{"id":29553,"date":"2023-06-18T09:00:28","date_gmt":"2023-06-18T09:00:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/eliteorthodonticsnova.com\/?p=29553"},"modified":"2023-12-07T13:09:50","modified_gmt":"2023-12-07T13:09:50","slug":"are-orthodontics-covered-by-dental-insurance","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/eliteorthodonticsnova.com\/blog\/are-orthodontics-covered-by-dental-insurance\/","title":{"rendered":"Are Orthodontics Covered By Dental Insurance?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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At first blush, many patients consider orthodontic treatments to be a purely cosmetic solution that offers little benefit outside of aesthetics. But, nothing could be further from the truth! Indeed, orthodontia does much more than create beautiful smiles\u2013it helps enhance one\u2019s dental and systemic health for years to come. However, many individuals are concerned about the financial aspect of orthodontics, leading many patients to wonder: Are orthodontics covered by dental insurance?<\/p>\n
In this blog post, we delve into the topic of dental insurance coverage for orthodontic treatments. We provide you with a comprehensive overview of treatments that insurance companies usually fully cover, partially cover, and do not cover at all. We also explore alternative ways for patients to save money on orthodontia outside of insurance coverage to make treatment more accessible for more patients.<\/p>\n
Orthodontic Treatments Covered by Dental Insurance<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n Depending on the patient\u2019s insurance coverage and the treatments that they need, patients can expect full, partial, or no coverage for orthodontia. Let\u2019s explore some common treatments and how much insurance coverage they typically have now.<\/p>\n Fully-Covered Treatments<\/strong><\/p>\n Some dental insurance plans provide full coverage for certain orthodontic treatments, typically for individuals under the age of 18. These treatments may include:<\/p>\n Traditional metal braces: Many dental insurance plans fully cover traditional metal braces for kids and teens. This may be because insurance companies recognize the importance of orthodontic intervention during early developmental stages.<\/p>\n Clear aligners: In recent years, clear aligner systems (like Invisalign\u00ae) have revolutionized orthodontia. Some dental insurance plans may fully cover clear aligner treatments, especially for younger patients who require phase-one intervention.<\/p>\n Partially-Covered Treatments<\/strong><\/p>\n Depending on your dental insurance, certain orthodontic treatments may be partially covered. This means that the patient may be responsible for a portion of the cost.<\/p>\n These treatments can vary depending on the insurance plan and individual circumstances. Examples of services that may be partially covered by insurance companies include:<\/p>\n Ceramic braces:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>Ceramic braces are more discreet than traditional metal braces, but they do tend to be more expensive. Dental insurances may cover a portion of the cost, while the patient is responsible for the remainder.<\/p>\n Lingual braces:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>Dentists place lingual braces on the backside of the teeth, making them virtually invisible. Some insurance plans may partially cover lingual braces, but you should consult your insurance provider for specific details.<\/p>\n Orthodontic Treatments Not Typically Covered by Dental Insurance<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n As a general rule, it is best to assume that your insurance will not cover a treatment unless otherwise stated on your plan. That\u2019s why it is so important to fully read and understand your insurance plan before committing to costly orthodontic treatments.<\/p>\n Nevertheless, there are a couple of instances where you can safely assume that your insurance company may resist full or partial coverage, including:<\/p>\n Adult Orthodontics<\/strong><\/p>\n Most dental insurance plans focus on covering orthodontic treatments for children and teenagers, as they recognize the significance of early intervention. Therefore, most insurance plans may not cover adult orthodontics, or they may have very limited coverage for adults.<\/p>\n Cosmetic Orthodontics<\/strong><\/p>\n Procedures that are primarily aimed at improving aesthetics rather than addressing functional issues may not be covered by dental insurance. This may include treatments such as:<\/p>\n Saving Money on Orthodontic Treatments Outside of Insurance Coverage<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n While dental insurance coverage for orthodontics can be limited, there are alternative ways for patients to save money on these treatments, including:<\/p>\n Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)<\/strong><\/p>\n These accounts are similar to escrow accounts, allowing individuals to set aside money for medical expenses, including orthodontic treatments. Utilizing FSAs or HSAs can help reduce the overall cost of orthodontic care.<\/p>\n Orthodontic Financing Plans<\/strong><\/p>\n Many orthodontic practices offer financing options that allow patients to pay for treatments in installments over an extended period. These plans often come with low or no interest, making them an affordable alternative to dental insurance.<\/p>\n Free or Reduced-Rate Services at Dental Schools and Clinics<\/p>\n Dental schools and clinics may offer reduced-cost orthodontic treatments performed by supervised dental students or faculty members. While the treatment may take longer, it can be a cost-effective option for patients seeking affordable orthodontic care.<\/p>\n Are Orthodontics Covered by Dental Insurance? Find Out Now!<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n While dental insurance coverage for orthodontics varies, it is important to understand the treatments that are typically fully covered, partially covered, and not covered by insurance. It is also important to understand alternative financing options outside of insurance coverage for affordable and attainable orthodontic care.<\/p>\n Always be sure to fully review your insurance plan before committing to costly orthodontic procedures. If you need help deciphering your plan,\u00a0<\/span>contact our team<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>for expert advice!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#FAF9F7″ custom_padding=”30px|30px|30px|30px|true|true” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”da97f663-bffa-4dfa-a3da-aee969fc6c1b” header_3_font=”Roboto Flex|700|||||||” header_3_text_align=”center” header_3_text_color=”#333333″ header_3_line_height=”1.4em” text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Ready to take the first step toward your best smile? Our team is always available to answer any questions you may have.\u00a0 Call one of our offices near you during business hours or book online<\/a> anytime. <\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”\/appointments\/” button_text=”Book Online” button_alignment=”center” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” custom_button=”on” button_text_color=”#ffffff” button_bg_color=”#186db8″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”1px” button_font=”Roboto Flex||||||||” button_use_icon=”off” custom_margin=”|10px|||false|false” global_module=”29481″ saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_bg_color__hover=”#0061b7″ button_bg_color__hover_enabled=”on|hover” button_border_width__hover_enabled=”on|desktop” button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=”on|desktop” button_border_width__hover=”0px” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" In this post, we discuss ways to have a dental-friendly Thanksgiving in 2022. From smile-enhancing foods to dental aftercare tips, we give you and your loved ones ideas on how to have the healthiest holiday season yet!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":29554,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":" It\u2019s officially that time of year when we all eat, drink, and be merry. But, with all the eating, drinking, and merriment going on, it can be hard to prioritize our oral health. Luckily, simple changes in our Thanksgiving Day celebrations can add up to huge improvements in our smiles.<\/p> In this post, we discuss ways to have a dental-friendly Thanksgiving in 2022. From smile-enhancing foods to dental aftercare tips, we give you and your loved ones ideas on how to have the healthiest holiday season yet!<\/p> Eight Smile-enhancing Foods and Drinks for Thanksgiving<\/strong><\/p> Rather than subtracting foods from your Thanksgiving menu, try adding in smile-friendly foods to your carte du jour. Let\u2019s take a look at eight smile-enhancing foods that you can guiltlessly add to your Thanksgiving Day spread.<\/p> Raw Veggies<\/strong><\/p> Chock full of fiber and essential nutrients, raw vegetables are an ideal appetizer before the main course. Not only will your guests enjoy a healthier alternative, but raw veggies help scrape plaque from the teeth while also encouraging saliva production. Together, these two factors help reduce the number of disease-causing microbes in the mouth.<\/p> Nuts and Seeds<\/strong><\/p> Similar to raw vegetables, nuts and seeds help remove plaque while increasing saliva production. Not only that, but nuts and seeds contain enamel-building minerals, like:<\/p> Dairy Products<\/strong><\/p> Including cheese, yogurt, and milk, dairy products are fantastic foods to foster optimal oral health. These foods often contain the same enamel-building minerals found in nuts and seeds, which helps prevent dental erosion and cavities.<\/p> Furthermore, fermented dairy products (like yogurt) are an incredibly tooth-friendly alternative to replace sour cream-based dips, toppings, and desserts. The probiotic properties of plain yogurt help to keep the approximately 700 different kinds of oral bacteria in our mouths balanced in delicate harmony.<\/p> Cranberry Sauce<\/strong><\/p> We know what you\u2019re thinking\u2013isn\u2019t cranberry sauce too sugary to be healthy for my smile? Well, when it comes to store-bought cranberry sauce, that may be true. However, making your own cranberry sauce from scratch allows you to control the amount of sugar you add to your recipe.<\/p> Indeed, homemade cranberry sauce often has approximately half of the calories, carbohydrates, and sugar found in canned cranberry sauces. And with plaque-reducing polyphenols, cranberry sauce is a delicious way to get healthier teeth and arteries.<\/p> Ham<\/strong><\/p> Although ham is not usually the star of the menu, it may be an ideal addition to your Thanksgiving spread. Ham is high in protein, which helps us feel satisfied longer and prevents us from over indulging in tooth-destroying sweets or snacks.<\/p> Additionally, a single serving of ham delivers a whopping 9% of the suggested daily intake of zinc and another 11% of phosphorus. These two essential minerals help strengthen tooth enamel while also encouraging healthy gum tissue.<\/p> Turkey<\/strong><\/p> Of course, Thanksgiving wouldn\u2019t be Thanksgiving without turkey! And, luckily, there are several smile-friendly benefits of eating this classic holiday favorite.<\/p> Similar to ham, turkey is high in protein. But, more than that,\u00a0turkey contains essential nutrients<\/strong>, like:<\/p> Together, these nutrients help keep teeth strong while keeping the gums and lips supple and healthy.<\/p> Pumpkin Pie<\/strong><\/p> Indulging in sweets during Thanksgiving is common. But, this year, try choosing sweets that benefit your mouth and body, like homemade pumpkin pie.<\/p> Pumpkins contain magnesium, which, when combined with calcium, can strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. Furthermore, pumpkin contains both vitamin A and vitamin C, which keep soft oral tissues healthy and functional.<\/p> Want to limit the amount of cavity-causing sugar in your homemade pumpkin pie? Try swapping high-sugar ingredients for healthier alternatives, like:<\/p> Fresh Fruit<\/strong><\/p> Although this time of year usually brings heavier desserts, your guests may welcome an array of lighter dessert options, like fresh fruit. Not only do fresh fruits reduce the amount of sugar we eat in one sitting, but they also deliver healthy doses of vitamin C, which helps prevent gum disease.<\/p> Dental Care Tips for After Your Thanksgiving Feast<\/strong><\/p> Even a dental-friendly Thanksgiving meal can leave behind food debris. And, when food debris accumulates on the teeth and gum line, then oral bacteria can feast and multiply. As a result, you may end up with painful cavities and rapidly-advancing gum disease.<\/p> Therefore, it\u2019s still important to brush and floss regularly this holiday season. Here are some helpful tips to keep your smile healthy all year long:<\/p> Thank Your Smile with a Dental Checkup<\/strong><\/p> This year, celebrate Thanksgiving with smile-friendly foods. But, don\u2019t stop there\u2013keep the celebration going by\u00a0scheduling a dental checkup and cleaning<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0for you and your loved ones. Because keeping your smile healthy all year long is the gift that just keeps giving!<\/p>","_et_gb_content_width":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[11],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"\n\n
Need an Orthodontics Appointment For You or Your Child?<\/h3>\n