Do you have a son or daughter in need of braces? According to the American Dental Association, close to 4 million children and teens get orthodontics each year. As a parent, you want the best for your child, especially when it comes to their health. However, you’re also probably wondering about the cost of their treatment. Additionally, you may be curious about whether or not your dental insurance will be able to cover orthodontics. Read on to learn the answers as well as why you shouldn’t wait to get braces for your loved one!
Does Insurance Cover Braces?
Thankfully, your dental insurance will be able to partially cover your child’s treatment. In fact, dental insurance for braces may be required in some states. Specifically, most insurance plans will cover treatment for dependents under the age of 19. However, in some cases, insurance will help out with the cost of adult braces as long as the reason for treatment isn’t purely cosmetic. Without dental insurance, your child’s braces could cost $6,000 or even more, but coverage will allow you to minimize your out of pocket spending while maximizing the benefits from your provider.
When Should My Child Get Braces?
It’s best not to wait. This is for a variety of reasons, including your child’s health. While they are younger, their jawbone and teeth can still be easily shifted, typically making the treatment easier compared to adult cases. Additionally, an aligned jaw and straight teeth help your loved one grow and develop, decreasing the risk of issues like lisps or low self-esteem.
However, another reason to get your son or daughter braces as soon as possible is to save money! Your dental insurance has an annual maximum, which is the most that your provider is willing to spend on dental care in one year. Once the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, any unused benefits are reset and lost forever. That said, starting your child’s braces before the end of the year will help you use up your full maximum without leaving any benefits on the table in 2021. As an added advantage, starting now and spreading the treatment across calendar years may allow you to access a new set of benefits for your child, helping you save even more money.
Are you ready to help your child achieve a straight set of teeth and save money at the same time? Remember not to wait! Contact your orthodontist to take advantage of your dental insurance and give your son or daughter a reason to smile.
Meet the Orthodontist
Dr. Stan Drabik is a friendly and caring orthodontist who takes pride in boosting the confidence, health, and appearance of his young patients. He is in-network with Excellus and Delta Dental, but he also has dental financing available for those without insurance. If you have any questions, he can be reached through his website or by phone at either of his Webster or Rochester locations.