Orthodontic work can be expensive, but is often necessary to correct dental alignment problems and to create a more aesthetically pleasing smile. Depending on where you live, you may be able to find several sources for affordable braces, so it is important that you do your research in order to find the best orthodontic services for your needs. If you do not have dental coverage, you may want to seek out affordable braces through dental schools, dental clinics as well as private dentists who offer payment plans.
When you begin looking for affordable orthodontic work, find out whether there is a school of dentistry near the area where you live. In many cases, dental schools operate clinics that are open to the public. Dental students provide dental care, including orthodontics, at reduced rates while working under the supervision of their instructors. You may be able to get affordable braces through one of these student clinics.
If you do not live near a dental school, dentists in your area may still provide care through dental clinics that provide services to low income people. You may need to meet certain income guidelines in order to receive dental care through one of these clinics, but it may be your best opportunity to obtain affordable braces. To find out about dental clinics in your area, contact social service agencies to find out about services that may be available to you.
Some dentists offer affordable braces through payment plans or other financial arrangements. If you do have some cash saved, you may be able negotiate a cash discount with an orthodontist if you agree to pay for your braces in one payment. On the other hand, if you do not have cash saved, but do have a regular income, you may be eligible for a payment plan. You may be able to arrange to make monthly payments on orthodontic work.
If you do work with a private dentist, be sure to research his reputation before agreeing to have any work done. While getting affordable braces is generally a good thing, you don't want to suffer the consequences of bad dental work. In situations where you work out a payment arrangement, be sure to ask whether there are any finance charges added to your payments. If you can find several dentists of equal skill who offer payment plans, you may wish to compare the terms of these plans and select the payment option that is the most beneficial to you.