Lustig & Young Orthodontics - Team

Does Insurance Cover Braces? A Guide for Families in Fort Worth, TX

Posted on July 7, 2025

Does insurance cover braces? Two smiling teenagers, one with curly hair and braces, the other with freckles, embrace in a sunny park. The scene conveys happiness and friendship.

Getting braces is one of the best things you can do for your smile and oral health—but we know cost is often a concern. One of the most common questions we hear at Lustig & Young Orthodontics is, “Does insurance cover braces?”

The answer depends on your individual plan, but we’re here to make the process simple. Our team proudly serves families across Fort Worth, Saginaw, Haslet, and Azle, TX, helping patients understand their insurance coverage and design payment options that make orthodontic care accessible.

Understanding How Insurance Coverage for Braces Works

When you ask, “Does insurance cover braces?” the short answer is sometimes. Orthodontic benefits vary widely between dental insurance plans. Some offer comprehensive coverage, while others may have specific limits or age restrictions.

Here’s what you need to know before you start treatment.

Dental Insurance vs. Medical Insurance

Braces are typically covered under dental insurance, not medical insurance. However, there are a few exceptions. Medical insurance may cover braces if they are considered medically necessary—for example, to correct a jaw alignment issue that affects chewing, speech, or breathing.

Age Restrictions

Many dental insurance plans provide stronger orthodontic benefits for children and teens under 18, since braces are often considered part of normal dental development. Adult coverage is sometimes more limited, as adult orthodontics is often seen as elective.

If you’re an adult thinking about braces or Invisalign®, don’t worry—our team can help you explore your coverage and financing options.

Coverage Limits

Even if your plan covers braces, there are often limits in place. Common ones include:

  • Lifetime orthodontic maximums (for example, up to $2,000 per person)
  • Percentage of coverage (such as 50% of treatment costs)
  • Waiting periods before benefits begin
  • Deductibles and co-payments

Our insurance coordinators at Lustig & Young Orthodontics will review these details with you before treatment begins, so there are no surprises.

How to Get the Most from Your Insurance Benefits

Here are a few simple ways to maximize your orthodontic insurance coverage:

1. Review Your Policy Carefully

Read your plan documents and look for an orthodontics section. Pay attention to:

  • Age limits
  • In-network provider requirements
  • Deductibles and co-pays
  • Maximum benefit amounts

2. Contact Your Insurance Provider

If you’re unsure about something, call your insurance company directly. They can confirm coverage amounts, waiting periods, and eligibility requirements.

3. Get a Pre-Treatment Estimate

We can provide a detailed estimate (also called a predetermination of benefits) outlining your treatment costs and what your insurance is likely to cover.

4. Provide Documentation If Needed

Some insurance companies require proof that braces are medically necessary. We’ll handle this for you by submitting X-rays, photos, or notes from your consultation.

5. Choose an In-Network Orthodontist

Working with an in-network provider often saves you money. Lustig & Young Orthodontics works with a variety of insurance carriers to help patients make the most of their benefits.

What If My Insurance Doesn’t Cover Braces?

If your current plan doesn’t cover braces—or only covers part of the cost—you still have options.

Flexible Payment Plans

We offer customized payment plans that let you design your monthly payment to fit your budget.

FSAs and HSAs

Use pre-tax dollars from your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) to help pay for treatment.

Discount Opportunities

Ask about discounts for paying in full or for multiple family members starting treatment together.

Our goal is to make treatment affordable, no matter your situation.

Braces Coverage for Children vs. Adults

Insurance coverage often differs based on age:

  • Children: Most plans provide stronger orthodontic benefits for dependents under 18.
  • Adults: Adult orthodontic coverage varies. Some plans include partial coverage, while others exclude it.

At Lustig & Young Orthodontics, we’ll review your plan and explain what’s covered before treatment starts.

Can Medical Insurance Cover Braces?

While braces are almost always billed under dental insurance, there are exceptions. Some medical insurance plans may help if treatment is needed for:

  • Severe jaw misalignment affecting chewing or speech
  • Cleft lip and palate treatment
  • Sleep apnea that’s linked to dental alignment issues

If any of these apply to your case, we’ll help determine whether your medical insurance can contribute to treatment costs.

In-Network vs. Out-of-Network Orthodontists

Your choice of orthodontist can affect how much you pay out of pocket.

  • In-Network: Working with an in-network provider can lower your costs, since those offices have agreed-upon rates with your insurer.
  • Out-of-Network: If you choose an out-of-network provider, your plan may reimburse you at a lower rate, meaning higher out-of-pocket expenses.

Lustig & Young Orthodontics is proud to work with many leading insurance providers to make care as affordable as possible.

What If You Don’t Have Insurance?

The cost of braces depends on the type of treatment and the complexity of your case. Even without insurance, we’re committed to helping you find a plan that works for your budget.

We offer:

  • Flexible monthly payment plans
  • Interest-free financing options
  • Competitive pricing for all treatment types

We’ll walk you through every option and help you get started with a plan that feels comfortable.

Why Choose Lustig & Young Orthodontics?

Our team believes everyone deserves a confident, healthy smile—without the stress of confusing insurance paperwork or unexpected bills. From your first visit to your final adjustment, we’ll help you understand your benefits, explore your options, and create a plan that works for you.

Whether you live in Fort Worth, Saginaw, Haslet, or Azle, you’ll find a friendly team ready to help you navigate every step of your orthodontic journey.

Ready to Get Started with Braces?

Still wondering, “Does insurance cover braces?” Schedule a free consultation with Lustig & Young Orthodontics today.

We’ll review your insurance, provide a detailed treatment plan, and show you how to make braces or Invisalign® affordable for your family.

Your path to a straighter, healthier smile starts here.

Location is everything. Lucky for you we’ve got 4.

Choose the location closest to you.

Keller

8450 Park Vista
Fort Worth, TX 76137

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Saginaw

705 W Bailey Boswell, Ste 100
Saginaw, TX 76179

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Haslet

570 FM 156 S, Ste 200
Haslet, TX 76052

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Azle

1025 Boyd Road, Ste 100
Azle, TX 76020

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