If you or your children need braces or Invisalign, now is the time to plan ahead! Visit Walton & Maready Orthodontics to learn about how you can afford a new smile!
Open enrollment is right around the corner for most Americans with healthcare coverage through their work. During open enrollment, you can adjust insurance coverage and set aside pre-tax money to pay for qualifying medical expenses. Orthodontic treatment for children and adults is a qualifying healthcare expense, and even if you already have braces, you can set aside money to pay for the adjustments and treatments you will receive in 2020.
Start with a free exam
Call us at (919) 335-9230 before the end of open enrollment and the adjustment period. Initial exams, including X-rays and an evaluation, are free.
First, we’ll examine your teeth (or your child’s teeth) and discuss what type of orthodontic treatment might be necessary. We’ll give you a timeline and an estimate of the cost of Invisalign or braces (whichever you choose). We’ll review payment options available to you through our office.
Choose the Right Type of Braces
Different types of braces come with varying costs. Traditional metal braces are generally the least expensive option, while clear aligners, ceramic braces, and lingual braces tend to be pricier. Discuss with your orthodontist the most cost-effective solution that meets your needs and preferences. Sometimes, a combination of treatments can provide the desired results at a lower cost.
Maximize orthodontic insurance coverage and HSA/FSA
It might be possible to select a dental insurance plan with orthodontic coverage. Many patients cover the co-pays, deductibles, and over-limit amounts of orthodontic treatment with money from a health care savings account or flexible spending account. Pre-tax money goes into these accounts, so it’s like getting a 25% deduction* on the cost of braces that’s not covered by insurance!
Some people may want to schedule their treatment to take advantage of orthodontic insurance annual reimbursement limits. We can help you evaluate this option.
Even if you already have braces, you are allowed to pay for current-year (2020) orthodontic expenses, such as appointments, retainers, wax, and other supplies, with HSA or FSA money. We accept HSA debit cards at Walton & Maready Orthodontics.
Consider Payment Plans and Financing Options
Many orthodontists offer payment plans to make the cost of braces more manageable. These plans allow you to spread the expense over several months or years. Some offices also provide in-house financing options or work with third-party lenders that specialize in healthcare financing. Always compare interest rates and terms to find the most affordable option.
Are braces tax deductible?
The in-year cost of orthodontic treatment is a qualifying medical expense that can be deducted on your income tax return. However, current tax law limits the medical expense deduction to the amount of medical expense that is greater than 7.5% of your AGI (annual gross income). Note that if you pay for orthodontic treatment or Invisalign with HSA money, you cannot deduct the cost of braces on your tax return.