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How does dental insurance cover orthodontic treatment costs?

This article explains dental insurance coverage for orthodontic treatments, including age restrictions, annual coverage limits, exceptions for pre-existing conditions, and coverage for accident-related treatments.

Rob Schumacher avatar
Written by Rob Schumacher
Updated yesterday

Orthodontic treatment can be partially covered under Feather’s dental insurance, but eligibility and reimbursement limits depend on your age and the reason for treatment. If you’re considering braces or aligners, it’s important to understand what’s covered and when.

Who is eligible for orthodontic coverage under dental insurance?

Orthodontic treatment is covered only if you’re insured and begin the treatment before turning 21. The consultation and recommendation for treatment must also happen after your dental policy has started for the costs to be eligible for reimbursement.

What are the annual coverage limits for orthodontic treatment under dental insurance?

Coverage limits for orthodontics increase over time for eligible insured individuals under 21 as follows:

  • 1st calendar year: €150

  • 2nd calendar year: €300 (combined)

  • 3rd calendar year and after: coverage limit increases to a maximum of €2000 total reimbursement

After the third year, the maximum combined reimbursement amount is €2000 and does not increase further.

Will dental insurance cover orthodontic treatment started before the policy begins?

If the insured person has braces, retainers, or other ongoing orthodontic treatment prior to coverage, then that is consider a pre-existing issue. In this case, maintenance of those braces or any related orthodontic work would not be supported.

Is orthodontic treatment covered for individuals aged 21 and older?

For insured individuals aged 21 and over, orthodontic treatment is only covered if it’s medically necessary due to an accident that caused dental trauma—such as tooth movement following a car accident. If the need for orthodontics is cosmetic, or even medical but not related to an accident, the costs won’t be reimbursed.

Are there any exceptions to the coverage limits for orthodontics?

Yes. If orthodontic treatment is needed because of an accident that occurs after your policy starts, reimbursement isn’t subject to the standard limits. In these cases, a higher amount may be eligible for coverage.

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