Getting braces can be an expensive endeavor, with the national average cost being between $3,000-$7,000. For families struggling to make ends meet, this high price tag can make braces seem out of reach for their children. However, there are options for free or discounted braces in Minnesota for those who qualify.
Braces Coverage Through Insurance
The first option to consider is whether your dental insurance provides any orthodontic coverage. Many plans include at least a small allowance for braces, usually up to $1,000-$1,500. While this may not cover the full cost of braces, it can put a significant dent in the overall price.
When researching plans on the Minnesota health insurance marketplace, look closely at the orthodontic coverage included. Some plans may cover more extensive orthodontic treatment than others. If you have the option to select a plan through an employer, compare the orthodontic benefits before making a decision.
In addition, some dental insurance plans can be purchased separately to supplement health insurance. While often not a full coverage option, dental insurance can provide access to discounts and negotiated rates for braces treatment.
Sample Dental Insurance Coverage for Braces
| Insurance Plan | Braces Coverage |
|---|---|
| Delta Dental PPO | 50% coverage, up to $1,500 lifetime max |
| Humana Dental Loyalty Plus | 50% coverage, up to $1,000 lifetime max |
| MetLife PDP Plus | 50% coverage, up to $1,000 lifetime max |
This table displays sample orthodontic coverage from popular dental insurance providers in Minnesota. While they do not cover the full cost of braces, they provide significant savings off the overall price.
Medicaid Coverage for Braces
For low-income families in Minnesota, having a child enrolled in Medicaid provides the next potential avenue to receive braces coverage. Orthodontics like braces are covered under the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit for children under age 21.
To qualify for Medicaid orthodontic coverage in Minnesota, certain criteria must be met:
- The child must demonstrate a severe handicapping malocclusion, or misalignment of the teeth.
- The child must have a severe craniofacial anomaly or deformity, like cleft palate.
- The child must be between the ages of 3-20 years old.
- Treatment must meet medical necessity requirements.
A dentist must evaluate the child and submit documentation to show proof of a qualifying condition. If approved, Medicaid will provide comprehensive coverage of braces and orthodontic treatment with no out-of-pocket costs.
Minnesota Medicaid Orthodontic Coverage Requirements
| Age | Coverage Rules |
|---|---|
| Under 5 | Coverage only with craniofacial anomalies or deformities |
| Age 5-12 | Must demonstrate severe malocclusion |
| Age 12-20 | Must demonstrate severe malocclusion and treatment expected to last over 18 months |
This table outlines the Medicaid coverage rules for braces based on the child’s age. Older children must meet more stringent requirements related to severity and expected treatment length.
Discounted Braces through School-Based Programs
Some school districts in Minnesota may offer discounted braces through school-based orthodontic programs. These programs contract with orthodontists to provide braces for students at significantly reduced costs.
To qualify for school-based discounted braces, students are usually required to:
- Have a household income below a certain level
- Be between ages 10-18
- Have a moderate to severe misalignment or orthodontic problem
Treatment is often free or up to 70% off regular braces costs. Parents are responsible for a copay or monthly fee based on income level. Programs are grant funded, so availability is limited to select school districts.
Sample School District Braces Programs in Minnesota
| School District | Program Details |
|---|---|
| Minneapolis Public Schools | Free braces for students who qualify for free/reduced lunch |
| Saint Paul Public Schools | Braces for $1,500 copay for families under income thresholds |
| Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan | 70% discount for students grades 6-10 |
This table shows examples of school districts offering discounted braces programs. Availability is limited but can provide significant savings if offered in your local district.
Free Dental Clinics
Free dental clinics provide dental care at no cost for eligible low-income and uninsured residents. While options are limited, some clinics may be able to provide free or discounted braces:
- Children’s Dental Services – Nonprofit providing braces at about 70% off for qualifying families in MN. Sliding fee scale based on income.
- University of Minnesota School of Dentistry – Free or reduced braces on case-by-case basis for patients with complex treatment needs.
- Carities Family Clinic – Limited free orthodontic services based on availability from volunteer orthodontists.
These clinics rely on grants, donations, and volunteers to provide orthodontic treatment. Waiting lists may be long, and free braces are not guaranteed. But they can be one option for low-cost treatment.
Financing and Payment Plans
If low-cost options are not available, many orthodontic practices offer payment plans or financing options. Examples include:
- No-interest or low-interest payment plans spread out over 12-24 months
- Initial down payment, with low monthly installments for remainder of treatment
- Connection with third-party healthcare financing companies like CareCredit
- Discounts for paying full treatment cost upfront
Payment plans allow you to break the cost into smaller increments that are more affordable. Just be sure to understand all the terms and budget carefully to ensure you can make the monthly payments.
Conclusion
While braces are quite expensive, free or discounted options do exist in Minnesota for those who qualify:
- Check health and dental insurance coverage for allowances.
- Medicaid covers braces for children who meet requirements.
- School district programs offer discounts in some areas.
- Free dental clinics provide braces at no cost on limited basis.
- Payment plans allow budgeting costs over time.
Consult your orthodontist and research these options if struggling with the costs of braces treatment. With persistence, you may be able to find ways to obtain braces at reduced or no cost for your child.
