare plan to understand your coverage. Consult with your dentist to discuss your treatment needs and get an estimate. Finally, contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage details and explore alternative payment options if necessary.

The post Is Invisalign Covered by Medicare? Understanding Your Orthodontic Benefits appeared first on East Valley Dental Professionals.

Achieving a stunning, straight smile is now remarkably accessible to the residents of Arizona, thanks to innovative technologies in orthodontic treatments, like clear aligners. Clear Correct and Invisalign, two prominent brands in the realm of clear aligners, have transformed the landscape of orthodontic care by providing an aesthetically pleasing alternative to conventional metallic braces. With custom-crafted plastic trays designed to methodically align your teeth, the journey to a dazzling smile is now subtle and seamless. Let’s delve deeper into the clear correct invisible aligners benefits, particularly focusing on the Arizona demographic.

Clear Correct Aligners: A Synopsis

Invisible Alignment for All Ages

Clear Correct aligners have garnered substantial traction among various age groups, especially adults and teenagers in Arizona, who seek an unobtrusive method to enhance their smiles. These aligners are fabricated from a clear plastic material, making them virtually invisible and a discrete option for teeth straightening.

Customized for Precision

Every Clear Correct treatment plan commences with a thorough dental assessment, followed by the creation of custom aligners tailored meticulously to the unique dental architecture of each individual.

What are clear aligners and how do they work?

Clear aligners, including Clear Correct and Invisalign, are orthodontic devices that are used to straighten teeth without the need for traditional metal braces. They are made of a clear plastic material and are virtually invisible when worn. The aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth and are designed to apply gentle pressure to gradually move your teeth into the desired positions.

Clear Correct Aligners

Clear Correct aligners are a popular choice for orthodontic treatment. They are made from a clear, BPA-free plastic material that is comfortable to wear and easy to maintain. Clear Correct aligners are custom-made for each patient and are designed to gradually shift the teeth into their proper alignment.

Invisalign aligners

Invisalign aligners are another popular brand of clear aligners. Like Clear Correct aligners, Invisalign aligners are made from a clear plastic material that is virtually invisible when worn. These aligners are also custom-made for each patient and are designed to gradually straighten the teeth over time.

How aligners are made

The process of creating clear aligners involves taking digital impressions or physical impressions of your teeth. These impressions are used to create a 3D model of your teeth, which is then used to design a series of aligners that will guide your teeth into the desired position. Each aligner is worn for a specific period of time before being replaced with the next aligner in the series.

What are the benefits of using clear aligners?

There are several clear correct invisible aligners benefits for orthodontic treatment:

Straighten your teeth

The main benefit of clear aligners is their ability to straighten your teeth. Whether you have minor misalignments or more complex orthodontic issues, clear aligners can help to gradually move your teeth into the proper position, giving you a straight and confident smile.

Improved oral hygiene

Compared to traditional metal braces, clear aligners offer better oral hygiene. Since clear aligners are removable, you can easily brush and floss your teeth without any obstacles. This promotes better oral health during the course of your treatment.

Removable aligners

Clear aligners are designed to be removable, giving you the flexibility to take them out when eating, brushing, and flossing. This means you can enjoy your favorite foods without any restrictions and maintain your oral hygiene routine without any difficulties.

How do clear aligners compare to traditional braces?

When comparing clear aligners to traditional braces, there are several advantages:

No wires and brackets

Clear aligners do not require any wires and brackets, making them a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional metal braces. The absence of these components reduces the chances of discomfort and mouth sores.

More comfortable

Clear aligners are made of a smooth plastic material that is gentler on the inside of your mouth. This eliminates the irritation and soreness often associated with wearing traditional metal braces.

Clear and discreet

Clear aligners are virtually invisible when worn, making them a discreet orthodontic treatment option. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who wish to straighten their teeth without drawing attention to their dental treatment.

How long does the treatment with clear aligners usually take?

The duration of treatment with clear aligners can vary depending on the individual case:

Treatment duration

On average, treatment with clear aligners takes several months to a year to complete. However, the exact duration will depend on the severity of the orthodontic issues and how well the aligners are worn.

Number of aligners

The number of aligners required for treatment will also vary. Typically, patients receive a new set of aligners every two weeks as their teeth gradually move into the desired position.

Compliance is key

For the best results, it is important to wear your clear aligners as directed by your dentist or orthodontist. Compliance with the recommended wear time, typically 22 hours a day, will help ensure the success of your treatment.

What Should You Consider Before Choosing Clear Aligners?

Embarking on a journey toward a picture-perfect smile with clear aligners is an exciting prospect, but there are several critical factors to ponder upon before finalizing your decision:

1. Your Orthodontic Needs:

Evaluate the complexity of your dental issues. While clear aligners are highly effective for correcting mild to moderate misalignments, severe cases might require a different orthodontic approach.

2. Lifestyle Considerations:

Clear aligners require a commitment to wearing them for the recommended 20-22 hours per day. Consider your daily routine, discipline, and willingness to adhere to this schedule.

3. Budget and Cost:

Clear aligners can be a significant financial investment. Ensure you have a clear understanding of all costs involved, explore available payment plans, and check whether your dental insurance provides any coverage.

4. Treatment Duration:

While clear aligners often promise quicker results compared to traditional braces, the duration can vary based on the complexity of the correction needed. Establish realistic expectations and ensure they align with your goals.

5. Maintenance and Care:

Be ready to commit to the care of your aligners, which includes regular cleaning and safe storage when they are not in use to maintain oral health and the integrity of the device.

6. Choosing the Right Provider:

Ensure that you select a dental professional experienced in administering clear aligner treatments. Their expertise will significantly impact the success of your treatment plan and overall experience. Choosing the adept hands of Dr. Nathan Smith in Arizona for your clear aligner treatments guarantees you’re entrusting your smile to a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the field. His profound expertise in administering clear aligner treatments, particularly in the Arizona region, has sculpted countless successful smiles, substantially impacting the overall patient experience and treatment outcomes. With a patient-centered approach, Dr. Smith ensures that your journey toward a perfectly aligned smile is smooth, effective, and tailored specifically to your needs, cementing his status as a trusted local dental expert in the arena of clear aligner treatments.

7. Post-Treatment Management:

Post alignment, retention devices or retainers might be needed to maintain the new position of your teeth. It’s vital to understand and commit to this phase to ensure the longevity of the treatment results.

8. Visual Aesthetics and Comfort:

While clear aligners are discreet, ensure you are comfortable with their appearance and feel in your mouth, as you will be wearing them most of the day and night.

9. Potential Impact on Daily Activities:

While clear aligners are generally non-intrusive, consider any potential impact on speech or other daily activities and whether you’re comfortable with these changes.

10. Food and Drink Adjustments:

Remember that aligners should be removed when eating and drinking anything other than water, which could necessitate adjustments in your eating and drinking habits.

Clear Correct Customized Treatment Plan in Arizona

At East Valley Dental Specialists, Dr. Nathan Smith has established himself as a vanguard in providing innovative dental solutions, especially with the Clear Correct treatment plans. Drawing upon his vast experience and the state-of-the-art facilities available in the East Valley region, Dr. Smith crafts individualized Clear Correct aligner systems to seamlessly straighten and beautify smiles. This modern orthodontic approach not only promises efficacy but also ensures comfort and aesthetic discretion. Those in the East Valley seeking a transformative journey toward a radiant smile need to look no further. Entrust your orthodontic aspirations to the expertise of Dr. Nathan Smith and witness the marvel of Clear Correct aligners. Act now and schedule your consultation to embark on a path to dental brilliance.

The post Benefits of Clear Correct Invisible Aligners in Arizona appeared first on East Valley Dental Professionals.

While you may be well aware of the horrors of braces, Invisalign is another treatment plan for your crooked teeth that may have been invisible to you until now. This plastic insert can get you back a smile you can be proud of, even if you’ve neglected your oral health. And while you’re wearing this correctional piece, it doesn’t have to stand out and draw negative attention.

Metal braces are like a rite of passage for kids, so the culture hasn’t given Invisalign much credit. You may have heard about them but are not exactly sure how they work and how they are different from braces. We want to tell you more about Invisalign to show you how it can give you a beautiful smile.

What is Invisalign?

If you are not aware, Invisalign is an insertable dental piece your doctor creates with 3D scans of your mouth. It is a clear plastic aligner that you wear daily for straightening your teeth and fixing any crooked ones. Your dentist will custom-make an Invisalign to fit your mouth size and shape, both for the lower and upper teeth.

This treatment option is fantastic for your crooked teeth, but Invisalign can also help with other teeth correctional issues you may have. These often go hand-in-hand with crooked teeth, and you likely have them in addition to crooked teeth.

• Misaligned teeth
• Open bite
• Small gaps in teeth
• Underbite
• Overbite

How Does Invisalign Straighten Crooked Teeth?

The plastic insert will pressure your teeth once you put Invisalign into your mouth, forming it into a correct shape. An experienced dentist’s hand will realign teeth that were once out of place. You will wear them in your mouth for 20 to 22 hours a day and must continuously keep them in for a perfect smile. Like other dental treatments, they will feel strange in your mouth at first, but you will adjust to them over time.

You are in charge of your oral health, so your crooked teeth will stay stagnant if you don’t wear your Invisalign clear aligners.

Invisalign Makes You Proud of Your Smile

You may have had nightmares as a kid of getting braces, or you may have had braces in middle school, which is why you’re considering an Invisalign treatment. The good news is that Invisalign corrects your teeth faster and more efficiently than traditional braces. They show your natural teeth and hide any obnoxious equipment glued to them.

One of the most important factors you have probably considered with Invisalign is they are virtually invisible compared to braces. You really have to search someone’s smile to find a clear plastic piece versus a metal billboard in your mouth. They straighten better by giving you a smile you don’t have to be ashamed of from start to finish. The alternative is having your mouth look worse as you progress toward a better smile.

Invisalign Straightens Better than Braces

Practically, most dental insurances cover Invisalign, and the solution can cost less than braces depending on how long you have them in. So you are not signing yourself up to pay more for a better smile: you’re actually getting it for less. However, you need to speak with a local or family dentist to calculate the exact pricing and see what the cost difference would be. Better straightening means straightening for less.

Finally, braces have limitations where they cannot always fit over every tooth surface if they are overlapped, rotated, or too crooked. Invisalign works, on the other hand, to handle these extreme crooked teeth cases and correct where braces cannot. They can get your teeth moving faster during rotation and finish quicker than braces.

Our Family Offers Invisalign

Invisalign is overall the most cost-friendly, effective way to correct your teeth on the dental market. Braces are beginning to disappear as a viable orthodontic treatment since Invisalign can fix and protect your smile from start to finish. They are the way of the future, and you can forget the horrors of a braces stigma you may have grown up with.

Our Arizona family practice has treated kids and adults with crooked teeth for generations. We have the experience to know exactly how to correct your teeth, no matter how crooked they are, and give your confidence back. You can call our office at (480).838.3033 to ask any more questions about Invisalign. We can also show you some prices and introduce you to our family if you request an appointment as an Invisalign patient.

The post How Invisalign for Crooked Teeth Gives Your Confidence Back appeared first on East Valley Dental Professionals.

If you don’t have the perfect smile and want to correct it without the glare of traditional, metal braces, you may want to consider Invisalign. These clear aligners improve your smile just as well as tradition orthodontic treatments without the potential risks to your oral health traditional braces create. However, on your hunt for information about this popular technology, you may also see it comes with a pretty heavy price.

In the article below, we will uncover some of the benefits of Invisalign, why we think they are well worth the premium, in addition to some payment options that help lower the cost of Invisalign treatment. In combination, these factors will ultimately uncover whether Invisalign is the right choice for you.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a custom made clear aligner that is changed out every two weeks for around 6 to 18 months or longer if needed. Each aligner is specifically designed for the individual patient to gently shift the teeth to the desired position. As the teeth shift, a new aligner is made to continue the movement until the teeth are exactly where they need to be.

The Benefits of Invisalign

When compared to traditional braces, the convenience and oral health benefits of Invisalign are clear, offering a wide range of benefits ranging all the way from cleaning to comfort.

1. They Are Less Noticeable
   Having a mouth full of metal braces is an eyesore that grows exponentially more embarrassing when getting them later in life. As the name suggests, Invisalign is nearly invisible.
2. You can Eat Whatever You Want
   Because the trays can be removed just like a retainer, you are free from the many dietary restrictions that come with traditional braces.
3. Clean and Floss as Normal
   For anyone that has had braces in the past, you know it’s difficult to clean them. Getting into each crevice around the brace, threading your floss, and potentially needing a Waterpik to get your entire tooth clean, creates quite the hassle. With Invisalign, simply remove the tray then brush and floss as normal.
4. Better Gum Health
   The way metal braces sit on your teeth and the challenge they pose to proper brushing leaves many opportunities for poor gum stimulation. This can cause gum problems over time. With removable trays, there is no adverse effect to the gumline.
5. No Metal and No Sharp Edges
   The metal of braces can result in sharp edges and soreness on the inside of the mouth. Because Invisalign is custom made to fit your teeth, they sit flush on the surface. This, in combination with the smooth plastic material, nearly eliminates all possibilities for irritation to occur.

Financial Considerations

The average cost of a full set of aligners costs around $5,000– roughly $2000 more than traditional braces. This should not discourage you however, as there are ways to either financially plant for the procedure or receive a reduced price.

1. Check Your Insurance Coverage
   Most dental insurance plans cover at least part of the cost for your Invisalign aligners. A rule of thumb here is that if your insurance has coverage for metal braces, alternative treatment options will likely be covered as well.
2. Ask About Payment Plans
   Most dental professionals will work with your budget and help you with monthly payment plans to enable you to pay for your treatment. With children, early intervention can help determine the extent of care needed and estimate the overall budget of the aligners will be.
3. Flex Spending Accounts
   If you have healthcare through your employer, you may be able to utilize a flexible spending account (FSA). You contribute pretax dollars to an FSA and can, in turn, use that money for items such as copays, deductibles, and medical costs. Your employer may even make contributions to your FSA, although this is legally required.
4. Health Savings Account
   An HSA works similarly to an FSA, in that it allows you to set aside tax free dollars to use towards medical expenses. This type of savings account is used in conjunction with a high deductible health insurance policy.

Limitations of Invisalign

While there are many benefits to Invisalign, this type of treatment is not designed for everyone. If you have teeth that need extensive adjustments, such as very crooked teeth or teeth that sit at different heights, traditional braces and possibly other treatments will be more effective. This is because it is more difficult for plastic to shift the teeth into complex movements.

Your age may also play a part in choosing the right dental solution. Older teenagers and adults are good Invisalign candidates because their teeth and jaw are fully developed. Younger teens or children see leff effect from Invisalign as they may outgrow the size captured in thor initial impression kit.

Furthermore, maturity and responsibility also play an important role. Invisalign needs to be worn at least 22 hours a day to work. Young children may take advantage of being able to remove the aligners without remembering to put them back in, significantly delaying the process or rendering the align technology useless.

Contact a Trusted Provider

The key to straightening your teeth with the best results possible is to work with a professional team that can help you meet your goals. If your teeth need moderate adjustments and you want a nearly invisible, flexible option, Invisalign might be perfect for you.

Contact our office today and we’ll formulate the best treatment plan possible for your specific needs. Then all that’s left to do is order aligners to give you a perfect smile.

The post Invisalign Cost, Benefits, and Convenience appeared first on East Valley Dental Professionals.

A beautiful smile is one of the most attractive features a person can have. It’s important to take excellent care of your teeth. Even if you maintain excellent oral health, you may be at risk for gaps between your teeth. In some cases, a gap can grow bigger over time making it more noticeable. Luckily, the gap does not have to be permanent. There are several dental procedures you can choose from too close the gaps between your teeth.

Cause of Gaps Between Teeth

There are many issues that may cause a gap between your teeth. If your jaw is misaligned, the space between your teeth can increase due to crowding of your other teeth. If you have missing or undersized teeth, it can cause the neighboring teeth to move and shift, creating a gap.

Habits such as sucking your thumb can pull your front teeth and create a gap. Spaces can develop if your swallowing reflex does not function properly as well. When you swallow, your tongue should normally push against the roof of your mouth. However, some people tend to thrust their tongue forward against their front teeth. When this occurs, your front teeth can move and create a gap.

Gum disease can also weaken your jaw resulting in gaps between your teeth. Whatever the cause, your dentist can evaluate your situation to see which dental procedure is right for you.

Dental bonding

Dental bonding is the fastest and most affordable option to fix any gaps between your teeth. The procedure involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to your teeth. The material is adapted to shape and looks exactly like your teeth. A UV light will be used to harden the material and the gap will close.

The bonding procedure can be completed in one office visit and it takes about 30 to 60 minutes. Even though it is the most affordable and simplest solution, the bonding material is prone to stain. Plus, the procedure uses resin that is not as strong in comparison to other dental materials, so it may chip or break off easily. Luckily, through proper care and maintenance, the bonding material can last for a long period of time. This means that you have to maintain healthy dental habits such as flossing, brushing, and using mouthwash twice a day as well as visiting your dentist twice a year.

Veneers

Porcelain veneers are an excellent option to fix the gap between your teeth. It requires a little more work than dental bonding and is typically more expensive, but the procedure is relatively simple and the results can last for a long period of time.

Veneers contain porcelain material that has been shaped in a lab and match the color of your teeth. They are placed in front of your teeth and act as a mask. They cover any imperfections, spaces, or gaps between your teeth. Veneer material is very sturdy and does not easily break. This means you will not have to worry about chipping your veneers.

The process is irreversible, so you need to be sure that you are happy with your results. The procedure can also be invasive because a thin layer of the enamel must be removed to make room for the veneers. Unfortunately, without enamel, you will have to rely on your veneers for protection. Even though veneers can correct cosmetic problems, depending on the extent of your gap or space, you might be referred to an orthodontist.

Orthodontics

If the gap between your teeth cannot be fixed through dental bonding or veneers, you may need to visit an orthodontist. Correcting the gaps between your teeth might not be as simple as you think. However, braces can be used to correct severe gaps. If you do not want metal brackets on your teeth, you may be a candidate for invisible aligners, which are less noticeable and easy to remove. Choosing an orthodontic treatment, such as Invisaligns, over dental bonding and veneers may be an excellent alternative to give your smile the makeover it needs.

How we can help

To successfully close the gaps between your teeth, you should visit a dentist with years of experience. At EVDP dentistry, we have experience in cosmetic procedures used to close gaps. Through a thorough dental examination, we can advise you which procedure is right for you. If you are ready to close the gaps between your teeth, give us a call!

The post How Can I Fix the Gap between Teeth appeared first on East Valley Dental Professionals.