Braces are an investment that pays dividends for the rest of your life. However, the technology and highly qualified specialist care, including post-treatment requirements come at a cost. Most orthodontists recognise that many people can’t afford treatment costs in one payment, particularly when it comes to braces, so they offer payment plans to lighten the load.
Payment Plans for Braces
Payment plans are a common way to pay for braces in Australia. It smooths out the cost of braces so they don’t need to be paid in full upfront. This helps make them more affordable, especially when many young families need to think about education and other daily expenses.
Orthodontic Payment Plans FAQs
Find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about payment plans for braces when you choose The Orthodontists.
Does a Down Payment Need to Be Made?
You don’t need to make a down payment well in advance of treatment. A deposit of 25% is due one week before the braces are applied.
Are Payments Made at Regular Intervals?
Yes, after the initial payment, you will need to continue to make regular monthly payments until the balance is paid in full.
What Are the Payment Intervals?
The standard interval for making payments is monthly, but if you would like to make more regular, smaller payments, please let us know.
Do I Claim on Each Payment with My Health Fund?
It’s always best to check with your health fund about when and how much you can claim from them. You will need to wait until the day of treatment/application to make a claim against the deposit. Most funds require you to claim over multiple calendar years rather than exhausting your rebate in the first year but ask your fund for details.
How Can I Make Payments?
You can pay by direct deposit or credit card, whichever you prefer. A receipt will be emailed to you.
I Don’t Have Health Insurance, Should I Take Out a Policy?
You will need to do your research to decide if it’s worth taking out a health insurance policy. Most health insurance funds require you to hold a policy for a minimum of 12 months before making any orthodontic claim. So, if you don’t claim a rebate for anything else, you could pay more in premiums than the value of your rebate. Some health funds offer smaller rebates for customers who have held an insurance policy for 12 months compared to customers who have been with the fund for five years.
Is Interest Payable on the Instalments?
No, you aren’t required to pay interest on instalments at The Orthodontists.
I Have Extras Health Insurance But It Doesn't Include Orthodontics, Should I Upgrade?
You will need to do your research and decide if it’s worth the additional cost in premiums compared to the claim you’re entitled to. We can provide you with the treatment codes so you can take them to your health fund to find out how much you can claim. Most health funds require you to wait 12 months after upgrading your policy to make a claim on orthodontics.
Should I Serve The Health Fund’s Waiting Period Before Starting Treatment?
Waiting 12 months before starting treatment isn’t a problem for most patients, however it does depend on the type of treatment. For example, if your child is having a plate that expands the upper jaw,, your orthodontist will consider your child’s age and the likelihood that the best time may occur prior to an during puberty. If delayed beyond this time, there are fewer early intervention orthodontic options available. Speak to your orthodontist about all the options available to you so you have the information you need to make an informed decision.
Is One Health Insurer Better Than Others for Rebates on Braces?
Health insurance funds have seen more people claim for orthodontics in recent years. Unfortunately, the rebates haven’t kept up with the cost of orthodontic treatments. Over the last 30 years, there has been a decrease in the relative rebate for orthodontic treatment.
If I Decide to Pay in Full Rather Than a Payment Plan, Is There a Discount?
Yes, if you make payment in full by the day the braces or Invisalign are applied, you will receive a discount of 5%. You are welcome to use any type of payment method.
Braces Payment Information
You can discuss your treatment and payment options in more detail during your consultation with one of our specialists. If you'd like to get in touch, make a call to your nearest clinic or contact us online.