Dental Insurance that Covers Braces

If you or your child needs braces, you may be wondering how to cover the cost. Braces can be expensive, but dental insurance can help make them more affordable. In this article, we will discuss different types of dental insurance that cover braces and what to consider when choosing a plan.

Types of Dental Insurance that Cover Braces

Not all dental insurance plans cover braces, but some do. Here are the types of dental insurance that typically cover orthodontic treatment:

Type of Dental Insurance
Description
Traditional Dental Insurance
These plans typically cover a percentage of orthodontic treatment, up to a certain dollar amount.
Discount Dental Plans
These plans offer discounted rates on orthodontic treatment for members.
Employer-Sponsored Dental Plans
Some employer-sponsored dental plans include coverage for braces.

Traditional Dental Insurance

Traditional dental insurance plans typically cover a percentage of orthodontic treatment, up to a certain dollar amount. This means that you will be responsible for paying a portion of the cost, but the insurance will cover the rest, up to the limit.

For example, if your plan covers 50% of orthodontic treatment up to $3,000, and your total cost for braces is $5,000, you would pay $2,000 and the insurance would pay $3,000.

It is important to note that many traditional dental insurance plans have a waiting period before you can use the orthodontic benefit. This waiting period can be as long as two years, so be sure to check the details of your plan.

Also, some plans may have age limits for orthodontic coverage. For example, they may only cover orthodontic treatment for children under the age of 18.

Discount Dental Plans

Discount dental plans offer discounted rates on orthodontic treatment for members. These plans are not insurance, but rather a membership program that gives you access to reduced rates at participating dentists.

Discount dental plans can be a good option if you do not have traditional dental insurance or if your insurance does not cover orthodontic treatment. However, it is important to note that you may still be responsible for a significant portion of the cost.

Be sure to read the details of the plan carefully before signing up, as some plans may have restrictions or limitations on orthodontic treatment.

Employer-Sponsored Dental Plans

Some employer-sponsored dental plans include coverage for braces. If you have dental insurance through your employer, check to see if orthodontic treatment is covered.

Employer-sponsored plans may have different coverage levels or waiting periods than traditional dental insurance plans, so be sure to read the details carefully.

What to Consider When Choosing a Dental Insurance Plan for Braces

When choosing a dental insurance plan that covers braces, there are several factors to consider:

Coverage Level

Check to see what percentage of orthodontic treatment is covered and up to what dollar amount.

Waiting Period

Some plans have a waiting period before you can use the orthodontic benefit. Be sure to check how long the waiting period is before signing up.

Age Limit

Some plans may have age limits for orthodontic coverage. Be sure to check if there is an age limit before signing up.

Cost

Consider how much the plan costs and how much you will need to pay out of pocket for orthodontic treatment.

Network

Check to see if the plan has a network of dentists that you must use in order to receive coverage for orthodontic treatment. If you have a specific orthodontist in mind, be sure to check if they are in the network.

FAQ

Will dental insurance cover the full cost of braces?

No, dental insurance typically covers a percentage of the cost of braces, up to a certain dollar amount.

How much does orthodontic treatment cost?

The cost of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the type of braces and the length of treatment. On average, braces can cost between $3,000 and $7,000.

What is a waiting period?

A waiting period is a period of time that you must wait before you can use a particular benefit of an insurance plan. Many dental insurance plans have a waiting period before you can use the orthodontic benefit.

Can adults get braces?

Yes, many adults get braces for cosmetic or medical reasons. However, some dental insurance plans may have age limits for orthodontic coverage.

What is a discount dental plan?

A discount dental plan is a membership program that gives you access to reduced rates on dental services at participating dentists. These plans are not insurance.

Conclusion

If you or your child needs braces, dental insurance can help make them more affordable. There are several types of dental insurance that cover orthodontic treatment, including traditional dental insurance, discount dental plans, and employer-sponsored plans. When choosing a plan, consider the coverage level, waiting period, age limit, cost, and network. By carefully evaluating your options, you can find a dental insurance plan that covers braces and meets your needs.