When your child’s orthodontist recommends braces for their teeth, there is a good chance the reaction will be either excitement or uncertainty. Some children and teens can’t wait to wear multi-colored braces while others fear what their peers will say. No matter how your child reacts to the news, it’s important as a parent that you do not put off their treatment but move forward immediately, especially if you have dental insurance. Keep reading to learn why the premium you pay each month can help you save on your child’s orthodontics.
Will Dental Insurance Cover the Cost of Orthodontics?
Before determining how much is covered, it’s important to identify whether your plan includes orthodontic services. These might include traditional braces, clear aligners, and retainers.
Before moving forward with treatment, you’ll want to make sure that your plan offers coverage for these types of services. Otherwise, you may be facing an expensive bill in the future.
Once you determine that your plan does include orthodontics as a covered form of treatment, you’ll need to find out if there are any limits or exclusions. While some only provide a maximum amount of money that can be spent on braces, others dictate who is eligible for treatment based on their age (i.e., patients 19 years of age and younger).
Why You Should Pursue Treatment Now
Insurance companies who do provide coverage for orthodontics may agree to pay up to 50% of the total cost. This kind of savings can be monumental for families; however, waiting too long to start treatment can put you at risk of paying more. A few of the reasons you don’t want to put off your child’s need for braces include:
- The longer they wait, the worse their dental condition can become. This can lead to worsening symptoms, declining oral health, and costlier treatment in the future.
- Your available benefits may only be good for one calendar year. Waiting to start treatment may put you at risk of losing any funds provided by your dental insurance company, resulting in you having to meet your deductible before receiving any additional savings from your insurer.
- Before moving forward with orthodontics, your child will require a consultation and examination from their orthodontist. If problems like dental decay or gum disease are evident, additional care will be necessary before braces can be applied. By starting the process early, you can still get the most out of your dental insurance plan and make sure your child’s oral health is in better shape for their upcoming orthodontic treatment.
As a parent, you want what is best for your child. When learning they need braces, you want to do everything you can to ensure they receive the highest level of care possible. With the help of your dental insurance benefits, you’ll be able to remain focused on the health of your child’s smile and receive substantial savings along the way.
About the Practice
Treehouse Orthodontics consists of several orthodontists who are highly skilled in realigning smiles and improving oral and overall health. Offering affordable care to patients living in Western Massachusetts, we are pleased to be in-network with many dental insurance plans. Not only does this make it easier for individuals to afford the cost of braces, but it also reduces the stress parents often experience when learning their child needs orthodontic treatment. If you have questions about your plan and whether it includes coverage for metal braces, clear aligners, or retainers, visit our website or call one of our offices to speak to a member of our team.