The most common questions we get from our Johnson City, TN Invisalign and braces patients are about the cost of orthodontics. They want to know things like: How much do braces cost? Can I afford Invisalign? Are clear braces more expensive than metal braces? The concern is understandable. Orthodontic treatment is an investment and it’s always a good idea to know what the cost will be before kicking off the process. Unfortunately, sometimes, people will come across what seems like a great deal only to find out about additional fees that really drive up the final bill. At Sturgill Orthodontics, we’re one of the few practices in the area to offer pricing that is truly all inclusive, which makes our Johnson City orthodontic treatment affordable and gives patients complete transparency. There are never any surprises or hidden fees, so you can just focus on achieving your amazing new smile.
What is All-Inclusive Pricing for Orthodontic Treatment?
Think about an all-inclusive vacation where instead of paying for every meal, excursion or night at the hotel individually, you pay a single, flat rate and everything is included. You’re not surprised with additional costs, you save money and you can relax because you’re not constantly having to open your wallet. All-inclusive orthodontics is like that (well, there’s no beach or fancy dinners but you, your teen or your child get an awesome, healthy smile). When you come in for your free consultation, which you can schedule right here, our team takes photos and low-dose, digital x-rays and then Dr. Sturgill examines your teeth and jaws. When he has an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan, he will chat with you about your options and goals and help you decide on the straightening solution for you or your child. You’ll receive a flat rate before treatment starts. That’s it. That’s the price you’ll pay and there won’t be any unexpected items on your bill.
The price you receive includes everything – really! There’s no cost difference between metal and clear braces and we don’t charge extra for the toothbrush kit you get with braces, for progress x-rays or those taken at your consultation, additional appliances (i.e., Forsus, Herbst, expander) or laser procedures done during treatment. Your retainers, as well as retainer checks, which happen about a year and a half post-braces or Invisalign, are also included in the cost. This is important because retainers are absolutely necessary to maintain your results when you’re finished with braces or Invisalign, otherwise, your teeth will shift back to their old positions. To us, it seems kind of unfair to give patients their dream smile and then ask them to pay more for something that ensures it lasts. For that reason, retainers are part of the package at our practice.
Another big thing that’s included in our all-inclusive pricing are refinement trays for Invisalign patients. Certain patients need these extra trays to make the final tweaks, improve any slight imperfections they’re still worried about and get the best possible results. Some offices charge for these trays and depending on your needs and their fees, that can be pricey.
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What About Insurance for Braces and Invisalign?
We participate with many insurance plans at Sturgill Orthodontics and we’re a preferred provider for Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Tennessee and Delta Dental. Insurance coverage can further help make your Johnson City orthodontic treatment affordable because it will greatly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Many plans do offer coverage to people 18-years-old and under and others even have some orthodontic benefits for adults, however, it varies by plan. A lot of policies also have a lifetime orthodontic benefit that is distinct from dental insurance. You’ll want to find out about lifetime maximums, deductibles, whether work in progress is covered, waiting periods, age limits and if all types of treatment are included. Since we know how confusing it can all be, we’ll review your insurance information at your consultation to give you a better idea of your coverage and once treatment starts, we’ll file claims for you. If you don’t have orthodontic insurance or your benefits don’t cover as much you’d like, don’t worry. A health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) can be another way to save. If you have one through your employer, you might be able to reimburse yourself for part of the expenses that aren’t covered by insurance.
Financing Solutions for Your Budget
Another way we make treatment fit into our patients’ budgets is by offering all patients zero-interest payment plans. This will let you break up the cost of orthodontic treatment into monthly payments without incurring interest, so it’s more manageable. This is an especially big plus if more than one family member will be in treatment at the same time. We’ll discuss your options at your consultation and help you decide on the ideal choice for your needs.
To learn more about our all-inclusive orthodontics or find out which type of treatment will bring out the best in your smile, book a free consultation with our Norton, VA and Johnson City, TN orthodontist, Dr. Sturgill, today. We’ll create a customized treatment plan just for you, work to make orthodontics affordable for your budget and ensure you feel informed and confident about moving forward with your smile journey.