A logical time for a trip to the orthodontist is related more to missing teeth than to chronological age. Your dentist will tell you when your child should see an orthodontist. Unfortunately, orthodontic work is costly; the current average cost of braces runs about $3,500. To watch costs, shop around. Get recommendations of orthodontists your friends have used, and check your employee health plan. A recent study conducted by the American Association of Orthodontists shows that 71 percent of people covered by dental plans through large employers have orthodontia benefits. Payments are usually spaced out over time, so you can probably arrange a workable payment plan with your orthodontist. If you have a dental school in your area, you might be able to get treatment through its orthodontia program (in which the work is performed by students under the supervision of professors) at half the normal cost. (This form of treatment may not be covered by your insurance, so check with your insurer first.) Once your teen has braces, be certain to get him a mouth guard if he plays sports. And if your teen gets a removable bite-plate or retainer, talk to him about the importance of keeping track of it. Replacement is expensive.
