So how much do braces for your child’s teeth cost? Every parent knows that dental braces don’t come cheap. There are different types of braces — the traditional metal braces most people are familiar with, ceramic or clear braces, and lingual braces (put on the back of the teeth.)

The type of braces your child needs will definitely impact the cost, but the best way to find out the cost is to take your child for a consultation with a dentist or orthodontist.

Orthodontics: The Price of Braces

Braces are considered an orthodontic procedure. Orthodontists are dentists who specialize in aligning teeth and correcting how teeth come together when they’re closed (called the bite.)

Different types of braces cost different amounts of money, but the cheapest — traditional metal braces — start at around $3,000.  

Dental Insurance Benefits

Depending on your insurance plan, you might be able to get some help paying for braces, as long as your child is under 18. But always talk to your insurance company directly to see what exactly is covered.

Most insurance plans set maximum amounts they’ll pay out in one year. Make sure you see where you’re at in terms of your limit. 

Medicaid and Braces

Medicaid and CHIP state health programs may be resources for braces. Medicaid will often help cover the cost of braces if they are medically necessary. Medicaid does not cover the cost of cosmetic orthodontics — in other words, if the only reason for the braces is to have prettier teeth.

At Kool Smiles, we accept Medicaid at all our offices for general dental services; however, because Medicaid is different in each state, coverage for braces is not guaranteed. If you have questions about Medicaid coverage for braces, don’t hesitate to call us at (855) 854-3621. We’re happy to help you understand how the process works.

Talk to Your Child’s Dentist

Your child’s dentist is the best person to talk to when your child needs braces. This is because he or she will be able to help you understand about how much braces will cost, and connect you with an orthodontist.

At Kool Smiles, we will provide a no-cost consultation to help you understand your child’s options with braces. Many of our offices have in-house orthodontists, and if not, we are happy to refer you to one nearby. We have hundreds of locations nationwide, just call us at (855) 854-3621 to find a location near you!

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Sources: 

Oral B: http://www.oralb.com/embraceit/how-much-do-braces-cost