Constantly looking in the mirror and wishing you had straighter teeth? Thinking about perfecting your smile with Invisalign but wondering how much it’ll set you back in Ottawa?
Invisalign has become a fantastic solution for those who require orthodontic treatment or want more alignment without the hassle of traditional braces. It’s clear, convenient, and lets you go about your day without anyone noticing you’re wearing them. But when it comes to price, things can feel a bit unclear.
In this post, we’ll break down the costs, who qualifies for Invisalign, and what to expect when starting the Invisalign system.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses clear aligners to straighten teeth. The treatment involves a series of custom-made aligners that are worn for 20-22 hours a day.
Each “tray,” as they’re called, is made to gradually shift your teeth into place over the course of your treatment plan, to eventually produce a beautiful smile. It’s a discreet and convenient alternative to traditional metal braces as they’re virtually invisible and can correct all sorts of minor comestic and non-cosmetic dental health issues.
Perhaps you’ve got crowded teeth or crooked teeth, or simply need to correct positions due to an open bite, overbite, or crossbite—Invisalign could help you fix this.
Invisalign Cost in Ottawa
The average cost of Invisalign treatment in Ottawa can range from $2,000 to $8,000. The cost of Invisalign depends most on your individual case, as well as whether you’re under an insurance plan that covers orthodontic treatment. Some dental clinics or offices might even offer financing options or payment plans to help make Invisalign more affordable.
Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces
In some cases, patients may need traditional braces if they aren’t qualified for Invisalign. If you’re qualified for both, choosing the best option depends on your oral health needs, lifestyle preferences, and budget.
Appearance and Comfort
Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and removable, making them a discreet choice for patients who want to avoid the noticeable wires and brackets of traditional braces. They’re also more comfortable for many, as the trays are smooth and less likely to cause irritation. While regular braces can sometimes lead to discomfort due to tightening and adjustments, they’re often better suited for complex cases where significant movement is required to achieve results.
Oral Health and Hygiene
A big advantage of Invisalign is that the trays can be cleaned and removed when you eat, brush, or floss. This makes maintaining good oral health easier compared to traditional braces, which can trap food particles and make cleaning a bit tricky. With braces, you’ll need to use special tools like floss threaders to clean thoroughly, whereas Invisalign allows you to brush and floss as you normally would.
Complex Cases
While Invisalign works wonders for many patients, it may not be the best fit for complex cases. Traditional braces are often more effective when big adjustments are needed or when treating severe crowding, rotations, or bite issues. Your orthodontist will determine the right fit for you during your initial consultation.
Time and Convenience
Invisalign typically requires fewer visits to the orthodontist for adjustments, as you’ll switch trays at home every couple of weeks. At the same time, it requires discipline, since the trays are removable. Patients need to wear them 20–22 hours a day for best results. Traditional braces, on the other hand, are fixed in place, so there’s no temptation to take them out, but they require regular adjustments at the orthodontist’s office.
Cost
The overall cost of Invisalign and traditional braces can vary depending on factors like the complexity of the case and the duration of treatment. While Invisalign may be slightly more expensive in some cases, many patients find the convenience and aesthetics worth the investment.
Factors Affecting Invisalign Cost
The cost of Invisalign treatment is determined by the complexity of the case and the number of aligners required. Other factors include:
- How severe the orthodontic issues being treated are.
- The experience and qualifications of the dentist or orthodontist providing the treatment.
- The location of the dental clinic or office.
- Whether you have coverage from your insurance provider.
- Whether your dental clinic offers financing options or payment plans.
- Whether there are any ongoing discounts or promotions for Invisalign treatment at your dentist.
Am I Qualified For Invisalign?
While Invisalign works for many people, not everyone is an ideal candidate. However, you can get an idea with the official Invisalign Smile Quiz. Here’s a breakdown of what makes someone qualified for Invisalign:
Mild to Moderate Dental Issues
Invisalign is highly effective for treating mild to moderate cases. If your desired position requires significant tooth movement or you have severe bite issues, traditional braces will be a better option.
Commitment to Wearing Aligners
Invisalign aligners need to be worn for 20–22 hours per day to work effectively. If you’re disciplined and willing to stick to this routine, you’ll likely see great results. However, if you’re prone to removing them frequently or forgetting to wear them, this might not be the best option for you.
Good Oral Health
Before starting Invisalign, your teeth and gums still need to be in good condition. This means no untreated cavities or gum disease. You’ll also need to maintain excellent oral hygiene during treatment, as aligners can trap bacteria against your teeth if you don’t brush and floss properly or wash your trays.
Teenagers and Adults
Invisalign is a great choice for adults and older teenagers whose teeth have fully developed. Younger teens or children with growing jaws may require regular braces for more precise control over tooth and jaw alignment.
Ready for Responsibility
If you’re someone who can keep track of your aligners, wear them as directed, and handle the care routine (like cleaning them and keeping up with dental visits), you’re likely a great candidate.
Get Started with Invisalign with Fallowfield Dental
If you’re curious whether you’re a candidate for Invisalign and are ready to undergo the process, schedule a consultation with Fallowfield Dental to discuss your treatment options, get a personalized quote, and discuss payment options and financing plans. Start your journey to a straighter, healthier smile with Invisalign!