Here at Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists, we work hard to ensure that you and your family can Bank on Bankhead, and that means offering you the leading quality of care at an affordable price point that won’t break the bank! But how does orthodontic insurance work? Let’s break it down together so you can make the most of your benefits.
What Is Orthodontic Insurance?
Orthodontic insurance is a specialized form of dental insurance designed to help cover the cost of braces, clear aligners, and other orthodontic treatments. While general dental insurance focuses on preventive care and minor restorative treatments, orthodontic insurance targets long-term solutions for alignment and bite correction.
Unlike traditional dental plans, orthodontic insurance often operates with different guidelines and may involve:
- Lifetime Maximums: A one-time cap on coverage for orthodontic treatments.
- Age Restrictions: Some plans cover children only, while others extend coverage to adults.
Understanding these distinctions can help you navigate your plan more effectively and avoid surprises
Key Features of Orthodontic Insurance
1. Coverage Percentages
Most orthodontic insurance plans don’t cover the entire cost of treatment. Instead, they contribute a percentage—often around 50%—up to the plan’s lifetime maximum.
For example, if your braces cost $5,000 and your insurance covers 50% with a $1,500 lifetime maximum, the insurer will pay $1,500, leaving you responsible for the remaining $3,500.
2. Deductibles
Before your insurance kicks in, you may need to meet a deductible. This is a set amount you must pay out of pocket first. Deductibles for orthodontic coverage tend to be lower than those for medical insurance but are still worth noting.
3. Eligible Treatments
Orthodontic insurance typically covers the following:
- Traditional metal braces
- Ceramic braces
- Clear aligners (like Invisalign)
- Retainers (in some cases)
Cosmetic enhancements, such as tooth whitening or veneers, are usually excluded.
4. Exclusions and Limitations
Some policies limit coverage to specific types of braces or require that treatment begin before a certain age. Make sure to clarify these details with your provider.
Why Orthodontic Insurance Is Important
Orthodontic treatment is an investment in oral health and confidence. Misaligned teeth can lead to long-term dental problems, including:
- Difficulty Cleaning Teeth: Crowded or overlapping teeth create spaces where plaque and bacteria can build up.
- Increased Risk of Wear: A misaligned bite can cause uneven wear on your teeth, leading to chips or fractures.
- Jaw Pain and Discomfort: An improper bite can strain your jaw joints, potentially causing TMJ issues.
Insurance makes these treatments more accessible by reducing financial barriers.
How to Use Orthodontic Insurance
At Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists, we make the process as seamless as possible. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Verify Your Coverage
Bring your insurance details to your consultation. Our team will verify your benefits and explain how much of your treatment will be covered.
Step 2: Plan Your Budget
Once we’ve verified your coverage, we’ll provide a detailed cost breakdown. This includes what your insurance will pay, any remaining balance, and available payment plan options.
Combining Insurance with Other Payment Options
Orthodontic insurance may not cover the full cost of treatment, but you have several ways to manage the remaining balance:
1. In-House Financing
At Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists, we offer interest-free financing that lets you spread payments over time. This approach ensures your budget stays intact while you or your child receives the necessary care.
2. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
These accounts allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars for medical and dental expenses, including orthodontics. Using an FSA or HSA can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
3. CareCredit
As a trusted third-party healthcare lender, CareCredit provides financing options for orthodontic treatment. You can apply for a plan that works best for your budget.
What If You Don’t Have Orthodontic Insurance?
No insurance? No problem. We work with families to create solutions that fit their financial needs. Here’s how we help:
- Discounts for Upfront Payment: Paying for your treatment in full before starting can save you money.
- Flexible Monthly Payments: Automatic withdrawals ensure payments fit conveniently into your routine.
- Customized Plans: Our team tailors payment schedules to align with your budget.
Common Questions About Orthodontic Insurance
1. Can I Get Orthodontic Insurance Separately?
Yes, standalone orthodontic insurance plans are available. These plans often complement existing dental insurance and provide additional benefits for braces and aligners.
2. Does My Plan Cover Invisalign?
Many insurance providers cover Invisalign, though the specifics depend on your policy. Coverage often matches what’s offered for traditional braces, with some plans requiring additional approval for clear aligners.
3. How Do I Know What’s Covered?
Bring your insurance information to your consultation. We’ll handle the verification process and explain your benefits in detail.
4. What If My Plan Has a Low Lifetime Maximum?
Even with limited coverage, we can help you explore financing options to manage the remaining costs. Our goal is to make treatment affordable for every family.
Why Bank on Bankhead for Affordable Orthodontic Care?
Orthodontic care is a long-term investment, but it doesn’t have to strain your wallet. At Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists, we’re committed to providing affordable orthodontic care without sacrificing quality. Here’s why families trust us:
- Expertise: Our board-certified orthodontists deliver exceptional results using the latest technology.
- Convenience: With seven locations, you’re never far from expert care.
- Affordability: From insurance verification to financing, we make every step stress-free and budget-friendly.
Let’s Get Started!
We’re glad you’ve taken the time to learn a little more about how Orthodontic Insurance works, and we hope you feel a little more at home when it comes to navigating your options. But guess what? No matter whether you’re visiting our office in Alton, Carlinville, Chesterfield, Lake St. Louis, O’Fallon, Warrenton, or Wentzville, your consultation is always free at Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists, and any other questions you may have are always welcome! We can’t wait to get started!
