At All Kids Dental Pediatrics and Orthodontics, we understand that orthodontic treatment is a big step for both your child and your budget. That’s why we’re sharing four practical ways to make treatment more affordable for families, with convenient office locations in Glenwood Springs, Rifle, Eagle, and Aspen, Colorado.

1: Flexible Financing - Break Up the Cost Without Breaking the Bank

Braces or clear aligners can be a significant investment, but there are flexible ways to make payments more manageable. Here are several options:

• Pay in full and receive a discount.
• Put down a deposit and split the remaining balance into monthly payments over 12–24 months.
• Extended financing through companies like OrthoFi, which offers customizable plans that fit your budget.

Just be sure to review the terms carefully. Ideally, your payment plan should have an APR of 10% or less, and some shorter plans may even offer 0% interest. Also, watch for any hidden fees for missed payments or extended treatment times.

2: Use Pre-Tax Dollars Like a Pro with FSAs & HSAs

If your employer offers an FSA or HSA, you can use pre-tax dollars to pay for qualified healthcare expenses  including orthodontic treatment.

• FSAs typically allow you to contribute up to $2,500 per year toward healthcare.
• HSAs may even allow you to cover the entire treatment with tax-free dollars.

Using these accounts can save you money and reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Just be aware of enrollment periods as most employers have open enrollment in November or June. Planning ahead can help you make the most of these savings tools.

3: Make the Most of Your Insurance Benefits

If you have orthodontic coverage through your dental insurance, it can make a big difference. Not everyone has this benefit, so if you do take full advantage!

• Check with your employer or insurance provider to understand your coverage.
• Some plans have waiting periods (often one year), so it helps to plan ahead.
• Good news: Many plans offer the same benefits whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network orthodontist.

When you visit us at All Kids Dental, we’re happy to provide a complimentary insurance benefits check so you can feel confident about your options.

4: Avoid Hidden Fees

Not all treatment costs are created equal. Some offices may advertise low starting prices but add extra charges along the way. These can include:

• Broken bracket fees
• Missed or canceled appointment fees
• Retainer costs
• Monthly fees if treatment takes longer than expected

These add-ons can increase your total cost significantly. In some cases, lower-cost offices may also use lower-quality materials, which could lead to longer treatment times and more frequent visits.

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