Frequently Asked Questions About Braces and Insurance Coverage
Orthodontics of Santa Barbara helps straighten patients’ teeth and improve their smiles. Our friendly dental office in Santa Barbara, CA, offers multiple orthodontic options, including traditional metal braces, porcelain ceramic braces, and Invisalign® braces. We understand that insurance can get complicated, so we are here to answer frequently asked questions about braces and insurance coverage!
Do I Need Dental Insurance to Get Braces from Orthodontics of Santa Barbara?
You do not need dental insurance to get braces from Orthodontics of Santa Barbara. However, dental insurance often reduces your out-of-pocket cost. Therefore, having dental insurance is beneficial, though certainly not required.
Will My Dental Insurance Plan Cover Traditional Metal Braces?
Dental insurance plans vary widely. Some dental insurance plans include orthodontic coverage, such as traditional metal braces, and others do not. Factors that can affect whether traditional metal braces are covered include the age of the patient and the reason for braces. For example, children who need braces to eat, chew, and speak properly may have orthodontic coverage, whereas adults who want braces for cosmetic purposes may not.
What Portion of the Cost for Metal Braces Will My Plan Cover?
If your dental insurance includes orthodontic coverage, your plan may either pay a percentage of the cost or a flat fee. On average, orthodontic coverage may help cover up to 50% of the cost of traditional metal braces. This may reduce your out-of-pocket cost to between $1,500-$3,500.
What if My Dental Insurance Does Not Cover Traditional Metal Braces?
If your dental insurance does not cover traditional metal braces, Orthodontics of Santa Barbara can work with you to provide an easy payment plan. Typically, metal braces cost between $3,000-$7,000. However, Orthodontics of Santa Barbara is committed to providing patients with affordable dental care. At your consultation appointment, we will be happy to discuss your budget options and provide you with a cost estimate.
Does Dental Insurance Pay for Porcelain Ceramic Braces?
Dental insurance plans that include orthodontic coverage may pay for a portion of porcelain ceramic braces. Finding a plan that covers adults may be difficult since braces are often considered cosmetic above a certain age. If your dental insurance plan does not include orthodontics or has limitations, you may also purchase supplemental dental insurance with orthodontic coverage. You can also take advantage of cost-effective dental solutions provided by Orthodontics of Santa Barbara.
What is the Cost of Porcelain Ceramic Braces with Dental Insurance?
Dental insurance with orthodontic coverage may cover up to 50% of the cost of porcelain ceramic braces. Typically, this puts your out-of-pocket cost around $2,000-$4,000.
How Much Are Porcelain Ceramic Braces Without Orthodontic Coverage?
If your dental insurance does not include orthodontic coverage, porcelain ceramic braces usually cost between $4,000-$8,000. With our flexible payment plans, Orthodontics of Santa Barbara can help you lower this cost!
Will Dental Insurance Cover Invisalign® Braces?
Invisalign® braces qualify as orthodontic treatment. Therefore, if your dental insurance has orthodontic coverage, a portion of your Invisalign® braces may be covered. Sometimes dental insurance plans will allow a certain amount toward the cost of Invisalign® braces, even if they are not explicitly covered. However, if they are covered, they are often covered in the same fashion as traditional braces.
How Much of the Cost of Invisalign® Braces Does My Insurance Cover?
How much your Invisalign® braces cost varies depending on the complexity of your treatment. For example, some dental patients experience more shifting in their teeth than others. However, your orthodontic coverage will usually cover up to 50% of the cost. This usually reduces your out-of-pocket cost to between $2,000-$3,700.
What if Invisalign® Braces Are Not Covered by My Insurance Plan?
Without orthodontic coverage, Invisalign® braces usually range between $4,000-$7,400, though Orthodontics of Santa Barbara can help you put together a plan that lowers this amount.
How Can I Verify if My Dental Insurance Covers Orthodontics?
Orthodontics of Santa Barbara can help you confirm your dental insurance benefits. Likewise, you may contact your insurance provider. In addition, it is best to check if there is a yearly maximum benefit or a lifetime maximum benefit, as these are common insurance limitations.
What if I Switch Dental Insurances Mid-Treatment?
Insurance changes occur from time to time. However, it is best to avoid changing your dental insurance in the middle of orthodontic treatment. If you change insurance while in the middle of orthodontic treatment, the new company may decide to continue the coverage. Conversely, other insurance companies may consider it a pre-existing condition, meaning you will need to cover the cost. Before switching insurances, it is always best to find out these details first to avoid unexpected expenses.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Braces?
In addition to an individual’s age and the reason for braces, there are several factors that affect the cost. For example, some teeth are further apart and require more time and effort to move. The location you live in can also make a difference and contribute to pricing fluctuations. The type of braces you choose also affect the cost, with traditional metal braces generally being the most affordable option. Porcelain ceramic braces and Invisalign® braces are less conspicuous and may not be worn as long. Thus, they are often more expensive orthodontic options.
Do You Have More Questions About Braces or Dental Insurance?
The cost of braces varies. It takes into consideration the type of orthodontic treatment rendered, the length of the treatment, and so forth. While an exact price cannot be given, the average dental patient may spend several thousand dollars on braces. Traditional metal braces are the least expensive, whereas porcelain ceramic braces and Invisalign® braces cost more. Orthodontics of Santa Barbara provides cost-effective orthodontic solutions, so if your dental insurance does not cover orthodontics, there is no need to worry! At your initial orthodontic consultation, we will partner with you to find an affordable solution and provide you with a cost estimate.
Braces are a great orthodontic option that can offer a new and improved smile! To schedule your orthodontic consultation at Orthodontics of Santa Barbara, simply contact us or call (805) 979-9070!
