Does Dental Insurance Cover Invisalign and Braces in Canada?
If you're an adult in Canada considering straightening your teeth, you're probably wondering: Does dental insurance cover Invisalign? Or maybe you're looking for dental insurance that covers Invisalign for adults, or trying to find out if braces are covered by dental insurance at all.
Navigating dental insurance plans and understanding what’s actually covered—especially when it comes to orthodontic dental care services like Invisalign, braces, or retainers—can be overwhelming. Here’s a helpful guide tailored to answer all your key questions.
Are Braces Covered by Dental Insurance?
Yes, dental insurance can cover braces, but the level of coverage depends on your specific plan. Most group insurance plans through employers may include orthodontic coverage for children, and occasionally for adults too. However, individual dental insurance with orthodontic coverage is less common and may involve waiting periods or partial reimbursements.
Key Tips:
- Check for maximum lifetime coverage for orthodontics (e.g., $1,500–$3,000)
- Coverage often applies to traditional metal bracesbut may exclude cosmetic alternatives like Invisalign.
- Pre-authorization from the insurance company is often required.
Read More: Top 5 Types of Teeth Orthodontic Braces
Does Dental Insurance Cover Invisalign?
In many cases, dental insurance does not fully cover Invisalign, especially for adults. Invisalign is often considered a “cosmetic” treatment, which may limit your benefits. However, this is slowly changing as more insurance providers begin to recognize Invisalign as a viable orthodontic treatment.
Still, does dental insurance cover Invisalign for everyone? Not always. But if your plan includes orthodontic services, there's a chance you could get partial coverage.
Dental Insurance That Covers Invisalign for Adults
Adults often have a harder time finding coverage for Invisalign. If you're searching for dental insurance that covers Invisalign for adults, focus on plans that:
- Include orthodontic care regardless of age.
- Mention Invisalign or “clear aligners” specifically.
- Offer at least partial reimbursement (usually 50%).
Plans from providers like Sun Life, Manulife, or Blue Cross may offer options, but be sure to read the fine print. If you're buying individual dental insurance with orthodontic coverage, confirm whether adult orthodontics (and Invisalign) are included before signing up.
Read More: Does Dental Insurance Cover Braces Cost?
Does Insurance Cover Retainers?
Retainers are often required after completing treatment with braces or Invisalign. So, does insurance cover retainers?
In most cases, yes—retainers are covered under orthodontic benefits, but usually only if they’re part of your initial treatment plan. Replacements may not be covered. It’s important to clarify this with your insurance provider ahead of time.
What About the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
Yes, as of 2025, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) does cover limited orthodontic services, including braces and Invisalign, but only under specific conditions.
Read More: Orthodontic Insurance
CDCP Orthodontic Coverage Details
- Eligibility: Coverage is available to children under 18who meet strict medical criteria. The condition must be deemed a severe and functionally handicapping malocclusion, as assessed by the Modified Handicapping Labio-Lingual Deviation (HLD) Index. This index evaluates the severity of dental misalignment and its impact on oral function.
- Preauthorization Required: Orthodontic treatmentsmust be preauthorized by the CDCP. This process involves submitting documentation to demonstrate the medical necessity of the treatment.
- Coverage Limitations: There are maximum spending limitsfor orthodontic services under the CDCP. The plan may cover a portion of the treatment costs, but patients might need to pay any additional charges directly to the provider.
- Cosmetic Treatments Not Covered: Orthodontic treatments pursued solely for cosmetic reasons, such as elective Invisalign for adults, are not covered under the CDCP.
Nest Step:
If you believe your child qualifies for orthodontic coverage under the CDCP:
- Consult with an Orthodontist: Schedule an appointment to assess whether your child's condition meets the medical criteria for coverage.
- Submit a Preauthorization Request: Work with your orthodontist to submit the necessary documentation to the CDCP for approval.
- Understand Potential Costs: Be prepared for possible out-of-pocket expenses, as the CDCP may not cover the full cost of treatment.
For more detailed information, refer to the our page: CDCP coverage.
Read More: Kid Dental Clinic
How to Maximize Your Dental Insurance for Invisalign or Braces
If you’re looking to get Invisalign treatment or braces in Canada, here are smart ways to make it more affordable:
- Use an HCSA (Health Care Spending Account) if you have one—many employers offer this.
- Look for bundled treatment plans that include post-treatment retainers and follow-ups.
- Choose clinics like York Orthodontics that offer direct billing to insurance and in-house payment plans.
- Ask for a predetermination letter from your orthodontist to send to your insurer.
- Consider financing options if insurance coverage falls short.
Final Thoughts: Your Next Step Toward a Confident Smile
Finding the right dental insurance plan that covers Invisalign or braces—especially as an adult—requires research, but it's not impossible. While CDCP coverage does not currently support orthodontic services, many individual dental insurance plans with orthodontic coverage can help offset costs, at least partially.
Whether you’re comparing dental insurance plans, wondering does insurance cover retainers?, or looking for Invisalign for adults in Canada, it’s crucial to talk to an experienced provider who can guide you.
At York Orthodontics, we specialize in Invisalign treatment, braces, and comprehensive orthodontic dental care services for patients of all ages. Our team can help you understand your insurance coverage and work with you to create a flexible, affordable treatment plan tailored to your needs.
FAQs
As of now, CDCP does not cover orthodontic services, including braces, Invisalign, or retainers. The plan currently focuses on preventive and basic dental care such as cleanings, fillings, and extractions. If you need orthodontic treatment, you’ll need to explore private dental insurance or pay out of pocket.
There is no official confirmation yet, but the government has indicated that CDCP may expand in future phases. However, at this time, Invisalign and other orthodontic dental care services are not included. Keep an eye on government updates or speak with your dental provider about coverage options.
Some private dental insurance plans do cover Invisalign for adults, but coverage is typically limited and depends on your specific policy. Many plans treat Invisalign as a cosmetic procedure, so only a portion (or none) may be reimbursed. Look for plans with orthodontic benefits that specifically include adult treatment and clear aligners.
Yes—retainers are usually covered if they are part of an approved orthodontic treatment plan (braces or Invisalign). However, if you lose or break your retainer and need a replacement, many insurance policies will not cover it. Always check your policy details or consult your orthodontist’s office to confirm.
Dental insurance typically covers routine care like cleanings, exams, and fillings. Orthodontic coverage is a separate benefit that pays for treatments like braces or Invisalign. Not all dental insurance plans include orthodontic services, especially for adults—so it's important to find a plan that specifically includes orthodontic benefits if you’re considering Invisalign or braces.
Yes, many dental insurance plans do cover braces, especially for children.
For adults, coverage is less common and often limited or partial.
Check your plan for orthodontic benefits and age restrictions.
Sometimes.
Insurance may partially cover Invisalign if your plan includes orthodontic benefits.
However, many plans treat it as cosmetic, especially for adults.
Always check if clear aligners are specifically included.