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A smile can make a great impression, but orthodontic treatment can be just as important for biting, chewing and speaking, as it is for a child’s confidence.
With orthodontal work and dental procedures costing up to $9,000 for an 18-month course
of treatment, you’ll want to find the best option for your child.
Teeth need to be realigned slowly and that’s what makes treatment expensive. HBF’s latest dental health report has revealed the out of pocket expenses for parents whose children had braces. Here’s some advice to make the expense
of braces more bearable.
Plan and prepare ahead
12 to 14 is the most common age range for braces. Jade Furness from HBF says if you think your
child might be needing them, plan in advance.
“Ensure your private health insurance policy includes major dental and or orthodontics, and get covered
at least a year before planning your first appointment with a specialist,” says Ms Furness.
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HBF claims data shows that the average out-of-pocket cost for orthodontic treatment for six to 17-year-olds is around $1,308
for a year. The cost of braces can depend on the complexity of your realignment and the orthodontist you choose, so break
the costs down to work out the best price.
"When you contact orthodontists, compare fees for initial consultations, fitting of braces and subsequent consultations.
By reducing the cost of each of these things, you can significantly reduce the expense of braces,” explains Ms Furness.
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