Orthodontic treatment is a big step for your smile and your budget. Dr. Manzella and our team at Manzella Orthodontics know how overwhelming it can feel to figure out your insurance coverage and manage the costs. That’s why we’ve pulled together some tips to help you get the most out of your benefits. With a little planning, you can make orthodontic treatment in West Seneca, Buffalo, ,and Orchard Park more affordable without the headache.
Get Familiar With Your Insurance Plan
The first step to maximizing your insurance benefits is understanding exactly what your plan covers. Insurance benefits for orthodontic treatment can be tricky to navigate, with lifetime caps, age restrictions, and specific treatment stipulations. Here’s what to check:
- Lifetime Maximums: Unlike regular dental insurance, orthodontic coverage often comes with a lifetime limit instead of an annual one. Know this number before starting treatment.
- Age Restrictions: Some plans only cover braces or aligners for patients under a certain age, so it’s important to confirm eligibility.
- Pre-Authorization Requirements: Many insurance companies require you to get approval before treatment starts. Skipping this step could mean unexpected out-of-pocket costs.
Sharing these details with our team at Manzella Orthodontics can make a big difference. We’ll help you navigate your plan and ensure you’re not leaving any benefits on the table.
Stick With an In-Network Orthodontist
One of the easiest ways to save on orthodontic care in West Seneca is to choose an in-network provider. When Dr. Manzella partners with your insurance company, it means they’ve already agreed to lower service rates. That translates to smaller bills for you.
Beyond the cost savings, working with an in-network orthodontist also streamlines billing. Since we’re familiar with your insurance company’s policies, we can handle the paperwork and reduce surprises. If you’re unsure whether Manzella Orthodontics is in-network for your plan, give us a call, and we’ll help you figure it out.
Use Your FSA or HSA
If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or a Health Savings Account (HSA), this is the perfect time to put those funds to good use. These accounts allow you to pay for medical expenses, including orthodontic care, with pre-tax dollars. Here’s how to make them work for you:
- Plan Ahead: If you know braces or aligners are in your future, increase your contributions during open enrollment to cover more of the costs.
- Watch the Clock: FSA funds often have a “use it or lose it” rule, meaning they expire at the end of the year. HSAs, on the other hand, roll over, giving you more flexibility.
- Combine Savings: Pairing your FSA or HSA with insurance benefits can help minimize out-of-pocket expenses significantly.
If you’re unsure about how to use your FSA or HSA for treatment, our team is happy to explain the details.
Timing Is Everything
When it comes to orthodontic treatment, timing can play a big role in how much you save. Most dental insurance benefits reset at the start of the year, so unused benefits don’t carry over. By starting treatment toward the end of the year, you can maximize your current benefits while setting yourself up to use next year’s as well.
Many orthodontic offices, including Manzella Orthodontics, offer flexible payment plans. These plans make it easier to spread out the cost of treatment while still taking full advantage of your insurance benefits.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask About Discounts
Not everything has to go through insurance to save you money. Some orthodontic offices offer discounts for paying in full or for treating multiple family members. While these won’t replace the value of insurance, they’re worth looking into—every little bit helps!
Our Team is Here For Any Questions
Orthodontic treatment doesn’t have to feel like a financial hurdle. With the right approach, you can make the process much more manageable. From understanding your insurance plan to using FSAs or HSAs, choosing an in-network provider, and asking about discounts, there are plenty of ways to reduce costs.
At Manzella Orthodontics in West Seneca, Dr. Manzella and our team are here to guide you through every step of the process. Have questions about your benefits or want to explore your options? We’re just a call away and always happy to help!