How to Get Braces with Little or No Down Payment

Getting Braces with Little or No Down Payment

The cost of traditional braces typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000 depending on your treatment plan. Many orthodontists require down payments of 20-50% to start treatment. But is it possible to get braces with little or no down payment? Let's explore some of your options.

Insurance Coverage

The first option is to determine if you have orthodontic coverage on your dental insurance plan. Many policies include at least partial coverage for braces for children and sometimes adults too. Typically there are no upfront costs if you visit an in-network orthodontist.

However, insurance braces coverage for adults is less common. Make sure to call your insurance company to verify your exact orthodontic benefits and any potential out-of-pocket fees you may have to pay throughout treatment.

Financing Plans

If insurance won't cover the full cost of braces, financing through the orthodontist is often the next best option. Many orthodontic practices offer monthly payment plans through third party financing companies like CareCredit or Springstone.

These plans allow you to pay for braces through manageable monthly payments over 12-24 months. Interest rates usually range from 10% to 20% depending on your credit score.

While approval is not guaranteed, these financing plans do not require money down to get started. Just be sure to budget carefully so you can make those monthly payments.

Discount Dental Plans

Joining a dental savings plan like DentalPlans.com provides access to discounted rates on braces and orthodontic treatments from within their network. Depending on the plan, coverage can range from 10% to 60% discounts.

There are no upfront fees to enroll, allowing you to start braces with low or no down payment. Just keep in mind you need to remain an active member to receive the savings.

Dental Schools

Getting braces through a dental school program is another way to reduce costs. Orthodontic residents provide treatment under close faculty supervision at a fraction of the cost.

Most dental schools do not require down payments for braces or orthodontic treatment. Just keep in mind that appointment availability is limited and treatment may take longer.

Payment Plans with Your Orthodontist

If the options above are not feasible for you, some orthodontists may be willing to arrange a customized payment plan for braces with low or no down payment. This allows you to break up the cost over a set repayment period.

Not all orthodontists offer in-house payment plans, but it's worth asking upfront if they are open to working with your budget. Just be sure to get all payment terms in writing before starting treatment.

Low Down Payment Braces Options

If you cannot find a braces option with zero down payment, here are some ways to minimize the initial costs:

Choose Metal Braces

Conventional metal braces are the most budget-friendly option, costing $3,000-$6,000 on average. While still an investment, metal braces require lower down payments than other types which start around $500-$1500.

Avoid Ceramic or Lingual Braces

Ceramic braces blend in better but cost more, with down payments from $800-$2000. Lingual braces behind the teeth are the most expensive with down payments of $1500-$3000+.

See an Orthodontic Chain

Large orthodontic chains that share resources can offer treatment at lower prices. A chain may require around a $500 initial down payment for traditional braces.

Select a Limited Treatment Plan

If you only need to correct minor spacing or crowding issues, limited orthodontic treatment may have lower down payment costs. Talk to your orthodontist about your options.

Time Treatment with Insurance Benefits

If insurance will cover part of your braces treatment, time it to maximize your benefits and reduce down payment costs. Check when your annual maximum resets.

Negotiate a Payment Plan

Ask your orthodontist if they are open to reducing the down payment or setting up a payment plan without interest to make braces more affordable.

Creative Ways to Pay for Braces

If you are struggling to come up with money to cover any down payment for braces, here are some creative ideas to consider:

Use Flexible Spending or HSA Funds

Pay for braces with pre-tax dollars from a Flexible Spending Account or Health Savings Account. You can elect to set aside funds from each paycheck.

Browse Orthodontic Scholarships

Yes, some scholarships do help fund orthodontic treatment! Check organizations like the AAO Foundation and Smiles Change Lives.

Take Out a Personal Loan

An unsecured personal loan allows you to borrow exactly what you need for braces and pay it back over time. Compare interest rates across multiple lenders first.

Use a Credit Card with a 0% Intro APR

Apply for a new credit card offering 0% interest for 12-18 months. Use it to pay the down payment, then be sure to pay it off before rates increase.

Crowdfund Your Braces

If the above options do not work, consider creating a GoFundMe campaign to crowdfund your braces down payment and treatment costs from friends and family.

Braces Alternatives with Low Down Payments

Here are some alternatives to traditional braces that have lower or no down payment options:

Clear Aligners

Popular clear aligner brands like Invisalign offer payment plans starting at $0-249 down. Treatment costs range from $3,000-$8,000 overall.

Dental Savings Plans

A dental savings plan through DentalPlans.com provides up to 60% off clear aligners from their network with no down payment.

Direct-to-Consumer Aligners

New direct-to-consumer companies like Byte and SmileDirectClub offer aligners for $80-$250 down. Total treatment is $1,900-$2,500.

Over-the-Counter Aligners

OTC aligners from retailers like Walmart and CVS range from $40-$100 per set. No prescription or down payment is needed.

Key Tips for Affording Braces

Here are final tips to make braces more affordable:

• Shop around for orthodontists and compare costs.
• Ask what payment plans or discounts are available.
• Consider dental schools and orthodontic chains.
• Look into insurance, financing, payment plans, and other assistance programs.
• Talk to your orthodontist and explain your financial constraints.

With some savvy shopping and planning, it is possible to get braces with low or no down payment. Weigh all your options to find the most budget-friendly path to your perfect smile!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.