If you’re looking into orthodontic treatment, you may wonder how much braces cost. While many dental insurance plans will cover at least a portion of Invisalign®, the amount they cover can vary widely. Some dental insurance plans will cover Invisalign® as they would cover traditional braces – with a set dollar amount or percentage of the total cost. However, not all dental insurance plans cover orthodontics, so it’s important to be aware of your options.
If your dental insurance plan doesn’t cover Invisalign®, there are still a few ways to make treatment affordable.
If you’re unsure whether your dental insurance plan covers Invisalign®, the best thing to do is check with them. They can tell you whether it’s covered under your plan and how much they would contribute to the treatment cost.
Keep in mind that if your insurance company does cover Invisalign®, they may have specific requirements. For example, some have a cap on how much they will reimburse for orthodontic treatment. Others may only cover orthodontic treatment if it’s considered medically necessary. So be sure to ask about any requirements or restrictions before you start treatment.
Since cosmetic braces cost more than traditional metal braces, be specific about the type of braces you’re inquiring about. Ask whether your dental insurance plan covers Invisalign® specifically.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) are accounts that let you set aside tax-free money to cover medical expenses. The great thing about using FSA funds for Invisalign® is that the money you contribute is deducted from your paycheck before taxes.
If your company offers an FSA, you can typically use it to cover many medical expenses – including braces. However, check with your FSA administrator to see if orthodontics is considered an eligible expense.
If you don’t know how much braces cost, your orthodontist should be able to help. They can provide you with an estimate of the total cost of treatment. In addition, they can work with you to develop a payment plan that fits your budget.
With braces for teens and adults becoming increasingly common, many orthodontists have flexible financing options to make Invisalign® affordable. You might be able to pay for your braces with a credit card or through a third-party lender. In addition, many orthodontists have an in-house financing plan.
If you’re worried about finding affordable braces, don’t be afraid to ask your orthodontist about their payment options. They may surprise you or offer deals that you aren’t aware of.
By using an FSA or contacting your orthodontist, you may find another way to pay for braces. Unfortunately, many dental insurance plans don’t cover the cost of Invisalign® treatment. However, it’s always a good idea to check. Some orthodontic benefits may be available to help offset the expense. In addition, many orthodontists offer in-house financing.
As an experienced orthodontist, Dr. Yazji understands that each patient has unique financial circumstances. Contact our office today to learn about affordable braces.