One of the questions we hear most often here at Clauss Orthodontics is “how much will braces actually cost me?” This is an understandable concern, and there’s no denying that orthodontic treatment of any kind will require an investment of your time and finances. The answer to this question can depend on a number of different variables! With multiple treatment options to choose from in our Watertown and Woodbury offices, and customized treatment plans for every patient we see, we consider things like
- the type of braces chosen
- whether the braces are for an adult or a child
- the orthodontic issues being corrected
- how long braces are estimated to be needed
- if the patient has dental insurance that covers orthodontics
as we calculate the investment needed for any new smile, as each of these factors will play a part in the total cost of treatment.
For example, traditional metal braces tend to be one of the least expensive treatment options available. Clear braces or Invisalign aligners may run slightly more. Orthodontic treatment for children will often be a bit less expensive than adult treatment, although this will depend on the specifics from case to case. A patient with complex orthodontic issues may require longer treatment times, more work, and more follow-up visits than someone with milder issues, which could be reflected in the total cost of treatment.
Every orthodontist will also have their own pricing structure, which is based in part on the region in which they are located. And what about dental insurance? Some policies cover orthodontic treatment, but how much the coverage is will usually depend on the individual patient and the recommended treatment plan.
What does the total cost of braces treatment include?
There may be multiple variables to consider, but you’ll never have to worry about hidden costs at Clauss Orthodontics! After your free consultation with Dr. Clauss, we’ll outline everything included in your personalized treatment plan, and ensure you understand it before beginning your orthodontic journey. Our treatment plans contain everything you’ll need to achieve superior results, including:
- all appointments
- any emergency visits
- braces or aligners
- retainers
- post-treatment follow-up visits
- an oral hygiene starter pack
Our treatment fees are a reflection of the skill and experience Dr. Clauss possesses, the high-quality service we provide, and the innovative technology we use to create beautiful, healthy smiles. We know that braces are a significant investment for most families, and offer multiple payment options, including:
- 0% interest financing plan
- Monthly auto-draft from your bank or credit card
- 5% discount for paid in full treatment
- No pre-approvals needed
- Family and sibling courtesy discount
What is the average cost for braces?
There are so many different factors involved in customized orthodontic care that we’re unable to offer a general answer for how much treatment will cost. However, we can say that the average treatment cost for a child can be anywhere from $3-7K, while adult braces or aligners can run from around $5-8K. Just remember that the total cost will depend on each patient’s specific needs, along with the factors we’ve mentioned above.
Will dental insurance cover orthodontic treatment?
While some dental insurance plans do cover orthodontic treatment, the coverage rules can often be vague, confusing, or downright time-consuming to try and understand. Our team will be happy to help you find out if your insurance covers orthodontic treatment and how you can maximize your benefits.
Dr. Clauss prepares each patient’s treatment plan based upon his years of professional experience and that patient’s unique health needs. He will never recommend treatment based on whether or not certain treatment options are covered by insurance, but will present patients with the plan that will best address their needs, lifestyle, and goals.
Because insurance policies are unique, we’ll review your insurance to help you decide on the best course of action for your treatment plan. Once treatment begins, we can file your insurance claims for you and accept any payment assignment from your insurance company.
If dental insurance doesn’t cover treatment, can any of the costs be deducted?
If braces are considered to be medically necessary, the dental health care costs associated with them may be tax deductible. However, the cost has to exceed a certain amount before any deductions would kick in. If deducting the cost of treatment is something you’re interested in, you should keep track of all expenses, including co-pays and check-up visits.
Will Medicaid cover the cost of braces?
If braces are considered to be medically necessary for a patient, the treatment costs may be covered by the Medicaid. To learn more about this possibility, visit http://www.medicaid.gov/. It is important to ask about the percentage of coverage and the lifetime maximum before proceeding with treatment.
Your smile is worth investing in with Clauss Orthodontics
Braces do more than straighten your teeth and boost your self-confidence. Your oral health also plays an important role in your total body health. Misaligned teeth can increase the risk for everything from tooth decay and cavities to pain in the head, neck, and shoulders. Correcting these orthodontic issues can help you look and feel better than ever!
Everybody loves a good deal, but it’s essential to choose an orthodontist based on their skill, experience, and how comfortable you feel in their care, rather than picking a provider based on price alone. Here at Clauss Orthodontics, we take pride in giving patients a rewarding orthodontic experience that’s stress-free from the first appointment to the last. To learn more about how you can achieve the smile you’ve always wanted with braces that fit your budget, get in touch to schedule your FREE consultation!