Orthodontic treatment is a significant investment in your dental health, overall health, and confidence. Whether you’re considering braces or clear aligners, you will want to make sure it's an investment you can comfortably make. Here's a guide to help you explore the various options when it comes to financing your orthodontic treatment, so you can focus on achieving the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve!
1. Flexible In-House Payment Plans:
Many orthodontists offer flexible in-office payment plans with zero or low interest. This can be a flexible and convenient option. Typically, these plans allow you to spread the total cost of treatment over several months or years with manageable monthly payments. Some offices may even offer zero-interest financing or low-interest rates, making it easy to fit orthodontic payments into your budget.
2. Insurance Coverage:
If you have insurance, the first step is to check your dental insurance plan. Many insurance plans offer partial coverage for braces or aligners, though coverage can vary greatly. If you have insurance, make sure to review your plan's benefits and limitations. Though some plans offer benefits for adults, many plans have age restrictions, offering coverage only for children and teenagers. Our team at Godley Family Orthodontics is always happy to help you review and maximize your benefits and file any necessary claims.
3. Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs):
FSAs and HSAs are tax-advantaged accounts that can be used to pay for qualified medical expenses, including orthodontics. If you have access to an FSA or HSA through your employer, consider using these funds to pay for orthodontic treatment. Contributions to these accounts are made pre-tax, which can reduce your overall tax burden and stretch your orthodontic dollars further. Be sure to check with your plan administrator for specific details and contribution limits.
4. Third-Party Financing:
If in-house financing isn’t available or isn’t a good fit, third-party financing companies can help. Providers like CareCredit® and LendingClub offer healthcare financing options specifically for dental and orthodontic treatments. These plans often include flexible terms and competitive interest rates. Be sure to compare different financing offers to find the best terms for your needs.
5. Assistance Programs
In certain cases, government assistance programs may provide financial help for orthodontic treatment. Programs such as Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) offer support for low-income families, and some states may cover orthodontic care for children with severe dental issues. It is important to note that not all dentists and orthodontists accept Medicaid or CHIP. Eligibility requirements and coverage can also vary, so be sure to check with your local health department or social services for more information.
Programs such as Smile for a Lifetime and Smiles Change Lives help those in underserved communities and low-income families afford orthodontic treatment. They focus on giving back to the community through scholarships and grants for orthodontic treatment. These programs partner with local orthodontists to provide care for individuals who are in need of orthodontic care but cannot afford it due to financial constraints. Applicants usually need to meet income guidelines and demonstrate a genuine need for orthodontic treatment. Eligibility is often limited to children and teens under the age of 18.
6. Savings Plans:
Creating a dedicated savings plan for orthodontic treatment is a great option if you can plan ahead. By setting aside a small amount each month, you can accumulate the necessary funds over time. This approach requires discipline and patience but can be an effective way to manage costs without relying on credit or loans.
7. Discuss Your Needs:
Our orthodontic team is committed to helping you find a financial solution that works for you and your family. Full treatment may not be right for everyone - and that's okay. Please don't hesitate to talk to us about your budget and any concerns you may have. We'll help you explore all available options and create a payment plan that suits your needs.
Affording orthodontic treatment doesn’t have to be a challenge. With a variety of options available, from in-house financing and insurance to third-party loans and savings plans, there are pathways to make the cost more manageable. Start by discussing your financial concerns with your orthodontist—they can often provide guidance and help you explore the best options for your situation.
About the author:
Dr. Danielle N. Godley is a Board Certified Orthodontist and owner at Godley Family Orthodontics in Zionsville, IN. Dr. Godley proudly participates in the Smile for a Lifetime program and loves serving local communities around Indianapolis.