The cost for Invisalign varies across the board, depending on the severity of treatment and the experience of the doctor. Orthodontists typically charge between $4000 and $8000 for Invisalign treatment, while dentists charge between $3000 and $6000 (sometimes less with a promotion). Payment options are usually available, typically running about $150 to $200 a month. Some offices may offer lower monthly payments. What’s important to keep in mind is that the lower the treatment costs are, the greater the chances that you won’t achieve the results you’re looking for. Deeply discounted costs are usually offered by dental offices, not orthodontists. Also, important to note is that in these cases, what they don’t tell you about are hidden expenses like additional dental work that needs to be performed beforehand.
Differences Between Dentists and Orthodontists
There is a significant difference between the level of education and experience a dentist has compared to an orthodontic specialist. All dentists and orthodontists graduate from a dental school, however, from there, orthodontists take on additional education and comprehensive training in order to specialize in the art of straightening teeth.
Only the Best Become Orthodontists
Following dental school, only the best students are qualified to continue their education toward specializing in orthodontics. Only 5 out of hundreds of students who apply to orthodontic residency programs are accepted. Once they are accepted, orthodontists go through an additional 2 to 3 years of comprehensive, full-time training that concentrates on orthodontia including bite issues, straightening teeth, braces and tooth movement. A doctor can only earn the status of “orthodontist” if they have successfully completed an extensive residency program.
Why Choose an Orthodontist for Invisalign Treatment?
Because orthodontists have a better understanding of treatment solutions and how to avoid complications. In addition, orthodontists are better suited to make personalized recommendations and to notice things that a dentist may overlook. Another important fact is that thanks to their additional training, orthodontists can achieve the desired results much faster.
Dentists and Invisalign Treatment
A lot of regular dentists don’t have additional training and if they do, it’s generally via a short, 1 to 2-day Invisalign certification course/workshop. The problem with these courses is the lack of extensive testing and examinations required to learn the practice in depth. In other words, they only gain a superficial understanding, not enough to accurately provide the best possible treatment for their patients. Because of their lack of experience, the results of treatment can take a lot longer to achieve.
When it comes to your teeth, it only makes sense to get the best treatment. Why risk a beautiful smile and health by seeking treatment from someone with insufficient knowledge? You only have one set of teeth and having to deal with problems that are the result of bad orthodontic care will be disappointing, delay results and will definitely add to the costs of treatment.
At E&S Orthodontics, we specialize in orthodontics, and we have the in-depth knowledge and experience necessary to help our patients by offering them our years of expert experience, competitive costs and exceptional results.
