Financial Information
The cost of your orthodontic treatment will vary depending on your individual needs and treatment plan. Our staff will discuss with you the cost of your treatment and each available payment plan option, so that you can make the best choice for you and your smile. We will work with you to create a payment plan that fits your budget, and you will know what to expect before beginning treatment.
TO OUR PATIENTS WHO HAVE DENTAL INSURANCE
We will work with you and your insurance company to receive the maximum benefit possible under your policy. Please understand, however, that our primary financial relationship is with our patients and their families, not the insurance company. The fees we charge for services rendered to those who are insured are our usual and customary fees charged to all patients for similar services. Your policy may base its allowances on a fixed fee schedule, which may or may not coincide with our usual fees.
Orthodontic insurance differs from regular dental insurance in that it rarely pays for treatment in full. This benefit is usually paid out over the course of the treatment. You should be aware that different insurance companies vary greatly in the types of coverage available. Also, some companies pay claims promptly and others delay payments many months. To maximize your benefits, know your benefits before treatment begins! If you are not sure, contact your insurance company so that you know your total benefit amount, how much you can expect to pay, and when to expect payment.
We will generate insurance claim forms that will describe the orthodontic problem, the length of treatment and the financial arrangements. We will then submit these forms to your insurance carrier for re-imbursements to you for payments made for treatment.
Flexible Spending Accounts AKA Medical Spending Accounts
Flex plans are designed to allow families to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for out of pocket medical and dental expenses. Flexible spending accounts can be very beneficial and should be used whenever possible, they are however, strictly regulated. The facts are:
These programs are regulated by the government and there are general guidelines that must be followed
Payments made on account must be for services being rendered and should not be a pre-payment for future charges.
Funds are to be used for out of pocket expenses. If you have insurance coverage for treatment you must allow for what portion of the fee your insurance will cover. Documentation to receive reimbursement from your benefits administrator may be in the form of a receipt for payment or may require a statement of charges. Please check with your administrator.
Appointments scheduled for pre-treatment observation are excellent opportunities to plan ahead for the coming year. If you are eligible for a Flexible Spending account, please make sure that you make any appointments well in advance of the enrollment deadline. We will do our best to estimate anticipated expenses for the coming year.