It’s estimated that around 50% to 75% of people could benefit from orthodontic care, but orthodontic treatments can often be expensive and may not be in your price range even if they could help improve your health. Fortunately, there are a few key ways you can go about budgeting for orthodontic treatment without breaking the bank.
1. Ask to Set Up a Payment Plan
The moment you know that you need to undergo a certain treatment, you should find out from your orthodontist if you can set up a payment plan. Doing this can help you avoid having to dig deep into your bank account and leave your finances in disarray. About 4 million Americans wear braces, so your orthodontist most likely already has a payment plan available. That said, you’ll never know if you don’t ask, so find out what options you have so that you can prepare adequately.
2. Determine How Long You’ll Need Treatment For
To be able to make your budgeting plans, you have to know how much time you’ll be making payments for. This is in terms of the treatment that you need to get since some orthodontic treatments can take years. For instance, adults can expect to wear braces for three to four years, while children will usually have them for two years. When you know how much time your treatment will take, it will be easier for you to know what you need to do to get your finances in order. Work with your orthodontist during your consultation to find out all the details of your treatment.
3. Figure Out How Much Insurance Covers
Next, you should check with your health insurance to find out how much they’ll cover, if anything. This will help you save some money and you might end up with a bill that’s more manageable. About 25% of orthodontic patients are adults, and if you have dental insurance through your job, your insurance may include an orthodontic option. Read through your insurance information to find the cap for your orthodontic coverage for the year. You can also contact your dental insurance for more information and to go over the details.
4. Make Space in Your Budget for Monthly Savings
From the moment you realize that you have an orthodontic treatment to get, you need to add it to your monthly budget. Treat it as you’d treat any other monthly expense and save for it throughout the month. Doing this is going to give you a good chance of getting the amount you need within a reasonable time frame.
5. Shop Around
Last but not least, shop around to see if you can find an orthodontist who has fairer prices. Remember that you must verify their quality as well since cheaper might mean that their services are also sub-par. You can check with your local dental schools if you know any in your area. This could help you get great service at a fraction of the price. If you’re dealing with a family orthodontist who’s treated you for a long time, however, it’s best to stick with them and ask them if they can offer you a discount instead.
In these five ways, you can easily budget for orthodontic treatments. You’ll be doing what’s best for your oral health and can avoid more expenses down the road as a result of doing so. When you get your oral health in great shape, you’ll have improved your overall health as well.