Orthodontic treatment is an essential investment in your oral health and overall well-being. Whether you need to correct misaligned teeth, address bite issues, or want to improve the appearance of your smile, orthodontic care can have a significant impact on your confidence and quality of life. However, financing orthodontic treatment is an essential consideration for many patients and families.
The cost of braces, aligners, and other orthodontic services can vary widely, and without proper planning, these expenses can become overwhelming. Understanding and implementing practical steps and strategies to save for orthodontic care ensures you or your loved ones receive the necessary treatment without stress or financial strain.
Understanding the Cost of Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatments vary in type and complexity, each with its own associated costs. Beyond the type of appliance used, several factors can influence the overall cost of orthodontic treatment, including:
- Severity of Your Case: The complexity of your orthodontic issues can significantly impact the cost, as more severe cases often require longer treatment and more complex interventions.
- Treatment Duration: Longer treatment times generally result in higher costs due to additional appointments and adjustments.
- Location: Just like the cost of living, where you live can affect the price of orthodontic care. Urban areas with a higher cost of living typically have higher treatment costs.
Exploring Your Insurance Coverage Options
Insurance can play a significant role in reducing the financial burden of orthodontic treatment. Dental insurance policies vary in terms of coverage, and while some plans offer substantial coverage, others may provide limited or no benefits for orthodontic care. To maximize your benefits and avoid unexpected costs, take the following steps:
- Review Your Policy: Carefully read through your dental insurance policy to understand the specifics of your orthodontic coverage. Look for details on covered services, exclusions, and limitations.
- Contact Your Insurance Provider: Reach out to your insurance company directly to ask questions and clarify any uncertainties. Ask about pre-authorization requirements, coverage percentages, and any out-of-pocket costs you will have to cover.
- Contact an AAO orthodontist: When you visit an AAO orthodontist for a consultation, they can oftentimes provide you with an estimate of what your insurance will cover.
Saving Strategies for Orthodontic Care
Saving for orthodontic treatment can be a significant financial endeavor, but with careful planning and smart strategies, you can make it more manageable. Here are some effective saving strategies to help you prepare for the cost of orthodontic care:
Using HSAs and FSAs
HSAs, Health Savings Accounts, and FSAs, Flexible Spending Accounts, are types of savings accounts that let you set aside money on a pre-tax basis to pay for qualified medical expenses, including orthodontic treatment. Money set aside throughout the year is a salary you do not have to pay taxes on. By using untaxed dollars in an HSA or FSA to help pay for your orthodontic treatment, you save money!
Additionally, one of the AAO’s top priorities in federal advocacy is the Congressional expansion of patients’ rights to use FSAs. The AAO is working to promote the passage of the federal RAISE Act, which would significantly increase the annual contribution amount that families can make to their FSA.
Other Financing Options for Orthodontics
Even with diligent saving, orthodontic treatment can still be a significant financial commitment. Fortunately, several financing options are available to help make the cost more manageable.
Many orthodontic practices offer in-house financing plans that allow patients to spread the cost of treatment over time. These plans make each installment smaller and more manageable, allowing you to pay for treatment on a monthly basis instead of all at once.
You may also be able to utilize third-party financing options, such as CareCredit, to cover the cost of your treatment. CareCredit is a popular healthcare credit card that offers financing for medical and dental expenses, providing long- and short-term financing options.
Discuss Your Care Costs with an AAO Orthodontist
While paying for orthodontic care can be daunting, the experts at AAO are here to help. Our orthodontists offer a variety of payment and financing options to ensure everyone can access high-quality orthodontic treatment. Find an AAO orthodontist near you with our Find an Orthodontist tool to begin discussing your treatment and financing options. With a complimentary orthodontic exam, you can plan for upcoming orthodontic expenses for you or your child.
