Braces, also known as orthodontic treatment are used to correct alignment issues, including underbites, overbites, misaligned teeth and other dental imperfections. There are two major types of braces, traditional braces and lingual braces. Traditional braces can be made from metal or clear plastic, while lingual braces are most often made from stainless steel or ceramic material that is bonded to the inside of the tooth.
The cost of braces
Unfortunately, there’s no real, hard-and-fast rule when it comes to how much are braces without insurance. It all depends on a number of factors, including your child’s age and your state. In some states, for example, orthodontic care is covered by Medicaid or CHIP and therefore free to low-income families. Conversely, some private insurances may cover only certain types of braces and not others; check with your provider before assuming you have coverage. What most parents will tell you is that they’re shocked by how much braces cost without insurance—even if they do have coverage!
Finding ways to finance your orthodontic treatment
It’s important that you know how much braces cost without insurance. And if you’re hoping to finance your orthodontic treatment, it’s essential that you find out how much braces cost of braces for kids with dental insurance or other coverage before any work is done. Once you figure out what plans are available, talk with your dentist and see which one is right for you. Many people choose flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts (HSAs) because they give them tax advantages—but some cover orthodontic treatment as well! Before diving into your financial options, be sure to understand all of your payment options so that you can pick a plan that fits both your budget and needs.
Types of payment plans available
When considering braces for kids, one of your first questions will likely be: How much do braces cost? There are several different types of payment plans available at most orthodontic offices. However, it’s important to note that a range of prices is going to be present based on where you live and how extensive you want your treatment plan to be. The price is also affected by what kind of insurance you have—if any—and whether or not you need take out a loan in order to pay for it. As with any medical procedure, there are cases when certain people will get better deals than others.
Taking care of your teeth before, during and after treatment
Once you get braces, regular care is crucial. If you skip your regularly scheduled cleanings and checkups, it’s likely your orthodontist will catch it before you do — and they’ll probably mention it when they see you next. Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush (and flossing) is ideal, but even just once will make a difference. There are several other ways to maintain good oral health while getting treated with braces. It’s important to be aware of these things so that oral hygiene doesn’t become an afterthought. Proper home care is essential for long-term results in treatment.
The Affordable Smile Program
If you have a limited budget and are looking into getting your child’s teeth straightened, it is possible. Many dental offices offer what’s called an Affordable Smile Program, in which parents can pay as they go and avoid interest on loans. These programs vary by office but generally feature no or low interest rates and payments based on a parent’s income, allowing them to save hundreds of dollars in fees over time. If you’re considering braces for your child, be sure to check with their dentist about whether they offer any programs like these that would help you save money!
