Best Dental Insurance for Braces and Orthodontics
Getting braces as an adult can be expensive, but having the right dental insurance can make it more affordable. Here’s a look at five of the best dental insurance plans to help you choose the right one for your needs.
1. Delta Dental
Pros:
- There are many Plan Choices: Delta Dental offers many plans, from essential to full coverage, so you can pick what works best for you.
- Good Coverage: They cover up to 50% of the braces cost for both kids and adults.
- High Annual Limits: They usually offer higher yearly coverage limits than other providers.
- Free Preventive Care: 100% coverage for check-ups and cleanings with no waiting period, so you can keep your teeth healthy.
Cons:
- Waiting Periods: You might have to wait a while before getting primary and orthodontic care coverage.
2. Aetna
Pros:
- Discounts on Braces: Aetna offers discounts on braces, sometimes for as low as $12 a month.
- Good Coverage: Some plans cover up to 75% of orthodontic costs, helping you save a lot.
- Free Preventive Care: 100% coverage for dental check-ups so you can get regular care without extra costs.
Cons:
- Referrals Needed: Some plans require a referral to see a specialist, which can be inconvenient.
- High Deductibles: Some plans have high deductibles, meaning you’ll have to pay more out of pocket before insurance starts.
3. Cigna
Pros:
- Extensive Network: Cigna has a large network of dentists, making it easier to find one near you.
- Affordable Rates: Their premium rates are competitive, so that you won’t pay too much for insurance.
- Braces Coverage: They cover braces, but you might have to wait before the coverage starts.
Cons:
- Waiting Periods: You might have to wait long before orthodontic benefits begin.
- Limited Coverage: They don’t cover dental implants, which could be a downside if you need them.
4. Aflac
Pros:
- Customizable Plans: You can tailor your policy with options for orthodontics, giving you flexible coverage.
- Easy Reimbursements: They offer direct deposit reimbursements, so you get paid back quickly.
- Choose Any Dentist: You can go to any dentist you like without restrictions.
Cons:
- Pricing Information: You must fill out a form or call to get pricing details, as it’s unavailable online.
- Employer-Only Plans: Some plans are only available through employers so you might have different options.
5. Humana
Pros:
- Variety of Plans: Humana offers many dental plans so you can find the right level of care.
- No-Yearly Limits: Some plans have no yearly payout limit, which is excellent if you need much orthodontic work.
- Free Preventive Care: 100% coverage for check-ups and cleanings with no waiting period.
Cons:
- Focus on Preventive Care: They focus more on preventive care than orthodontics, which might cover only some of your needs.
- Varied Coverage: Not all plans cover every orthodontic procedure, so you must check each plan carefully.
Insurance Plan | Orthodontic Coverage for Adults | Annual Maximum Benefit | Waiting Period | Monthly Premium | Notable Features |
Delta Dental | Up to 50% | $1,000 – $3,000 | 12 months | Starts around $20 | High annual maximum, covers braces after a waiting period |
Aetna | Up to 75% (discount plan) | No annual maximum | Varies | Around $12 | Discount plan, no referrals needed, high deductibles |
Cigna | Coverage varies by plan | $1,000 – $1,500 | 12 months | $19 – $35 | Covers braces, comprehensive dental care |
Aflac | Customizable (with rider) | Varies | Varies | Custom pricing | Customizable coverage and detailed online pricing are not available |
Humana | Varies by plan | $1,000 – Unlimited | Varies | Varies by plan | Emphasis on preventive care, flexible options |
Choosing the Right Plan
This guide can help you decide which dental insurance is best for your adult braces. Each plan has its benefits and downsides, so consider what’s most important to you, like how much coverage you get, how long you have to wait, and which dentists are included.
Sources: