Money Doesn't Grow on Trees

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Most kids aren’t born with straight teeth and a perfect bite. Odds are…you may have already noticed that your child has some misalignment issues.  

In these tough economic times, it's hard to justify the expense of orthodontic braces. For some families, paying for orthodontics can be difficult and dental insurance rarely covers more than a small percentage of orthodontic treatment. However, before you rule out braces as a luxury, consider the significance of orthodontic treatment. 

Getting good orthodontic care is more than just an aesthetic issue. Braces can correct moderately to severely crooked teeth, as well as underbites and overbites. Having crowded or crooked teeth can inhibit good brushing and flossing, making it harder to keep teeth and gums healthy. Furthermore, severe overbites or underbites left uncorrected can cause jaw pain. Proper orthodontic treatment can prevent your child from experiencing mouth pain or discomfort later in life, not to mention, promote better self-confidence. 

The cost of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the length and complexity of your treatment.  But with some smart planning and budgeting the cost for orthodontic treatment will be easier to manage. 

Get Covered - If you don’t have dental insurance, look into plans that include orthodontics and double check the participating Orthodontists in your area. A good resource to help you get started is www.dentalplans.com. 

Know Your Insurance Policy - If you have health insurance, it may include dental treatment, and possibly, orthodontic treatment. So contact your insurance company to check your benefits. 

Establish a Payment Plan - Most orthodontists offer monthly payment plans extended over the time of treatment with no interest or other charges. During your initial visit with the orthodontist, find out whether any additional financing may be possible at no or low interest. You may be surprised to find that many orthodontists are willing to extend the length of payment and make other adjustments to help ease the burden. 

Consider Credit – In many cases, the fee for orthodontic treatment can be paid via Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express. 

If the cost of braces is a concern, it's worth the effort and patience it takes to find an orthodontist who will work you and your budget. The Rhode Island Orthodontic Group believes that finances should never be an obstacle when it comes to a healthy smile because straight teeth are more than just pretty…they offer benefits that will last your whole life.