How Much Does Aspen Dental’S Invisalign Cost?
If you are considering Invisalign to straighten your teeth, you have probably heard of Aspen Dental. Aspen Dental is one of the largest dental practice groups in the United States. They have over 900 offices in 45 states. They are known for offering a wide range of services, including dentures, implants, and clear aligners like Invisalign. They also advertise heavily on TV and radio, often promoting free consultations and affordable payment plans.
But how much does Invisalign actually cost at Aspen Dental? Is it cheaper than a private orthodontist? Is the quality the same? And what are the hidden costs you should know about?
This guide will answer all your questions. We will break down the cost of Invisalign at Aspen Dental, compare it to other providers, explain their financing options, and help you decide if Aspen Dental is the right choice for your smile.
What Is Aspen Dental?
Aspen Dental is a dental support organization (DSO). That means it provides business support to affiliated dental practices. The dentists who work at Aspen Dental offices are independent professionals, but they use the Aspen Dental brand, systems, and marketing.
Aspen Dental offices offer general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, dentures, implants, and orthodontics. They are known for their convenient hours, which often include evenings and weekends. They also offer a variety of payment options, including their own in-house financing.
Key Features Of Aspen Dental
- Nationwide presence: Over 900 offices in 45 states.
- Convenience: Evening and weekend appointments available.
- Free initial consultation: Includes X-rays and a treatment plan.
- In-house financing: Through the Aspen Dental Savings Plan and third-party lenders.
- Wide range of services: From cleanings to implants to Invisalign.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost At Aspen Dental?
The cost of Invisalign at Aspen Dental varies depending on the complexity of your case, your location, and the specific treatment plan. However, based on patient reports and industry data, here is a general idea.
Average Cost Range
- Invisalign Express (minor correction): $2,500 – $4,000
- Invisalign Lite (moderate correction): $3,500 – $5,500
- Invisalign Comprehensive (complex correction): $5,000 – $7,500
These prices are for the aligners and the treatment plan. They usually include retainers. However, you should always confirm what is included in your specific quote.
Table: Estimated Invisalign Cost At Aspen Dental
| Treatment Tier | Estimated Cost Range (USD) | Treatment Time |
|---|---|---|
| Invisalign Express | $2,500 – $4,000 | 3 – 6 months |
| Invisalign Lite | $3,500 – $5,500 | 6 – 12 months |
| Invisalign Comprehensive | $5,000 – $7,500 | 12 – 24 months |
Important Note: Aspen Dental often runs promotions. These may include $500 off Invisalign, free whitening, or a free consultation. These promotions can reduce the upfront cost. Always ask about current specials.
How Does Aspen Dental Compare To Other Providers?
Is Aspen Dental cheaper or more expensive than a private orthodontist? The answer is: it depends. In some cases, Aspen Dental may be cheaper. In others, it may be more expensive. Here is a comparison.
Table: Aspen Dental vs. Private Orthodontist vs. General Dentist
| Provider Type | Average Invisalign Cost (USD) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aspen Dental | $3,500 – $7,500 | Convenient hours, financing options, free consultation | Corporate feel, high turnover of dentists, aggressive treatment recommendations |
| Private Orthodontist | $4,000 – $8,000 | Specialist expertise, personalized care, long-term relationships | Higher cost, limited office hours |
| General Dentist | $3,000 – $6,000 | Lower cost, familiar with your dental history | Less experience with complex orthodontic cases |
The Takeaway: Aspen Dental is often in the middle of the price range. They are not the cheapest, but they are not the most expensive. Their main advantages are convenience and financing. Their main disadvantage is that they are a corporate chain, which can lead to a less personalized experience.
What Factors Affect The Cost At Aspen Dental?
Several factors influence the price of Invisalign at Aspen Dental.
1. Case Complexity
This is the biggest factor. A simple case of mild crowding might require 10 aligners. A complex case involving bite correction and significant movement might require 50 or more. The more aligners you need, the higher the cost.
2. Your Location
Aspen Dental prices vary by location. An office in a rural area may charge less than an office in a major city. Rent, labor costs, and taxes are higher in cities, and those costs are passed on to patients.
3. The Dentist’s Experience
Not all Aspen Dental offices have the same level of experience with Invisalign. Some dentists are highly experienced. Others may be new to the system. The price may reflect the dentist’s confidence and skill level.
4. Additional Procedures
You may need additional procedures before or during Invisalign treatment. These add to the cost.
- X-rays and records: Sometimes included in the consultation, sometimes extra.
- IPR (Interproximal Reduction): Shaving a tiny amount of enamel between teeth to create space. Usually included.
- Attachments: Small tooth-colored bumps bonded to your teeth. Usually included.
- Extractions: If teeth need to be removed. This is an extra cost.
- Retainers: Usually included, but always ask.
- Acceledent or Propel: Devices that speed up treatment. These cost $500 to $1,500 extra.
5. The Promotions
Aspen Dental frequently runs promotions. These can significantly reduce the cost. Examples include:
- $500 off Invisalign
- Free consultation and X-rays
- Free teeth whitening with treatment
- Special financing offers
Always ask about current promotions before you sign up.
Does Insurance Cover Invisalign At Aspen Dental?
Aspen Dental accepts most major dental insurance plans. If your plan covers orthodontics, it will likely cover Invisalign. Invisalign is considered an orthodontic treatment, not a cosmetic one.
Typical Orthodontic Coverage
- Coverage Percentage: 50% of the cost.
- Lifetime Maximum: $1,000 to $2,000. This is a one-time benefit. It does not reset every year.
- Age Limits: Some plans only cover orthodontics for children under 18. Others cover adults too.
- Waiting Periods: Some plans require you to be enrolled for 6 to 12 months before you can use orthodontic benefits.
How The Math Works
Let’s say your Invisalign treatment at Aspen Dental costs $6,000. Your insurance covers 50% up to a lifetime maximum of $1,500.
- Total Cost: $6,000
- Insurance Pays: $1,500
- Your Out-of-Pocket: $4,500
If you have already used some of your orthodontic lifetime maximum, you will pay more.
Table: Example Of Insurance Coverage At Aspen Dental
| Amount | |
|---|---|
| Total Invisalign Fee | $6,000 |
| Insurance Coverage (50%) | $3,000 |
| Lifetime Maximum | $1,500 |
| Insurance Actually Pays | $1,500 |
| Your Out-of-Pocket | $4,500 |
Important Note: Aspen Dental will verify your insurance benefits during your consultation. They will give you an estimate of what your insurance will pay and what you will owe. Always confirm this with your insurance company directly.
Aspen Dental Financing Options
One of the main reasons people choose Aspen Dental is their financing options. They offer several ways to pay for Invisalign.
1. Aspen Dental Savings Plan
This is an in-house membership plan. You pay an annual fee (e.g., $99 to $199). In exchange, you get:
- Two cleanings per year
- Two exams per year
- All necessary X-rays
- A 20% discount on other treatments, including Invisalign
This is a good option if you do not have insurance and plan to get other dental work done.
2. Third-Party Financing
Aspen Dental partners with several lending companies, including CareCredit, LendingClub, and Alphaeon Credit. You can apply online or in the office. If approved, you can finance the entire cost of treatment.
- Interest-free options: Some plans offer 0% interest if you pay the full balance within a promotional period (usually 6 to 24 months).
- Extended plans: Some plans offer lower monthly payments with interest over 24 to 60 months.
Important Note: Be careful with deferred interest plans. If you do not pay the full balance within the promotional period, you may be charged retroactive interest from the date of purchase.
3. In-House Payment Plans
Some Aspen Dental offices offer their own payment plans. You pay a down payment and then monthly installments. Ask your local office for details.
4. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) And Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
Invisalign is a qualified medical expense. You can use pre-tax dollars from your FSA or HSA to pay for it. This effectively gives you a discount.
The Aspen Dental Experience: What To Expect
If you decide to get Invisalign at Aspen Dental, here is what you can expect.
Step 1: Free Consultation
You will have a free consultation. This includes X-rays, a dental exam, and a discussion of your treatment goals. The dentist will create a treatment plan and give you a quote.
Step 2: Financial Discussion
Before you start treatment, you will meet with a financial coordinator. They will explain the cost, your insurance coverage, and your payment options. They will also discuss any promotions or discounts you qualify for.
Step 3: Treatment Planning
If you decide to proceed, the dentist will take digital scans of your teeth. These scans are used to create your custom aligners.
Step 4: Aligner Fitting
You will receive your first set of aligners. The dentist or a technician will show you how to insert and remove them. You will also receive instructions on how to care for them.
Step 5: Progress Visits
You will have regular check-ins, usually every 6 to 8 weeks. The dentist will monitor your progress and give you your next sets of aligners.
Step 6: Completion And Retainers
When your treatment is complete, you will receive a set of retainers. You must wear them to maintain your new smile.
Pros And Cons Of Getting Invisalign At Aspen Dental
Before you choose Aspen Dental, consider the advantages and disadvantages.
The Pros
- Convenience: Many locations with evening and weekend hours.
- Free consultation: You can get a treatment plan and quote at no cost.
- Financing options: Multiple ways to pay, including in-house plans.
- Promotions: Frequent discounts and special offers.
- Comprehensive care: They offer all dental services under one roof.
The Cons
- Corporate feel: You may feel like a number rather than a patient.
- High turnover: Dentists may change frequently, so you may not see the same provider at each visit.
- Aggressive treatment recommendations: Some patients report being pressured into treatments they did not need.
- Variable quality: The experience can vary widely from one office to another.
- Upselling: They may try to sell you additional services like whitening or veneers.
What Do Patients Say?
We spoke to three patients about their experiences with Invisalign at Aspen Dental.
Jennifer, 34, from Ohio:
“I got Invisalign at Aspen Dental. The consultation was free, and they had a $500 off promotion. The total cost was $5,200. My insurance covered $1,500. I financed the rest through CareCredit. The treatment took 14 months. I am happy with the results. The only downside was that I saw a different dentist at almost every visit.”
Mark, 45, from Florida:
“I went to Aspen Dental for a consultation. They quoted me $7,000 for Invisalign. I thought that was high, so I got a second opinion from a private orthodontist. The orthodontist quoted me $5,500. I went with the orthodontist. I think Aspen Dental is more expensive for the same treatment.”
Lisa, 28, from Texas:
“I had a great experience at Aspen Dental. The staff was friendly, and the financing options made it affordable. I paid $4,800 for Invisalign Lite. I paid $500 down and $200 a month for 18 months. My teeth look great.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aspen Dental Invisalign cheaper than a private orthodontist?
A: Not necessarily. In some cases, Aspen Dental may be cheaper, especially with promotions. In other cases, a private orthodontist may be cheaper. It is always worth getting multiple quotes.
Q: Does Aspen Dental offer free consultations for Invisalign?
A: Yes. Aspen Dental offers a free initial consultation that includes X-rays and a treatment plan. This is a good way to get a quote without commitment.
Q: Can I use my insurance at Aspen Dental?
A: Yes. Aspen Dental accepts most major dental insurance plans. They will verify your benefits and give you an estimate of what your insurance will cover.
Q: What financing options does Aspen Dental offer?
A: Aspen Dental offers the Aspen Dental Savings Plan, third-party financing through companies like CareCredit, and in-house payment plans. They also accept FSA and HSA funds.
Q: How long does Invisalign take at Aspen Dental?
A: Treatment time depends on the complexity of your case. It can range from 3 months for minor corrections to 24 months or more for complex cases.
Q: Can I get Invisalign at Aspen Dental if I have missing teeth?
A: Yes, in many cases. Invisalign can close gaps and align your remaining teeth. However, if you have multiple missing teeth, you may need a different treatment plan, such as implants or bridges, before or after Invisalign.
Q: What happens if I am not happy with my Invisalign results at Aspen Dental?
A: Aspen Dental offers refinements for most comprehensive plans. If your teeth do not move as planned, you may be eligible for additional aligners at no extra cost. Ask about the refinement policy before you start treatment.
Conclusion
The cost of Invisalign at Aspen Dental ranges from $2,500 to $7,500, depending on the complexity of your case and your location. Aspen Dental offers convenient hours, free consultations, and multiple financing options. However, they are a corporate chain, and the quality of care can vary. They may also be more expensive than a private orthodontist. Before you commit, get multiple quotes, ask about promotions, and read the fine print on financing. With the right information, you can make a confident decision for your smile and your wallet.
Additional Resources
For more information on Invisalign and orthodontic treatment, visit the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) at aaoinfo.org. You can also learn more about Aspen Dental and their services at aspendental.com.
