Many people believe that braces are expensive.
I think this sort of invites the question, “Compared to what?”
Using some averages, orthodontic treatment may be less expensive than it takes to fill your gas tank once a week. Or to buy a couple of latte’s every morning at Starbucks.
And sometimes things only seem expensive if we are not sure they are worth it. Some people may not agree, but I can argue that an attractive smile, and the psychological and social benefits that it provides, might be nearly priceless and something like a bargain at modern orthodontic fee levels.
Your orthodontist should be able to tell you at the beginning of treatment how much it will cost. There won’t be any surprises. Some pre-paid dental plans (what folks like to call “insurance”) have an orthodontic benefit for children under 18 or 19. Make sure you check your contract.
Tips for Paying for Braces
- Most orthodontists still offer monthly payment plans extended over the time of treatment with no interest or other charges. If you intend to use a plan, discuss the terms — how much per month over how many months — before treatment starts.
- Pay for treatment up front. Ask your orthodontist if he/she will give you an accounting discount since there will be less paperwork for the office to manage. Less invoicing, payment reminders mailed, etc. can save the office lots of time and money in managing your account. Many orthodontists will pass that savings through to you.
- Use your FSA (Flexible Spending Account) or HSA (Health Savings Account) to pay for your treatment. These are great benefits with tax advantages. Use them while you can.
- CareCredit is a great option to pay for your treatment in monthly installments. It basically serves as a dental credit card that you can pay off over time.
Plan Ahead!
Orthodontists often know years in advance that a child will likely need braces and/or other orthodontic treatment. An early checkup (the American Association of Orthodontists recommends one by age 7) will help you know what's coming so you can budget in advance.
In most cases, orthodontic treatment should not be recommended at the age of 7. But there are certain developing problems in the mouth that get worse over time, and eventually become very difficult to correct. Like any developmental problem, the earlier they are addressed, the better chance that they can be corrected. In those special cases, a period of treatment can make a huge difference in the future appearance and function of the mouth.
And don’t worry if your child is older than 7, as it’s never too late for a check-up!
Invest in Your Health
An investment in good oral health is paramount to your overall health and happiness. Our mouth is an important part of our life. We use it to eat, to speak, to express affection and to smile.
An attractive and healthy mouth is central to physical well-being and psychological health.
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Dr. Beckwith has offices in Westerville and Sunbury to serve patients of ALL ages. You can reach him at 614-882-5391 (Westerville) or 740-965-8700 (Sunbury) or www.beckwithortho.com.
See other resource articles from Dr. Beckwith, one of our Macaroni Kid parent partner resources, below:
After The Braces Come Off - What's Next?
How to Be a Parent of a Kid with Braces
Does My Child Need Braces?
The Secret to Getting a Great Smile!
Am I Too Old for Braces?
Understanding Your Othodontic Treatment Options
American Association of Orthodontists: What Does It Mean to You?
