Orthodontic Coverage

Example

“The Smiths were relieved their dental plan included orthodontic coverage when their daughter needed braces, as it would pay 50% of the $6,000 treatment cost after the waiting period.”

Memory Tip

Think 'Orthodontic = Organized teeth' - this coverage helps pay to organize crooked teeth into straight smiles.

Why It Matters

Orthodontic treatment can cost thousands of dollars and is often considered essential for children's health and self-esteem. Having orthodontic coverage can make this treatment financially accessible for families and prevent parents from having to choose between their child's dental health and other financial priorities.

Common Misconception

Many people assume orthodontic coverage works like regular dental coverage with annual maximums, but orthodontic benefits typically have lifetime maximums (often $1,000-$2,000) and may require waiting periods of 12-24 months before coverage begins. The coverage percentage is also often lower than routine dental care.

In Practice

The Johnson family has dental insurance with $1,500 lifetime orthodontic coverage per child at 50% coinsurance. Their 12-year-old needs $4,500 worth of braces. After meeting the 12-month waiting period, insurance covers 50% of costs up to the lifetime maximum, paying $1,500. The family is responsible for the remaining $3,000, which they can often pay in monthly installments to the orthodontist.

Etymology

From Greek 'orthos' (straight) and 'odont' (tooth), literally meaning 'straight teeth,' combined with 'coverage' from Old French 'covrir' (to cover).

Common Misspellings

Related Terms

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Other insurance terms you should know

See Also