Blog Post

Insurance & Orthodontics

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At Jolley Orthodontics, we believe that everyone deserves a confident smile and we understand that the cost of braces or Invisalign® can be a significant investment. Fortunately, dental insurance often helps with orthodontic costs and we’re here to guide you through what to expect with insurance coverage, how Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) can be used, and the options we provide to make orthodontic treatment affordable and accessible.


Insurance Coverage for Braces and Invisalign


Dental insurance often covers a portion of orthodontic treatment, but the level of coverage varies based on your specific plan. Each insurance provider approaches orthodontics differently, with coverage dependent on the type of treatment, age of the patient, and specific plan details. Here’s what you need to know:



  1. Coverage Differences: Some plans may cover a percentage of the cost, while others provide a fixed benefit amount. Additionally, certain plans set a lifetime maximum for orthodontic coverage, meaning they may cover a set dollar amount per person or per family member.

  2. Age Limits: Many insurance policies set age limits for orthodontic benefits, sometimes only covering braces or Invisalign for patients under a certain age. Check with us if you’re unsure about how your plan applies.



Here to Help with Insurance Verification


Jolley Orthodontics accepts a wide variety of insurance plans. To streamline your visit, you can give us your insurance information over the phone or you can bring a copy of your insurance card to your first consultation—our team is more than happy to verify your coverage and explain any benefits during your initial smile analysis.



Using HSAs and FSAs


HSAs and FSAs are great options for covering orthodontic expenses with pre-tax dollars, helping reduce the out-of-pocket cost of treatment. Here’s a quick overview of how these accounts work with orthodontic treatment:


  1. Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): HSAs allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars to use for eligible medical expenses, including braces and Invisalign. Unlike FSAs, HSA funds can roll over year to year, making them a flexible option for orthodontic treatment.

  2. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): FSAs are similar but have a "use-it-or-lose-it" policy, meaning funds generally expire at the end of each year. Using FSA funds on orthodontic treatment can be a smart way to maximize your account before the year ends.


Whether you have an HSA or FSA, our team can help you understand how to use these accounts to cover treatment expenses.


Making Orthodontic Treatment Affordable


At Jolley Orthodontics, we want everyone to have access to a healthy, beautiful smile. Besides insurance and HSAs/FSAs, we offer flexible payment plans to make orthodontic care accessible and manageable:



  1. Customized Payment Plans: Many patients find it helpful to spread the cost of treatment over several months or years. Our team offers in-house payment options with low or no interest, which can be tailored to your budget.

  2. All-Inclusive Pricing: Ask about our all-inclusive pricing, which can cover your braces, aligner trays, regular adjustments, emergency visits, and retainers post-treatment.



Questions to Ask About Insurance


To ensure you feel comfortable and informed, consider asking the following questions before starting treatment:



  1. What percentage of my treatment will my insurance cover?

  2. Is there a lifetime maximum or age restriction for orthodontic benefits?

  3. Do I need to visit an in-network orthodontist?

  4. Can I use both my insurance benefits and HSA/FSA funds for my treatment?



We’re happy to answer these questions and clarify any insurance details. At your initial consultation, our treatment coordinators will go over your specific charges and fees, outlining what your insurance may cover and what your out-of-pocket expenses could be.



Your Smile Investment at Jolley Orthodontics


Investing in orthodontic care is not only about enhancing your smile but also about improving your overall oral health and confidence. Dr. Jolley and our team are here to help you navigate insurance options, financing, and the most effective treatment plans to make orthodontic care accessible for you and your family.


Ready to learn more? Schedule your consultation today, and we’ll help you explore all your options to create a smile you’ll love for years to come!