Believe it or not, the cost of children’s braces is usually somewhere between $6,000 and $8,000.
If you have a school-aged child or tween, chances are you will need to pay for children’s braces in the near future. Yet how to families afford orthodontic treatments, and are they worth the price?
Here’s what you need to know before visiting a Nolensville kids dentist.
Why Braces?
Orthodontic treatment for your child is more than just a cosmetic decision. The reason why so many parents decide to invest in braces for their children is that it’s critical for their long-term dental health.
If your child has crooked or gapped teeth, they will be more likely to get food stuck between them. It will be difficult for them to brush or floss thoroughly, resulting in bigger dental problems down the line, including things like cavities and gum disease.
Braces can also help with things like breathing issues and speech impediments. In addition, straighter teeth will go a long way toward improving self-esteem and confidence, especially when it comes to picture time.
If you want your child to have a great start with a healthy mouth, it pays to invest in braces.
What Factors Influence The Cost of Braces?
Of course, the final cost of braces will depend upon a number of factors. For example, wire braces will cost the least amount of money at around $3,000 to $6,000. Less visible, more expensive options such as Invisalign or lingual braces can run as much as $10,000.
You’ll also pay more for braces depending upon the condition of your child’s bite, as well as your geographical neighborhood. The reputation and expertise of your dentist will also play a role.
The least expensive braces option isn’t always the best for your child, and many parents find that it’s worth it to pay a bit more for a better result.
How Can I Pay For Braces?
It’s important to keep in mind that you will rarely need to pay for an entire braces treatment upfront. If you’re able to do this, your orthodontist will likely give you some type of discount.
In most cases, your orthodontist will make a payment plan available to you so you can pay off the braces a little each month. You will know exactly when the payment time will start and end, regardless of how long your child wears braces.
You should also check with your dental insurance, as it may cover at least part of the treatment. Make sure the orthodontist you’re using takes your plan before deciding to use them for your treatment.
How Can I Budget For Braces?
If you know it’s likely that your child will be getting braces within the next few years, it pays to start saving now.
One popular way to save for braces is to set up a Health Savings Account, or HSA, with your employer. These accounts allow you to set aside a certain amount of money each month that is tax-sheltered, so you will be able to keep more of what you make. It can be used to help pay for medical treatments that include braces or glasses.
If your employer doesn’t have an HSA available, ask them about a Flexible Spending Account (FSA.) These are similar to HSAs in that you can set aside tax-protected money every month that can be used to pay for health expenses.
The difference, however, is that an FSA is owned by your employer rather than yourself. With an HSA, you will be allowed to roll over any funds you don’t use from year to year. This isn’t the case with an FSA.
If your employer doesn’t offer any of these options or you don’t work full time, consider simply putting away money each month in your savings account. It’s fair to assume that you will be paying anywhere from $125 to $400 per month once your child begins treatment.
If you don’t save up ahead of time, your budget may need to be tweaked so you can afford your monthly orthodontic payment. Or you may need to work extra hours in order to afford them. That’s why parents who plan for braces in advance give themselves a real advantage.
Your Nolensville Kids Dentist
You’ll need to have a serious conversation with your pediatric dentist or orthodontist before deciding on treatment options. Many have a variety of plans and braces types to choose from. Before beginning treatment, your dentist should be able to give you an exact breakdown of what you will be paying and when you’ll be expected to pay it.
Before choosing a dentist, make sure they come highly recommended by other families in your area. You’ll want to look for recommendations online and check out reviews to make sure you’re making a good decision.
Many dentists will allow you to come in for a consultation before you begin treatment. Talk to them about your child’s dental issues, as well as what they think the best course of treatment will be.
If your child needs orthodontist treatment, they aren’t alone. In fact, over 3 million American and Canadian children are wearing them at any given time. In time, their health and confidence will reap the benefits of the investment.
Smiling On
If your child is experiencing bite issues, it’s time to visit a Nolensville kids dentist. With the right plan, your young one will be able to benefit from quality braces in no time.
Don’t stop getting smart about your child’s smile now. For more information on quality orthodontic treatment in the Nolensville area, contact us today.