Navigating the waters of orthodontic care for one child can be challenging enough, but when multiple children need braces, the financial aspect can seem daunting. However, as a parent, you want the best for your children and their oral health. With the right information and resources, you can find ways to afford braces for multiple children without breaking the bank.

Understanding the Cost of Braces

Before diving into financing options, it’s important to understand the cost of braces and the factors that influence it, such as the orthodontist’s location, type of braces, and length of treatment required. With this said, you can expect to pay roughly between $3,000 to $10,000 per child.

Here is an average cost breakdown for different types of orthodontic treatment:

• Metal braces (traditional braces): $3,000 – $7,000
• Ceramic braces (tooth-colored braces): $4,000 – $8,000
• Lingual braces (braces that go on the back surfaces of your teeth): $8,000 – $10,000
• Invisible braces (custom-made trays that straighten your teeth over time): $4,000 – $7,400

Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Braces for Multiple Children?

Some dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost for braces, so it’s important to check with your provider to see if this is an option. Policies vary, but many dental plans will cover up to 50% of the cost of braces, with a $1,500 lifetime maximum per child. While this still leaves you on the hook for the remainder, it can make a significant dent in your total out-of-pocket expenses. Keep in mind that there may be limits on coverage and certain restrictions, such as age limits or the type of braces covered. You can also inquire about adding orthodontic coverage to your current dental plan.

Are Payment Plans Available?

One option to help make braces more affordable for families with multiple children is a payment plan or special financing offered by orthodontic practices. These payment plans allow you to pay for the treatment in smaller, more manageable installments over a period of time. For example, an interest-free, 28-month payment plan with no down payment would make a $5,000 orthodontic treatment cost around $179 per month. If your dental plan covers some of your costs, your monthly payment would be even less.

Payment policies will vary from office to office, so it’s a good idea to ask about payment plans, including any interest associated with the plan and the duration of the payment period. By understanding the terms up front, you can make an informed decision about which practice you want to use and how you will pay for the braces.

At Advanced Orthodontic Specialists, we’re proud to offer our patients a flexible payment plan for braces with extended payments, interest-free financing, and personalized down payments so you can find a payment plan that works for your family and budget.

What About Family Discount Plans?

If you have more than one child needing braces, the cost can quickly add up. To make covering the expenses more feasible, consider asking your orthodontic office if they offer a family discount tailored for multiple children’s orthodontic treatments. This approach can help spread the financial responsibility across all children requiring braces, potentially making it more financially manageable for your family. With our Family Care Program, you can save 5% on each additional child’s orthodontic care! Reach out to us for more information.

Using FSAs to Cover the Cost of Braces for Multiple Children

Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health saving accounts (HSAs) are offered as a part of healthcare plans by some employers. Both allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars to be used toward eligible expenses, which often include orthodontic treatments.

With an FSA, you’ll set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses, but you’ll need to spend them within the year. An HSA lets you contribute to a tax-free account for eligible medical expenses, with the balance rolling over annually. If you have an HSA through your workplace, you can often set up automatic contributions directly from your paycheck. 

Looking into Government Assistance Programs

Depending on your financial situation, you may qualify for government assistance programs that can help cover the cost of braces for your children. Programs such as Medicaid, CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program), or state-specific assistance programs can provide financial aid for orthodontic care.

Should I Take Out a Personal Loan to Cover the Cost of Braces for Multiple Children?

If you’re unable to cover the cost of braces through other means, taking out a personal loan could be an option worth exploring. These loans are available from banks, online lenders, and credit unions and can be used for various expenses, including orthodontic treatment. While personal loans come with interest, they typically have lower rates than credit cards. They also offer a lump sum upfront that may help you secure a discount for paying in full. Additionally, you’ll have a predictable monthly payment to budget for. 

Ultimately, don’t let the cost of your child’s braces overwhelm you. There are various options to manage orthodontic expenses for multiple children, like payment plans from your orthodontist, flexible spending accounts, and even personal loans. With some research and planning, you can find a solution that fits your family’s budget.

At Advanced Orthodontic Specialists, we do everything we can to make treatment affordable! No surprises or hidden fees – just truly flexible financing. Contact us today!