Worried About the Cost of Braces for Your Kids? Here are Some Solutions

As a parent, you take every precaution to ensure your children have the best oral health. What can you do, though, if two or more of your kids need braces to correct their bite? While the thought of this can leave you feeling overwhelmed, there is help available. Read on to learn about the different payment options for braces.

How Much Do Braces Cost?

The first step to initiating the treatment your children need is to visit your local orthodontist for a consultation. While there, each of your kids can undergo an examination to evaluate the status of their jaw and teeth. Then, a treatment protocol can be developed to correct their bite issues.

Based on your children’s specific needs, the cost will be calculated for straightening their teeth. Typically, treatment with braces can range from $3,000 to $7,000 per person.

Payment Options for Braces

There are several routes available to pay for braces. It will ultimately come down to such factors as the type of coverage you have and your budget.

Option #1 – A Percentage Plan

The most common way for dental insurance companies to pay for braces is by percentage with a lifetime maximum. Under this structure, insurance providers will typically pay 20% down on the procedure and 50% of the costs over the duration of the treatment time.

That leaves you responsible for the remaining balance. The good news is you don’t have to pay it at once. Instead, you can make monthly payments to settle the remaining balance.

Option #2 – A Managed Care Plan

A managed care plan includes a fixed co-pay, which is usually between $1,000 and $1,200. With this option, your dental insurance provider typically pays the remaining balance.

Option #3 – CareCredit

If coming up with the initial payment to start the treatment process is difficult, then an alternative option is to apply for CareCredit. It provides a low-to-no-interest way to cover some of the out-of-pocket cost of your children’s orthodontic care.

With payment installment agreements that can span as long as 24 months, you won’t have to worry about shelling out as much money up front.

Post-Treatment Care of Teeth

Once the details of paying for braces is ironed-out, the next step is to make sure your investment is secured. Here are some tips for maintaining your children’s results:

• Wear the Retainer Properly – One of the main reasons for orthodontic regression is a failure to wear a retainer properly. So be sure your children understand to maintain their results, they’ll need to adhere to the instructions provided by the orthodontist.
• Perform Excellent Oral Hygiene – You don’t want your children to have straight teeth that are subject to decay. Therefore, it’s vital for them to brush and floss their teeth at least two times a day.
• Use Mouthwash for Extra Fortification – While rinsing with mouthwash isn’t a must, it serves as an excellent supplement to your children’s oral health regimen. By flushing the mouth, it aids in removing harmful bacteria.

Now that you know how to make orthodontic treatment with braces more affordable, and the best ways to ensure its success, reach out to your local orthodontist to schedule a consultation today.

About the Author

Dr. Reema Dhingra earned her dental degree from Tufts School of Dental Medicine. She then went on to receive her Orthodontic Certificate from Tufts School of Orthodontics. Dr. Dhingra helps kids enjoy healthier and more aesthetically-pleasing smiles by placing braces at New England Kids, and she can be reached for more information through her website.