Orthodontic Financing & Insurance

What does orthodontic treatment cost?

Your child's estimate is based on their individual treatment needs and recommended plan. Ask how the proposed treatment, its scope and expected length affect the cost, and whether more than one approach is appropriate.

Before choosing a plan, make sure you understand:

• The total estimated treatment fee and what it includes
• Whether records, appliances, routine visits and retainers are included
• Any services or replacement items that may involve additional fees
• Your estimated insurance benefit and the amount your family would pay
• Any initial payment, monthly payments and payment due dates

If your child may need treatment in stages, ask which stage the estimate covers and how any later treatment would be evaluated and priced.

Monthly and interest-free payment options

SmileMaker offers in-house monthly payment plans and interest-free payment options. We'll review the options available for your proposed treatment so you can consider them alongside your family's budget.

Payment amounts, any initial payment, the payment schedule and other terms depend on your individual plan. Ask our team to explain those details before you choose a payment arrangement.

If you don't have orthodontic insurance, you can still ask about payment options for your recommended care.

Help understanding your orthodontic insurance

Bring your insurance information to your consultation. Our team can help review your orthodontic benefits and discuss the portion of treatment costs you may be responsible for.

Useful questions for your insurer and our team include:

• Does this plan include orthodontic benefits for my child?
• Do age limits, waiting periods or benefit limits apply?
• Is any approval needed before treatment begins?
• How will claims and benefit payments be handled?
• What happens if our coverage changes during treatment?

Benefits vary by plan. A benefits review or estimate does not guarantee coverage or payment; your insurer determines benefits under your policy. Confirm your expected coverage and financial responsibility before treatment starts.

Using an FSA or HSA

Flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) funds may be an option for eligible orthodontic expenses. Ask our team about using these funds for your payments.

Before using an account, confirm the expense's eligibility, payment or reimbursement timing, and required documentation with your plan administrator. Account rules differ, and an expense paid or reimbursed by insurance or another source generally cannot also be reimbursed through an FSA or HSA.

Questions to bring to your child's consultation

For a child ages 7–10, ask whether the next step is observation or treatment for a specific concern. An early evaluation does not automatically mean treatment needs to begin. If treatment is recommended, ask about its goals and whether another phase may be needed later. Learn about orthodontic care for children.

For a preteen or teen ages 11–15, bring questions about the recommended approach, daily care, appointments and what the estimate includes. Ask how any suitable treatment choices compare in cost and what each would involve for your child.

For either age group, bring your insurance details and a short list of payment questions. Tell us what you need to understand before making a decision. Adults considering their own treatment are welcome to discuss costs, insurance and payment options too.

Frequently asked questions

Is the initial orthodontic consultation free?

Yes. SmileMaker offers a free initial orthodontic consultation. It's an opportunity to discuss your child's orthodontic needs and ask about treatment and payment options.

Can we spread out treatment payments?

In-house monthly payment plans and interest-free payment options are available. Ask which arrangements apply to your treatment plan and review the individual terms, including any initial payment and payment schedule.

What if our insurance does not cover orthodontics?

Ask our team about the payment options available for your recommended treatment. We'll discuss the estimated cost and available arrangements before treatment begins.

Does one estimate include every phase of my child's treatment?

Ask the team to identify exactly what your estimate covers. If early treatment and a later phase are discussed, clarify whether they have separate fees and what will need reassessment as your child grows.

Talk through your family's next step

Request a free initial orthodontic consultation and let us know which office you prefer. We'll help you understand the recommended next steps and answer questions about costs, payment arrangements and insurance.

Request a free consultation

Call (615) 865-6551.

East Nashville
1077 E. Trinity Ln., Suite 101
Nashville, TN 37216
Office details and directions

Hendersonville
711 E. Main St., Suite 110
Hendersonville, TN 37075
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Submitting an online request does not reserve an appointment time. Our team will contact you to discuss scheduling.