Orthodontic treatment, including braces and Invisalign, is an excellent investment in your smile and oral health. But many patients wonder: “Are braces and Invisalign covered by dental insurance?” The answer depends on your specific insurance plan, but many dental insurance providers offer partial coverage for orthodontic treatments. Here’s everything you need to know about navigating insurance for braces and Invisalign.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Braces and Invisalign?
Most dental insurance plans provide coverage for orthodontic treatment, but the extent of coverage can vary widely:
- Braces: Traditional metal braces are often covered partially by dental insurance, with typical coverage ranging from $1,000 to $3,000.
- Invisalign: Many plans now include Invisalign coverage, though it may be limited compared to traditional braces.
Orthodontic coverage typically falls under the “lifetime maximum” benefit for each insured individual, which is separate from your annual dental insurance maximum.
Factors That Affect Insurance Coverage
- Age Limits
- Some plans only cover orthodontic treatment for dependents under 18 years old.
- Adult orthodontic coverage is less common but available under select plans.
- Type of Treatment
- Traditional braces are more likely to be fully covered compared to Invisalign or ceramic braces.
- Certain plans may have restrictions or limits based on the type of orthodontic appliances used. Reviewing your policy can help clarify this.
- Preauthorization Requirements
- Many insurance companies require preapproval for orthodontic treatment to confirm coverage.
- Deductibles and Co-Payments
- Even with coverage, patients may be responsible for deductibles, co-pays, or expenses exceeding the lifetime maximum.
Dental Insurance Providers We Work With
Our office proudly partners with most major dental insurance providers, including:
- Delta Dental
- Cigna
- MetLife
- United Concordia
- Aetna
- United Healthcare
- Principal
- Guardian
- Blue California
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Anthem
- Tricare
- Medi-cal Dental (Denti-Cal)
- CalOptima
We also accept many other California-based and national insurance plans. If you don’t see your insurance listed, feel free to contact us—our team is happy to verify your coverage and explain your benefits.
How We Make Orthodontic Treatment Affordable
We understand that orthodontic care is a significant investment. To help make braces and Invisalign accessible to all, we offer:
- Insurance Verification: Our team will handle the process of verifying your insurance benefits and submitting claims on your behalf.
- Flexible Payment Plans: For out-of-pocket costs, we provide interest-free payment options to suit your budget.
- HSA and FSA Payments: Use your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds to pay for treatment.
- Special Discounts: Ask about current promotions, such as discounts for students, families, or military members.
Steps to Check Your Insurance Coverage
- Review Your Policy: Check your dental insurance plan for orthodontic benefits, age restrictions, and lifetime maximums.
- Consult Our Office: Schedule a consultation with our team, and we’ll handle the details to ensure you maximize your benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I get Invisalign if my insurance only covers braces?
Yes! While some plans specifically exclude Invisalign, many offer equivalent coverage. We can help you determine if Invisalign is an option under your plan.
2. What if my insurance doesn’t cover orthodontics?
If your plan lacks orthodontic coverage, we offer flexible payment plans to make treatment affordable. Additionally, FSAs and HSAs can help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
3. Does my insurance cover retainers after treatment?
Insurance typically does not cover retainers as a standalone benefit. However, retainers are usually included as part of the overall orthodontic treatment benefit. This means that if your treatment plan includes retainers, their cost will be factored into the total amount covered by your insurance, up to your lifetime maximum
Braces and Invisalign are often partially covered by dental insurance, making it easier to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. At our office, we work with all major dental insurance providers, including Delta Dental, Cigna, MetLife, United Concordia, Aetna, United Healthcare, Principal, Guardian, Blue California, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Anthem, Tricare, Medi-Cal Dental (Denti-Cal), and CalOptima, to help you maximize your benefits and minimize costs. Contact us today to verify your insurance and schedule a consultation for a personalized treatment plan. Achieving a straighter smile has never been more accessible. Let us help you navigate your insurance and get started on your orthodontic journey!