By admin,
Do you have a child between the ages of 8 and 14? Are you beginning to wonder about the cost of braces?
Children generally begin to need braces when they have lost most of their primary teeth and the majority of their adult teeth have grown in. Your pediatric dentist may refer you to an orthodontist, who can let you know if braces are necessary.
How much do braces cost, and how can you afford them?
Let’s take a look.
1. How Much Do Braces Cost?
Generally, families in the United States pay between $5,000 and $6,000 for braces.
The actual braces prices, however, will vary greatly depending on which region you live in. You’ll also find some variation when it comes to types of braces. Generally, braces are less expensive in rural regions than they are in big cities.
Traditional wire braces, for example, are usually the least expensive. You will spend between $4,000 and $7,000 on them. Ceramic braces will cost a bit more, averaging between $4,000 and $8,000.
Invisalign and lingual braces are the most expensive braces options. They are often worn by adults who don’t want their orthodontic gear to be visible. Smile-conscious teens may prefer them as well.
Invisalign can cost between $4,000 and $7,400. And lingual braces can run as high as $10,000.
2. Why Choose Different Types of Braces?
Metal braces are the least expensive type. They are very popular with teenagers, who like being able to switch out the colors of their rubber bands.
Traditional braces are, however, the most visible. Those who are self-conscious about their smile may be willing to spend the extra money on more expensive braces.
Ceramic braces are a little more expensive and a little less noticeable. The brackets on these are clear or tooth-colored. Some may even come with clear wires.
Ceramic braces require a bit more care because stains become more noticeable. The wearer should have the maturity to take good care of their teeth before you make the investment.
Lingual braces are placed on the inside of the teeth. They are the only type of braces that is completely invisible to those you’re talking to.
One negative aspect of lingual braces is that they’re quite expensive. They can also be uncomfortable at first and cause a temporary lisp. Lingual braces can also be tricky to clean.
Invisalign braces are popular among older wearers. These clear, plastic aligners look like a mouthguard. They get removed and replaced every two weeks as you progress toward a straighter smile.
While they are barely visible, Invisalign braces are somewhat pricey compared to other braces. And while there are no restrictions on food and drink, you’ll need to remove them every time you eat. Invisalign braces also require a bi-monthly trip to your orthodontist.
3. How Can I Afford Braces?
Before investing in braces, you’ll need to have a talk with your child’s orthodontist about the types of payment plans available.
Some orthodontists, for example, may have a payment plan that allows you to pay off a certain amount of money each month. Others may give you a discount for paying for braces in one large payment upfront.
If you have dental insurance, ask them how much of the cost of braces they’ll cover. If you don’t have insurance yet and anticipate needing teen braces in the future, now may be a good time to invest in a dental insurance plan. Find out if your employer offers any options.
Your employer may also provide a Health Savings Account, or HSA. These plans allow you to put aside money from your paycheck that will not get taxed. It can be used for co-pays and other qualified medical expenses, such as dental work.
You’ll control an HSA and you’re allowed to roll your contributions over from year to year.
By contrast, a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is owned by your employer. If your employer offers an FSA, it could be another great way to save and pay for your braces.
An FSA allows you to set aside money that is tax-sheltered to put aside for healthcare costs. You’ll save the funds you would have paid in taxes on this income.
If you know you’ll definitely be using the funds within the year by paying off braces each month, an FSA can be a good plan for your family.
4. Choosing the Right Orthodontist
Check with your friends and family before settling on an orthodontist. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Was their child always treated with courtesy and professionalism? Were they happy with the results of the treatment? Were there any unexpected fees?
If you can’t get any personal recommendations, you can check out local community groups online and ask for recommendations. Read online reviews and see if they match up with what you’re hearing. A comment that gets repeated a lot is probably indicative of the service your child will receive.
Make sure you choose someone who’s office you’re comfortable driving to. Your child will be re-visiting the orthodontist often while they’re in braces!
You should be confident that your orthodontist is always providing effective, professional service. Make sure you talk about all of your braces options before deciding on a treatment plan.
Your child should also be comfortable with the treatment they’re getting and the way their smile is progressing.
Get Smiling!
How much do braces cost? While they can be expensive, the right payment options can help you get the best value for your investment. And your child will have a gorgeous smile for the rest of their lives.
For more advice on parenting, read our blog today
