Over 3.5 million American kids fit braces each year, making orthodontic treatment more of a rite of passage for most teens and young adults. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends parents schedule an orthodontic exam for their kids once their permanent teeth start come in, at around age 7.
As with most parents, the mention of the fact that your child needs braces may bring anxiety and stress regarding the cost of treatment. According to a 2018 survey by the American Dental Association, the average cost of orthodontics is $4,500 to $6,000. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce this price, minimize out-of-pocket costs or pay less over time.
Here are seven ways to find local affordable braces for your child.
1. Check Insurance Coverage
Health insurance and dental coverage may not typically cover straightening teeth for cosmetic reasons. However, most insurers are open to partially or fully cover medically-related corrective brace procedures. You can consult your insurance agent to find out if your policy can cover the costs of the orthodontic treatment. You may also need to find an orthodontic office in Hanover, PA, that accepts your insurance plan.
2. Set Up a Flexible Spending Account or Health Savings Account
HSAs and FSAs are popular benefits options that employers give to their staff. Tax-free income from your paycheck goes into the accounts where you can use the funds for co-payments, co-insurance, deductibles to cover some of the brace costs. Each FSA or HSA has its stipulations, and it may be wise to educate yourself on the terms and conditions.
3. Avoid Getting Fancy
Some brace treatment options, such as clear aligners or lingual braces, may attract a higher price tag. You can keep the cost low by opting for traditional metal braces. While your child may not adore the bracket and wires, these local affordable braces are just as effective and less costly.
4. Shop Around
Orthodontics cost may vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the condition, type of orthodontic device, skills of the orthodontist, location, and many more. Visiting various orthodontic offices in Hanover, PA, in search of local affordable braces seems like a logical idea.
5. Inquire About Discounts and Promotions
Though you may not find them advertised, most orthodontic practices provide special offers and discounts at particular times of the year. You may receive family member discounts, referral discounts, and special offers. Don’t shy off from inquiring about promotions available to help you lower the costs.
6. In-House Financing Options
You may also find flexible repayment plans at the Hanover orthodontist. Orthodontic offices partner with financial lenders to provide low to zero-interest financing options. You can utilize the in-house plans to have your kid’s teeth straightened, stretching the payments out over a longer period.
7. Assistance Programs
Most states operate dental assistance programs that may help low-income families receive the care they need. Check if the local offices partner with the State or non-profit organizations to support brace treatment for corrective procedures.
Your child may require to wear orthodontic devices to attain a straight smile. Now that you have reviewed the options available for local affordable braces, finding the right orthodontist may not be that scary. To find out the discounts, insurance, and financing options accepted at David Ross Orthodontics, contact us today.
