Considering Braces? Discover Affordable Options with Orthodontic Insurance
Braces can be a game-changer for you or your child’s smile, but concerns about the cost often loom large. Without insurance, the average expense for braces ranges from $5,000 to $6,000 and can even reach up to $13,000, particularly if additional dental work is required before orthodontic treatment.
If you’re seeking ways to make orthodontic care more affordable, supplemental orthodontic insurance may be the solution. Here are four valuable insights into supplemental orthodontic insurance to help you decide if it’s right for you:
1. Understanding Your Insurance Benefits:
– For adults, many health and dental insurance plans don’t fully cover orthodontic care. Some may contribute up to 50% of the cost, while others limit coverage to orthodontic care related to injury or disease.
– For children under 18, only some plans cover part of the cost if a dental professional deems braces medically necessary. Costs vary widely based on public or private health plans.
– “Medically necessary” braces are usually associated with oral surgery, such as repairing a broken jaw or facial bones. It may also encompass cleft palate surgery in children. The Affordable Care Act mandated “medically necessary” orthodontic care but left it to individual states to define this term.
2. Coverage for Orthodontic Procedures:
Supplemental orthodontic insurance can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses for braces. The amount of coverage depends on the plan, with some offering up to 50% coverage. Most plans also have a lifetime maximum for the duration of your orthodontic care.
3. Explore Orthodontic Options:
Your orthodontic choices have expanded beyond traditional metal braces, making it essential to understand the various options and price points. These include:
– Metal braces (Average cost: $3,000 to $7,000)
– Ceramic braces (Average cost: $4,000 to $8,500)
– Lingual braces (Average cost: $5,000 to $13,000)
– Aligners or invisible braces (Average cost: $1,000 to $8,500)
Consult your orthodontist to determine the most suitable choice, treatment plan, and expected duration for your specific case.
4. Request an Estimate:
To avoid bill-related surprises, you can request an estimate from your orthodontist, allowing you to clarify your out-of-pocket costs. Dentists can submit a pre-estimate to outline the potential expenses, helping you get a realistic idea of your financial commitment. Keep in mind that charges may exceed the estimate if additional services become necessary, but supplemental orthodontic insurance can significantly reduce the overall cost.
Don’t let concerns about the cost deter you from achieving a beautiful, healthy smile. Supplemental orthodontic insurance can help make orthodontic care more affordable and accessible, providing a reason to smile brighter.
