Are Aligners Covered By Insurance in Illinois?

Dental insurance coverage is a big factor when considering orthodontic treatment options. With the rising popularity of aligner treatments, the question of insurance coverage has become more relevant than ever. Are aligners covered by dental insurance in Illinois? What are your financial options for a straighter, healthier smile? Let’s explore some answers to these questions.

What Are Aligners?

An aligner, often referred to as a clear aligner, is a dental appliance that can sometimes serve as a less visible alternative to braces. It is a clear, plastic mold of your teeth that can be worn to gently straighten them. Aligners serve as a discreet, comfortable, and effective option for many patients seeking orthodontic treatment.

Understanding Dental Insurance Coverage

Dental insurance coverage can vary widely from one plan to another. Review your specific policy to determine the extent of your orthodontic coverage. In Illinois, as in many other states, dental insurance typically falls into two categories: traditional dental insurance and orthodontic insurance.

Traditional Dental Insurance

Traditional dental insurance usually covers preventive and diagnostic services, such as routine check-ups, cleanings, and X-rays, as well as restorative procedures like fillings and extractions. These plans may also cover a portion of orthodontic treatment costs in some cases, but this is not guaranteed.

Orthodontic Insurance

Orthodontic insurance is a separate type of coverage designed explicitly for orthodontic treatment, including braces and clear aligners. These policies provide more comprehensive coverage for orthodontic services.

Coverage for Aligners in Illinois

Illinois dental insurance providers often have specific coverage limitations for orthodontic treatments. Here are some key factors to consider:

Age Limit

Many dental insurance plans limit orthodontic coverage to individuals under a certain age. Typically, coverage is more readily available for children and teenagers.

Orthodontic Waiting Period

Some policies have waiting periods before they provide orthodontic coverage. You may need to wait for a specific period after purchasing the plan before becoming eligible for orthodontic benefits.

Pre-Authorization

In some cases, insurance providers may require pre-authorization before starting orthodontic treatment, meaning you’ll need to obtain approval from your insurance company before proceeding with aligner therapy.

Alternative Funding Options

If your dental insurance doesn’t provide sufficient coverage for clear aligners, don’t worry. There are other financing options that you may be able to explore:

Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)

These accounts allow you to use pre-tax dollars to pay for orthodontic treatment, potentially reducing your out-of-pocket costs.

Monthly Payment Plans

Many dental and orthodontic providers offer flexible payment plans that can help you spread the cost of treatment over several months, making it more manageable for your budget.

Orthodontic Discount Plans

Some organizations offer discount plans that can provide substantial savings on orthodontic treatments, including clear aligners.

CareCredit

This is a healthcare financing credit card that allows you to cover expenses related to dental and orthodontic treatment, with convenient monthly payments.

Contact Smile League Dental in Joliet

At Smile League Dental, one of our primary missions is to make dental care more affordable. If you have questions about getting aligners in Joliet, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our knowledgeable staff is happy to help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile without breaking your budget. You can reach us at 815-782-6243.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Aligners

What Are Dental Aligners?

Dental aligners are clear, removable orthodontic devices designed to gradually move teeth into proper alignment. They are custom-made using digital impressions of a patient’s teeth and are typically worn in a series, with each aligner making small adjustments over time. Popular aligner systems include Invisalign® and similar clear aligner brands offered through dental and orthodontic practices.

How Do Dental Aligners Work?

Dental aligners work by applying controlled, gentle pressure to specific teeth. Patients usually wear each set of aligners for one to two weeks before switching to the next set in the series. Over the course of treatment, the teeth progressively shift into their desired positions. For optimal results, aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day.

Are Dental Aligners Effective?

Yes, dental aligners are effective for treating many common orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. However, they may not be suitable for all cases, particularly those involving severe misalignment or complex bite problems. A consultation with a dentist or orthodontist is necessary to determine candidacy.

How Long Does Aligner Treatment Take?

Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of the case. Mild alignment issues may be corrected in as little as six months, while more moderate cases often take 12 to 18 months. Your dental provider will outline an estimated treatment timeline during your initial evaluation.

Are Dental Aligners Comfortable?

Most patients find dental aligners more comfortable than traditional braces. While some pressure or mild discomfort is common when switching to a new aligner, it typically subsides within a few days. The smooth plastic material also reduces irritation to the cheeks and gums compared to metal brackets and wires.

Can I Eat and Drink With Aligners In?

Aligners should be removed before eating or drinking anything other than water. Eating with aligners in place can damage or stain them and may trap food particles against the teeth, increasing the risk of cavities. Patients should brush their teeth before reinserting aligners after meals.

How Do I Clean My Aligners?

Aligners should be cleaned daily using a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water. Some manufacturers also recommend special cleaning crystals or solutions. Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic, and avoid toothpaste, which may be too abrasive.

Are Dental Aligners Noticeable?

Dental aligners are designed to be discreet. Because they are clear and fit snugly over the teeth, most people will not notice them during normal conversation. This makes aligners a popular choice for adults and professionals concerned about aesthetics.

What Happens After Treatment Is Complete?

After completing aligner treatment, patients are usually required to wear a retainer to maintain their results. Retainers prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions and are a critical part of long-term orthodontic success.