How to Negotiate With an Orthodontist

Being told that your child requires orthodontic work may make you wonder if you can afford it. According to CostHelper.com, as of 2010, braces can cost from $3,500 to $7,600 or even higher. If you do not have insurance to cover the treatment, the expense can become a financial hardship on you and your family. You can reduce the impact on your pocketbook, but you will have talk to your orthodontist or an office representative.

Instructions

• 1

  Request a written breakdown of costs for all work that needs to be done. Inquire whether your orthodontist accepts your insurance, if you have any.

• 2

  Tell the doctor or office staff that you cannot afford the treatment and ask if the practice offers hardship discounts. If so, complete the necessary forms and submit the paperwork required.

• 3

  Make an appointment with another reputable orthodontist in your area for a free consultation, if you are not qualified for a hardship discount or your doctor doesn't offer one. Take the X-rays and complete dental file so that the doctor can give you an accurate estimate of the cost of work. Ask for the quote in writing.

• 4

  Take the other orthodontist's quote to your doctor, if your doctor's costs are higher. Ask your orthodontist to match how much the other doctor will charge, advises SmartMoney.com.

• 5

  Ask for a discount if you can pay the cost of the entire treatment up front with cash or a credit card. If you cannot pay off your credit card when the bill is due, make sure that the interest charged on your card won't be more than the value of the discount.

• 6

  Inquire about a multi-family-member discount if more than one person in your family needs orthodontia work. Your doctor's office may see the value of discounting one person's care when another is being treated at the same time.