Child & Adult Orthodontics | Orthodontics

In Orthodontic Treatment Fees – part 1 and part 2 we discussed why there is such a wide range in orthodontic fees. To summarize it has to do with a combination of the orthodontists’ experience, type of work done, materials used and insurance categorization. “Orthodontic Treatment Fees” concludes below

So, all of these considerations and more, need to be evaluated by the consumer when “comparing” fees of different orthodontic practices. There is much to think about, but you should be able to recognize the “vision” each orthodontist has for his patients by spending some time asking questions and observing how thorough he is when he presents his “Problem List” and “Treatment Plan”. You’ll know what to do. Your intuition will help you find the right orthodontist for your family. Just ask yourself if the orthodontist is as motivated to deliver excellence as you are to receive it. My personal experience has been that people usually “end up” in an orthodontic practice that reflects their own core values.

If you want to know what we stand for, feel free to give us a call at Anderson Orthodontics, 281-578-0008. We’ll answer any questions we can for you.

What types of orthodontic materials are being used in your treatment? Orthodontic materials differ greatly in quality and in amount of technology put into their fabrication. Braces, wires, hooks, springs, etc. from one source could cost the orthodontist ten times more than from a source that sells inferior materials. Again “Apples to Apples”. All braces aren’t the same. If you are looking for the best orthodontist, you’d want him to use the highest quality materials on you or your child. Higher quality materials help the orthodontist deliver a higher quality service, all things remaining the same.  Have your orthodontist explain his treatment regimens and systems to you.

Another factor to consider is whether or not you are receiving orthodontic treatment under conditions put forth by “Insurance Plans”. Orthodontists can contract with insurance companies to treat patients covered under that plan for a significantly lower fee than he would normally charge. In order for the orthodontist to remain profitable in these cases he must treat patients on a “high volume” basis in a short period of time. Also, he may elect to forego certain types of treatment or appliances that would give the patient a more beautiful result, ie. better facial proportions, better lip fullness, increased smile breadth, etc., because the amount paid to him by the insurance company is insufficient to cover his costs in providing these services. Unfortunately, the focus in these “Insurance Plan Contract” cases can become “what can be done in the shortest amount of time” or “how many needed services can be ‘left out’ of the treatment plan” instead of “what can be done to give every patient the very best orthodontic treatment possible”.

There are many different insurance companies contracting with orthodontists. A few provide more funds for the orthodontist to work with than others. Also, some will work more closely with the orthodontist when made aware that the patient needs more than just a “set of braces”, ie. early treatment, soft tissue surgery, orthognathic surgery, dento-facial orthopedics, etc.

Orthodontic Treatment Fees – Part 3 will conclude this discussion next week. In the meantime if you have any questions about orthodontics and its related costs give us a call at Anderson Orthodontics, 281-578-0008.

Occasionally, a patient will come into our offices and ask why there is such a wide range in orthodontic fees. Well, there are several explanations for this.

First of all, the most obvious reason for fee disparity would be the amount of experience, knowledge and talent possessed by the orthodontist. Years in practice, yearly continued education hours, activity in study groups and awards won for clinical excellence are things to look for when choosing an orthodontist. Usually, an orthodontist’s fees are a reflection of his commitment to excellence.

Secondly, you must consider “what orthodontic issues are being addressed”. Are the teeth just being aligned or is an effort being made to do more? Are early intervention treatments being initiated to improve facial proportions, lip posture and fullness, profile aesthetics or to prevent the need for permanent tooth extractions later? Is the fee quoted for a specific amount of treatment over a specific number of months? Or, is the fee quoted for the Final Result? The consumer must compare “Apples to Apples” to accurately evaluate fees quoted to them.

Orthodontic Treatment Fees – Part 2 will continue this discussion next week. In the meantime if you have any questions about orthodontics and its related costs give us a call at Anderson Orthodontics, 281-578-0008.