Frequently Asked Questions - Cost
How much does Invisalign cost?
Invisalign is a premium product compared to traditional braces. It uses state of the art technology to create a series of customised aligners for each patient and has significant patient benefits. The cost of treatment is determined by the prescribing orthodontist or dentist and is based upon the complexity of treatment required and the schedule of fees charged. Invisalign treatment is usually similar or slightly more than the cost of adult ceramic braces. Many orthodontists and dentists offer flexible and affordable monthly payment plans, often with interest free options.
Does insurance cover Invisalign?
If your insurance policy has orthodontic coverage, Invisalign should be covered to a similar extent as conventional braces as Invisalign is normally prescribed for a full course of orthodontic treatment. However, as medical benefits differ significantly from policy to policy, each patient should check with their health fund.
My insurance company has not heard of Invisalign.
Invisalign is an emerging form of technology within orthodontics in Australia. It often takes insurance companies to formally recognise new technologies in their policies. Please consult your treating orthodontist or dentist to ascertain the type of treatment you will be receiving and determine their billing policies in relation to private medical insurance. Invisalign Australia can provide assistance if necessary.
Do orthodontists/dentists offer payment plans for Invisalign treatment?
Individual treating orthodontists and dentists may offer differing payment plans that may mean that the full amount does not have to be paid up front. Please ask your treating orthodontist or dentist for their payment policy.
Will there be an initial consultation fee?
In most cases, there will be an initial consultation fee charged by the orthodontist or dentist although some practices offer a free initial consultation. This price of this consultation will vary from one practice to another.
Is there a price reduction if I only require the top/bottom aligner?
The charge for Invisalign is based upon the consultations needed and the 3D modelling cost. Single arch treatment does not mean that the price will necessarily be halved from the two arch treatment cost. Please consult your treating orthodontist or dentist for their pricing policies.
Can I receive limited treatment with Invisalign?
Invisalign can be used to provide a limited form of orthodontic treatment e.g. orthodontic relapse or minor crowding cases for a lesser fee. Check with your trained orthodontist or dentist to see if this is suitable for you and what the charges will be.
Does Invisalign have a guarantee?
Invisalign is as effective at straightening teeth as traditional methods of orthodontics but largely depends upon a patient’s biology and compliance with treatment. As such, Invisalign cannot guarantee that a patient’s teeth will move exactly as predicted.
The treating orthodontist or dentist is responsible to use their experience and skill to treatment plan and monitor the appropriate treatment as it progresses. If necessary, additional treatment with Invisalign or other forms may be needed. Discuss this further with your treating orthodontist or dentist during your initial consultation.
Can I claim any rebate on Invisalign treatment?
Yes. There is a government rebate that is available to a taxpayer whose eligible net medical expenses in the year of income exceed $1,500 (net of Medicare and any health fund refund). The amount of the rebate is 20% of the excess over $1,500 but cannot exceed the amount of tax otherwise paid. The rebate is claimed when the patient lodges their annual income tax return.
For example, a patient undergoes Invisalign treatment at a cost of $6500. Assuming the patient can claim $1000 back from a private health fund and none from Medicare, the rebate would be as follows.
[($6500-$1000-$0) - $1500] x 20% = $800
