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Dental insurance can help you pay for regular visits to the dentist to keep your smile healthy and clean in exchange for affordable monthly premiums. Plans provide coverage for many procedures and treatments, but some policyholders may need clarification on whether their dental policy covers braces. Let’s take a closer look at how dental insurance works when getting braces.
Dental insurance is a supplemental insurance policy that helps cover the costs of dental visits and procedures. Policyholders pay monthly premiums in exchange for coverage. If you get a dental policy from Aflac, you can receive enhanced coverage for preventative, basic, and major services.
Braces are considered orthodontic services. This means that while some dental plans cover braces for children, many plans lack coverage for patients over age 18.1 Although Aflac dental insurance doesn’t cover orthodontics, we do cover a wide range of other treatments and procedures.
The average cost of braces without insurance can range from $3,000 to $13,000.2 The material used for your braces can impact the cost:
| Material | Cost (without insurance) |
|---|---|
| Metal | $3,000 - $7,000 |
| Ceramic | $4,000 - $8,000 |
| Lingual | $5,000 - $13,000 |
Dental plans that offer coverage for braces typically cover 50% of the cost, up to a $1,500 maximum.3 However, policies vary in coverage and caps.
Several factors affect the cost of braces:2
Consider the following factors when looking for a dental plan that fits your needs:
Shop for multiple policies, comparing what they cover and in what amounts. For example, if you think you may need something specific in the future, consider getting a policy that offers coverage for what you need.
In general, policies with more extensive coverage will cost more. However, some policies with similar levels of coverage may cost more or less. Compare the cost of each policy against coverage amounts to ensure you’re getting the coverage you need that fits your budget.
Policies with higher premiums often have lower deductibles and vice versa. High-premium plans may work better if you need more frequent services, such as fillings. On the other hand, higher-deductible plans can save you money over time if you only need coverage for semi-annual cleanings and exams.
Policies may limit or exclude coverage or procedures. For example, a policy may only cover two yearly cleanings and exams. Another example, as mentioned, is that many policies don’t cover braces for patients over 18. Read a policy’s details to uncover any limits and exclusions before moving forward with it.
Dental insurance can be a cost-effective tool for getting the dental treatments you need, helping with basic services to more extensive procedures. Although many plans don’t cover braces for adult patients, Aflac dental insurance covers a variety of services that can help with the cost of maintaining a healthy smile. Chat with an agent today to learn more about your coverage options and get a quote.
1 Forbes — Does Dental Insurance Cover Braces? Updated September 1, 2023. https://www.forbes.com/health/dental/does-dental-insurance-cover-braces/ Accessed March 7, 2024.
2 GoodRx Health — How Much Do Braces Cost? A Cost Breakdown of 3 Different Kinds of Braces. Published November 17, 2022. https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/dental-care/how-much-do-braces-cost Accessed March 7, 2024.
3 ValuePenguin — The Average Cost of Braces. Updated January 10, 2024. https://www.valuepenguin.com/average-cost-braces Accessed March 7, 2024.
Coverage is underwritten by American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus. In New York, coverage is underwritten by American Family Life Assurance Company of New York.
In Delaware, Policies A81100–A81400. Policies A82100R–A82400R. In Idaho, Policies A81100ID–A81400ID. Policies A82100RID–A82400RID. In New York, Policies NY81100–NY81400. Policies NY82100–NY82400. In Oklahoma, Policies A81100OK–A81400OK. Policies A82100ROK–A82400ROK. In Virginia, Policies A81100VA–A81200VA. Policies A82100RVA–A82400RVA.
Coverage underwritten by Tier One Insurance Company.
Dental, Vision and Hearing: In Arkansas, Policy T80000AR. In Delaware, Policy T80000. In Idaho, Policy T80000ID. In Oklahoma, Policy T80000OK. In Oregon, Policy T80000OR. In Texas, Policy T80000TX. Not available NY or VA. Dental claims are administered by Aflac Benefits Solutions, Inc. Vision claims are administered by EyeMed Vision Care, LLC. Hearing claims are administered by Nations Hearing.
NOTICE: The coverage offered is not a qualified health plan (QHP) under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) and is not required to satisfy essential health benefits mandates of the ACA. The coverage provides limited benefits.
Tier One Insurance Company is part of the Aflac family of insurers.
This is a brief product overview only. Coverage may not be available in all states, including but not limited to DE, ID, NJ, NM, NY or VA. Benefits/premium rates may vary based on state and plan levels. Optional riders may be available at an additional cost. Policies and riders may also contain a waiting period. Refer to the exact policy and rider forms for benefit details, definitions, limitations and exclusions. For complete details, including availability and costs, please contact your local Aflac agent.
Aflac WWHQ | Tier One Insurance Company | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999
Z2400234
EXP 4/25
