What to Do if You Can't Afford Invisalign in Ontario
Invisalign is rising as a popular method for teeth straightening, favoured for its ability to straighten your teeth in a discreet manner. Those seeking this orthodontic treatment wonder what options they have if they can’t afford it. Will OHIP cover Invisalign? What about dental insurance? This article will answer those questions and more. Keep reading to learn about other avenues to take if you can’t afford Invisalign.
Does OHIP cover Invisalign?
No, OHIP does not cover Invisalign or any other orthodontic procedures. In general, OHIP does not cover dental services in Ontario as it is not considered medically necessary. Furthermore, Orthodontic procedures like Invisalign are classified as cosmetic. This is why coverage for dental care is a vital aspect of private insurance.
Will My Dental Insurance Cover Invisalign?
If you purchased a private insurance plan that includes dental coverage, you’re likely wondering if your insurer will provide coverage for Invisalign. Ultimately, it will depend on your policy, so read your terms carefully. What you’ll be looking for is coverage for orthodontic treatment. Your provider might have a maximum amount they are able to cover before you need to pay out of pocket (and that’s not including any deductibles or co-pays related to your plan). If you’re unsure, reach out to your insurance provider directly about coverage. It’s always best to confirm coverage with your insurer before proceeding with any treatments you can’t afford.
If you don’t have a private insurance plan but would like to get one to cover Invisalign, reach out to one of our insurance brokers today for an instant quote. We’ll ensure you find a plan that specifically covers Invisalign, as well as any of your other medical needs.
Alternative Treatment Options
What if you don’t have private insurance, or your insurance provider doesn’t cover Invisalign? We’ll explore alternative treatment options that are either more affordable or tend to have better insurance coverage.
Braces
Metal braces are the traditional method of teeth straightening. Although they lack the discreet nature of Invisalign, braces are just as effective, if not more. The metal braces have more force to move the teeth, making them the superior option for more complex orthodontic issues. Moreover, braces are known to achieve better results than Invisalign. If you’re willing to sacrifice the discreetness, braces are an option that insurance typically covers in Ontario. For those without private insurance, the cost of braces is similar to Invisalign.
Clear Aligners from Other Brands
Invisalign is the most popular clear aligner brand in Canada, but it’s far from the only option available. Many companies have started creating clear teeth aligners at a far more affordable rate. Here are some examples:
NewSmile: With NewSmile’s clear aligners, you pay via a monthly plan of around $90-100/month. This comes with no initial down payment, making it a great option for those struggling to afford Invisalign. All consultations related to NewSmile’s clear aligners take place remotely. You’ll have a video call with a specialist to get started.
ALIGNERCO: ALIGNERCO offers all day clear aligners and night only aligners, which can be purchased through a monthly plan. Both monthly plans cost around $250/6 months, with a down payment from $400-500.
Keep in mind that these types of clear aligners are meant to treat more mild cases of unaligned teeth. If you have a more severe malalignment, metal braces will be the most effective option in aligning your teeth. Additionally, these treatment options might not be covered by your insurance.
Save and Budget for Invisalign
If you’re not interested in the available alternatives, here’s a few tactics to help you more easily afford Invisalign:
Payment Plans: Orthodontic offices offer payment plans that allow you to spread the treatment cost over a series of monthly payments. With a payment plan, you can budget the monthly cost of your Invisalign around your other regular expenses. Inquire with your orthodontist about your options.
Discount and Financing Programs: Ask your orthodontist about any discount programs available at their clinic. These are often offered to patients with low income to help them afford various dental treatments. Additionally, if your orthodontist does not offer payment plans, third-party financing options allow you to pay for treatment in installments.
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): Does your employer offer an HSA? If so, this account can cover orthodontic expenses, including Invisalign.
Talk to a Financial Advisor: Despite common belief, you don’t need to be wealthy to work with a financial advisor. A financial advisor can help you make the most of your income, enabling you to afford more expenses, such as Invisalign. Whether we’re building you an effective investment strategy or keeping more money in your pocket with tax planning, we know how to make your finances grow. We even help you save for future expenses, such as retirement. Reach out to a GRFS financial advisor to learn how we can take your income to the next level.