Pricing & Planning
DoesInsuranceCoverClearAligners?
Written by Dr. Judy Nguyen
Reviewed by Dr. Thao Vu
·October 28, 2026
Dental plans with orthodontic benefits usually cover clear aligners the same way they cover braces. How coverage works, what to ask your plan, and how Bloom handles insurance and Medi-Cal in Long Beach and Garden Grove.
Usually, yes. Dental plans with orthodontic coverage usually cover clear aligners the same way they cover braces, according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), though every plan sets its own amount and limits.
At Bloom, clear aligners cost $3,500 to $6,000. We accept most PPO orthodontic insurance plans and verify your benefits before treatment starts, so you know your share up front.
How Aligner Coverage Usually Works
The AAO says orthodontic insurance covers a portion or percentage of the fee, often with a specific dollar amount or lifetime cap. For aligners, that means:
- A percentage or set benefit. The plan pays part of the fee, and you pay the rest.
- A lifetime maximum. Once the plan pays its orthodontic maximum, it stops.
- Age limits. The AAO notes many plans include orthodontic coverage for children under 18 and that coverage is less common for adults.
Questions to Ask Your Plan
- Does my plan include orthodontic benefits?
- Are clear aligners covered the same as braces?
- What percentage or dollar amount does it pay, and what is the lifetime maximum?
- Is there an age limit for orthodontic coverage?
- Do I need pre-authorization?
You can also let us handle it. With your permission, our team checks these details before your first appointment.
Paying the Rest
HSA and FSA funds. The AAO says FSA and HSA funds can be used for orthodontic treatment.
Payment plans. Bloom offers low and no-interest monthly payment plans. See insurance and financing.
What the fee covers. At Bloom, the full clear aligner fee includes a reasonable number of refinements plus retainers. Our guide to aligner refinements explains what that means.
Medi-Cal and Clear Aligners
Bloom does not accept Medi-Cal. If Medi-Cal denies a patient because they do not qualify on the HLD form, Bloom can still treat them in the office with in-house payment plans.
Clear Aligners at Bloom
Dr. Thao Nguyen Vu and Dr. Judy Nguyen are board-certified orthodontists who plan aligner treatment at our Long Beach and Garden Grove offices. Your free consultation includes X-rays, records, and a treatment simulation. See how treatment works on our clear aligners page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does dental insurance cover Bloom's clear aligners?
Many plans do. Plans with orthodontic benefits usually cover aligners the same as braces. We verify your coverage before you start.
How much do clear aligners cost at Bloom?
$3,500 to $6,000, depending on your case. Insurance, HSA or FSA funds, and payment plans can lower what you pay.
Does insurance cover aligners for adults?
Sometimes. The AAO notes orthodontic coverage is less common for adults, so check your plan or let us check it.
Does Bloom take Medi-Cal for aligners?
No. If Medi-Cal denies a patient on the HLD form, Bloom can still treat them in the office with in-house payment plans.
Sources
- American Association of Orthodontists, Aligners
- American Association of Orthodontists, Payment and Insurance FAQs
- American Association of Orthodontists, Braces
- Bloom fees and insurance details (Dr. Thao Vu, 2026-10-12, 2026-10-19, 2026-10-28): Clear aligners, Insurance and financing
Want to know what your plan pays toward aligners? Book a free consultation and we will check your benefits.
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