Will the Military Pay for Braces?
The military has a long history of supporting the health and well-being of its service members, including providing medical care for various conditions and injuries. One common concern for many young people considering joining the military is the cost of orthodontic care, such as braces. In this article, we will explore whether the military will pay for braces and what service members can expect in terms of coverage.
Overview of Military Dental Care
The military provides comprehensive dental care to its service members, including routine cleanings, fillings, extractions, and other necessary procedures. The military also offers orthodontic care, including braces, to correct various dental issues.
Will the Military Pay for Braces?
The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. The military will pay for braces, but there are certain requirements and limitations that must be met.
- Service members with orthodontic needs: The military will pay for braces if the service member has a medical necessity for orthodontic treatment. This means that the treatment must be medically necessary to improve the service member’s overall health and well-being.
- Active duty and reserve component: Both active duty and reserve component service members are eligible for military dental care, including orthodontic treatment.
- Age limitations: There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment in the military, but service members under the age of 21 must have a medical evaluation to determine if the treatment is medically necessary.
Types of Braces Covered by the Military
The military covers a range of orthodontic treatments, including:
- Metal braces: Traditional metal braces are covered by the military.
- Clear aligners: Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are also covered by the military.
- Self-ligating brackets: Self-ligating brackets are covered by the military, but may have additional requirements and limitations.
- Damon braces: Damon braces are covered by the military, but may have additional requirements and limitations.
Cost of Braces in the Military
The cost of braces in the military is typically much lower than in the private sector. Here are some approximate costs:
| Type of Braces | Cost (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Metal Braces | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Clear Aligners | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Self-Ligating Brackets | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| Damon Braces | $5,000 – $10,000 |
How to Get Braces in the Military
To get braces in the military, service members must follow these steps:
- Schedule a consultation: Schedule a consultation with a military dentist or orthodontist to determine if orthodontic treatment is medically necessary.
- Get a diagnosis: Get a diagnosis from a military dentist or orthodontist, which will include a treatment plan and estimated costs.
- Fill out the DD Form 2896: Fill out the DD Form 2896, which is a dental treatment authorization form, and submit it to the military dental treatment facility.
- Get treatment: Once the form is approved, get the necessary orthodontic treatment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the military will pay for braces if the service member has a medical necessity for orthodontic treatment. The military covers a range of orthodontic treatments, including metal braces, clear aligners, self-ligating brackets, and Damon braces. While the cost of braces in the military is typically lower than in the private sector, service members must still follow certain steps to get treatment. By understanding the military’s policies and procedures, service members can receive the orthodontic care they need to improve their overall health and well-being.
