Angie's List: Plan Ahead For Cost Of Braces
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - If you suspect that your child needs braces, prepare for spending thousands of dollars.
However, Angie's List has some tips for how you can plan ahead for the cost of braces.
"When I got the braces, they hurt a little bit at first, but it really wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be," Kelsey Vergon said.
Vergon and her two brothers have had braces and retainers. But, her mother, Tamara, wants to advise others before you meet with an orthodontist, be prepared for this can be very costly and to plan ahead.
"Orthodontia can be expensive. They were all about the same and the total was right around $18,000, between $18,000 and $20,000 thousand for all three," Tamara Vergon said.
When planning for the price of beautiful teeth, make sure to think about the entire process. People sometimes think about just braces, and don't realize there can be dental work prior to getting them. There are also tightening appointments once they are put on. And when the braces are off, they will need to wear retainers.
"Most patients get removable retainers and they wear the top retainer full-time for about six months to a year and I have them wear the bottom retainer every night," Dr. Robert A Stoner said.
Retainers can also become costly, especially if they are broken, lost or thrown away. Tamara said this has happened to her family before.
"My son had taken it out and covered it with a napkin and just forgot. We did go through the restaurant garbage, and we did find it and sterilize it. I think our dog got ahold of it as well. It was left on a nightstand. We didn't think our dog would do that," Tamara said.
"When selecting your orthodontist you don't want to rely on price alone. Braces will typically cost anywhere from $4,000 to $7,000. Also, check the credentials of the orthodontist. How long have they been practicing? Are they are member of the American Board of Orthodontists? And, do they accept your insurance. These are all important factors in making your decision," Angie Hicks from Angie's List said.
Not all orthodontists are going to charge the same price, so be a savvy consumer and shop around. You can also consult with an orthodontist to see if prices are negotiable.
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