How Much Do Braces Cost?
- October 2, 2020
At Lincoln Orthodontics, one question we hear the most about orthodontic treatment is, “How much will braces cost?”. There’s no straightforward answer to this because each case is different, and each of our treatment options will be different. We’ll consider the following factors to determine the price of your treatment:
- The orthodontic issues we’ll correct for you
- How long braces will be needed
- What your main treatment goals are
- If the patient has dental insurance that covers orthodontics
- Unique braces-related bite correction appliances (ie: Forsus, Herbst, or similar lab-fabricated products)
- If you have orthodontic insurance, we will file a claim on your behalf
There are a number of factors, however, that do not affect the price because we want our patients to have the treatment they both want and need:
- The type of braces you choose
- If you choose aligners/Invisalign® instead of braces
- How much coordinating it requires between our office and your dentist’s office for special or complex cases
The most important factors for determining the cost for each person’s treatment is 1. how long it will take, 2. what goals we have for the treatment results.
What does the total cost of treatment include?
There are no hidden costs or unwelcome surprises at Lincoln Orthodontics. Dr. Willett will outline everything included in the treatment plan before ever beginning the active phase of a patient’s orthodontic process. Our individualized treatment plans contain everything needed for beautiful results that last: all appointments (including emergency visits), braces or aligners, first set of retainers (bonded if appropriate and removable), planned post-treatment follow-up visits, and an oral hygiene starter pack.
Our fees reflect our expert team’s skill, the quality of the products we use, and the top-notch service we provide. Dr. Willett has years of experience using orthodontics to create healthier smiles and understands how much of an investment the braces cost is for patients and their families. She works with patients to achieve a confident smile they will enjoy for their lifetime!
What is the average cost for braces?
Even though there is no “one size fits all” answer for how much orthodontic treatment will cost, the average cost for a child can be anywhere from $1000-2500 for a first phase of treatment and maybe $2000-6000 before insurance discounts for full or comprehensive treatment. Adult treatment can also be very limited and sit in the $1000-25000 range but the more complex the treatment or longer it takes, could be towards $6000 if something more invasive like extractions or surgery are recommended.The total cost will depend on the individual patient’s specific needs and the factors mentioned above and will also change if there is orthodontic insurance to offset the out of pocket costs.
Dental insurance and orthodontic treatment
Some dental insurance plans will cover orthodontic treatment, but the coverage rules and policies are often confusing. Our team has many years of experience working with insurance companies, and we do everything we can to help patients receive the maximum coverage.
Dr. Willett will base your customized treatment plan on your unique dental health needs and her professional opinion of your situation. We won’t recommend treatment based on what treatment options your insurance will cover. Instead, we’ll give you a plan that will best address your needs and goals.
Before a patient sees Dr. Willett for a consultation and receives a diagnosis and treatment plan, those with dental insurance could check with their provider to see their policy limits for orthodontic treatment. Plan and bring your insurance information with you to your consultation, and they can look into what your plan covers while you are here in the office.
As a courtesy to our patients, our team will complete and provide you all insurance claims forms.
If insurance will not cover treatment, can the cost be tax deducted?
If Dr. Willett believes that braces are medically necessary, the dental health care costs associated with them may be tax-deductible like by payment with an FSA or HSA card.
Will Medicaid cover the cost of braces?
If your doctor believes braces are medically necessary for you, Medicaid may cover your treatment costs. To learn more about this possibility, visit http://www.medicaid.gov/. It is essential to ask about the percentage of coverage and the lifetime maximum before proceeding with treatment.
Beautiful smiles are worth the investment at Lincoln Orthodontics
Braces are about more than improving the outward appearance of your smile. Oral health plays a vital role in total body health, and misaligned teeth can increase your risk of cavities, tooth decay, pain, and soreness in your head and neck, gum disease, among other things. Although orthodontic treatment can be a significant investment, it’s one that can keep you confident and healthy for a lifetime.
When it comes to something as important as your smile, you shouldn’t make your decision based only on price. We all want to find a good deal, but make sure you choose an orthodontist based on their skill and experience and how comfortable you feel with their spearheading your treatment. You’ll spend quite a bit of time visiting your orthodontist’s office throughout treatment, so it is essential to pick a practice that feels warm, welcoming, and comfortable. At Lincoln Orthodontics, we’ll give you a positive and stress-free orthodontic experience, from the first appointment to the last. We believe everyone should have access to high-quality, affordable orthodontic care, and work hard to ensure this for every patient.
To learn more about beautiful smiles to fit every budget, get in touch with us today to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Willett!
