General Questions

What is an orthodontist?

Orthodontists are dentists that specialize in correcting the bite and alignment of the teeth.

How long do visits normally take?

Most visits are 45 to 60 minutes.

How long will I be in treatment?

Treatment time can vary considerably amongst patients, based on growth, how well parts of braces are worn and if you come to all scheduled appointments. Your orthodontist will give an estimated completion time at the beginning of treatment and will inform you if this timeframe changes.

What if something is loose or broken, or is poking or hurting?

You will receive information on how to manage common orthodontic urgencies at home. Most broken or loose appliances can be taken care of at your next regularly scheduled appointment. Please call the Orthodontic Treatment Program at (614) 722-5602 if you have any questions or concerns.

What if something happens outside of your normal clinic hours?

You may leave a voicemail for the Orthodontic Treatment Program. Voicemails are checked periodically when the office is closed.

What is the cost of orthodontic treatment?

Active treatment fees range from $4,000 to $6,500. This does not include fees for the consultation, case presentation, observation or other services provided before the start of active treatment. The Orthodontic Treatment Program does not provide complimentary or free of charge consultations or x-rays.

Back to Top

Questions About Insurance

Will medical insurance cover the cost of orthodontic treatment?

No. Orthodontic services are typically not accepted/covered by medical insurance and only considered in cases caused by accident or injury. The State of Ohio does not mandate by law orthodontic coverage of cleft lip/palate or any other pre- existing medical conditions, even in preparation for surgery.

I believe my medical insurance will cover orthodontic treatment. Will you submit the claim to medical insurance?

If your child’s medical insurance plan will consider coverage of orthodontics for a “congenital anomaly”, it is your responsibility to provide documentation from the insurance company detailing this benefit before the start of treatment. Orthodontic fees will only be considered for submission to medical insurance after this documentation is received. Once services are billed, the Orthodontic Treatment Program will not retroactively follow up for authorization/coverage of treatment.

Will my dental insurance cover the cost of orthodontic treatment?

Most dental plans do not fully cover the cost of orthodontic services. Some dental plans do not offer orthodontic coverage at all. Check with your insurance provider to find out about your plan benefits for orthodontics.

Does the Orthodontic Treatment Program offer payment plans for braces?

We offer payment plans to help meet the financial needs of our patients. Automatic payments are required for any remainder that is not paid in full at the start of treatment. You may choose to use your Mastercard, Visa or Discover card. Funds from HSA or FSA may be used. Nationwide Children’s Hospital does not participate in CareCredit.

Is financial aid available?

We do not offer financial assistance for dental and/or orthodontic services performed in the Orthodontic Treatment Program.

Will Medicaid cover the cost of orthodontic treatment?

Sometimes. Medicaid coverage of comprehensive orthodontics is limited to the most severe orthodontic conditions for children under age 21. A prior authorization is required to determine medical necessity. Claims must be submitted to primary insurance for payment before Medicaid or BCMH will honor payments of approved services.

Will BCMH cover the cost of orthodontic treatment?

Sometimes. A prior authorization for orthodontic services is required (brochure available upon request). Claims must be submitted to primary insurance for payment before BCMH will honor payments of approved services.

Why is it important to notify the Orthodontic Treatment Program of changes in coverage?

Orthodontic (dental) benefits are paid over a period of time which varies depending on your insurance. If insurance changes before the maximum benefit, you may be responsible for the balance.

Back to Top