By Dr. Matt Sandretti and the team at Elk Grove Orthodontics
The honest answer is that it depends on what your smile needs. The cost of braces in Elk Grove comes down to how complex the bite is, how long treatment will take and which type of braces or aligners is right for you. That's why we don't post a single price. After a consultation, you'll know your fee and your payment options before anything begins. We work with all insurance plans, and we offer interest-free financing and flexible financing options so treatment can fit your family's budget.
Here's what goes into the number, and the ways families pay for it.
Why isn't there one price for braces?
Two kids can both "need braces" and have very different treatment ahead of them. One may only need to close a small gap. Another may need an expander first, then braces to correct a deep bite. The fee follows the treatment plan, so a fair number has to come after an exam.
The American Association of Orthodontists puts it the same way: the cost of treatment depends on its type, its complexity and how long it lasts.
What affects the cost of braces?
- How complex the bite is. Crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites and crossbites each take a different amount of work to correct.
- How long treatment takes. Longer, more involved treatment means more visits and more adjustments along the way.
- The type of appliance. Metal braces, clear braces and Invisalign® clear aligners each come with different costs. Our types of appliances page explains the options, and our Invisalign cost page covers aligners.
- Early treatment. Some children benefit from a first phase of treatment before all of their adult teeth are in. When that's the case, it's part of the plan and the fee we review with you. Learn more about early orthodontic treatment.
- Extra appliances. Expanders and other appliances add steps to treatment. If one is needed, we'll explain why and build it into the plan we review together.
Does dental insurance cover braces?
Many dental plans include an orthodontic benefit, especially for children. Plans work differently: some pay a percentage of the fee and others pay a set amount, and many have a lifetime maximum for orthodontics or an age limit.
We work with all insurance plans. Our team will help you understand your benefits and take care of the claims paperwork, so you can make the most of the coverage you have. Before your visit, it helps to check your benefits summary for three things:
- your orthodontic lifetime maximum
- any age limit for orthodontic coverage
- any waiting period before orthodontic benefits begin
If your employer's open enrollment is coming up this fall, it's also a good time to see which plans include orthodontic coverage.
Can you use an FSA or HSA for braces?
In most cases, yes. The IRS lists braces among eligible dental expenses in Publication 502, and health FSAs and HSAs can generally be used for eligible dental care. That lets you pay with pre-tax dollars. FSA money often has to be used by the end of the plan year, so check your own plan's rules and deadlines with your plan administrator.
How do payment plans and financing work?
We offer interest-free financing and flexible financing options, so you can spread the cost of treatment into monthly payments that fit your budget. We'll walk through the choices with you at your consultation and set up a plan that works for your family. We also accept most major credit cards. You'll find more on our financial information page.
What happens at the consultation?
A consultation is the only way to get a real number, and it's a relaxed first visit. Here's what to expect:
- We get to know you and talk about what you'd like to change.
- Dr. Sandretti does an exam. When records help, we take digital scans with our iTero® scanner, with no goopy impressions.
- He explains whether treatment makes sense now, later or not at all, and walks you through the options.
- We review your fee, your insurance benefit and your payment options, so you leave with clear answers.
We offer complimentary new patient consultations, so you can come in, get real answers and see your options before you decide anything.
What should you ask at your consultation?
Bring your questions. These are a good start:
- Does my child need treatment now, or is it better to wait?
- Which options would work: metal braces, clear braces or Invisalign aligners?
- About how long will treatment take?
- What's included in the fee?
- How will my insurance benefit apply, and what payment options are there?
Find out what treatment would cost for your family
Families come to our office on Elk Grove Florin Road from across Elk Grove, Laguna, Sheldon, Wilton and Galt. Call us at (916) 685-2164 or request an appointment, and you'll leave knowing your options, your fee and how to pay for it.
Still deciding where to go? Our post on finding the right orthodontist near Elk Grove covers what to look for.
Sources
- American Association of Orthodontists: How Much Do Braces Cost?
Internal Revenue Service: Publication 502, Medical and Dental Expenses