If you’ve always wanted a straighter smile or you’ve noticed that your child might have bite misalignment issues, then you’ll likely be considering orthodontic treatment. While you can expect to achieve incredible results, you’ll also want to know how much you’ll pay for the process. Can dental insurance help minimize your out-of-pocket expenses for this kind of treatment? Read on to learn how your coverage plan might assist you when seeking orthodontic care.
Orthodontia & Dental Insurance
When it comes to dental insurance and straightening your smile, you’ll want to consider the following points:
- Insurance for minors is more common: Certain family dental coverage plans may cover a portion of the cost of braces for those under age 19, but not for adults. Even so, some premium plans might assist adults, so you’ll need to consult your provider for the details.
- Dental coverage varies significantly: While some insurance policies offer partial coverage for orthodontic care, others may be more reserved for preventive care, like checkups and cleanings.
- Half coverage is typical: If your insurance does help pay for orthodontia, it might usually cover about half of the total cost, or up to your plan’s orthodontic maximum.
- You might have a lifelong maximum: For some plans, once you’ve used up your given benefits, they won’t reset, meaning you’ll only have a certain maximum for orthodontia to work with, which can be about $1,000 or more.
- Certain services may be excluded: Your plan may help cover traditional metal braces but won’t apply to other options, such as clear aligners.
Making Your Treatment Reasonably Priced
If you’re wanting to ensure that your or your child’s orthodontic treatment can work within your budget, here are a few tips to consider:
- Look into the details of your coverage: Consult your provider or dental team to understand exactly how your policy works, that way you can maximize your benefits to the best of your ability.
- Check out other plans: When it comes time for open enrollment, you might look for an Affordable Care Act plan which might cover the majority or all of the services your family requires.
- Try alternative financing options: If insurance won’t cover the orthodontic treatment you or your child needs, try checking if you can use your HSA or FSA funds to pay the cost. Your orthodontist might even offer flexible financing to help with your expenses.
Many insurance companies can cover braces and other orthodontic services, but you’ll want to make sure you have backup plans if necessary. Speak with your dental team about your options, and they’ll be glad to help make your experience as stress-free as possible.
About the Author
Dr. Megan Hanson is a graduate of The University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston where she achieved her Doctor of Dental Surgery. She’s also a member of the American Academy of Orthodontists and has even published work in the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics and the American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics. If you wish to learn more about dental insurance and how she can straighten your smile, visit our website or give us a call at 972-727-1153.