Orthodontic technologies have greatly improved the effectiveness, comfort, and aesthetic appeal of wearing braces for children covered by Medicaid in Illinois.
Many kids who were once concerned about having to wear large metal brackets and thick bands on their teeth for years are now enjoying healthy new smiles thanks to shorter, more discreet orthodontic care.
New Choices for Traditional Braces on Medicaid in Illinois
With traditional braces, brackets are glued to each tooth and held together by a metal loop that goes around the entire row of teeth. Modern advances have eliminated the thick steel bands and heavy brackets of the past. Today, stronger glues mean smaller, more tightly bonded brackets. Thick bands have been replaced by thin wires that are not only are harder to see, but also more effective at adjusting teeth.
These smaller, stronger components translate into fewer adjustment appointments, and ultimately a shorter treatment length. On top of that, they also improve oral health. Thick brackets and bands were difficult to clean around, and many patients suffered from tooth discoloration as a result. Over time, the exposed enamel around each bracket darkened from inadequate brushing, while the color underneath each bracket was protected; when the brackets were removed, lighter spots could be seen in the centers of many teeth. Thankfully, today’s braces rarely cause such a problem, provided patients brush regularly.
Consumer demand has also led to many cosmetic choices being made available to orthodontic patients. While stainless steel brackets are still most common, they can also be fashioned from ceramics or plastics, making them blend in more with the teeth. (Plastic brackets are discouraged for longer treatment schedules, as they tend to discolor over time.) Brackets, wires, and elastics are all available in a rainbow of colors. Clear components are also available, which make braces even harder to detect.
Invisible Braces
The latest news in orthodontics that has many people excited is the development of “invisible” braces. Instead of using brackets and wires, the approved Illinois Medicaid orthodontic provider develops snugly-fitting molds of the top and bottom rows of teeth. While in place, these molds apply firm but gentle pressure to misaligned teeth, encouraging them to move and straighten over time.
Computer technology helps the orthodontist or dentist to map out a progressive plan to properly align the teeth, broken down into multiple steps. At each step, the current mold is replaced with a new one that provides slightly more pressure than the last. Over time, the series successfully leads to straightened rows of teeth, without any need to undergo invasive braces installation and removal.
Generally, each mold is worn for two weeks. They must be worn all day and all night, but can be removed for eating and cleaning. This prevents the tooth discoloration that often accompanies traditional braces. Most patients experience slight discomfort on the first day of a new mold, but this disappears quickly as their teeth adjust to their new positions.
Invisible braces cost more than traditional braces, but for some, they are well-worth the extra investment. Not only are they easily hidden (unless someone is standing right in front of you), but they can also be removed on rare occasions, such as wedding photos, where someone would otherwise be uncomfortable being seen in braces.
Invisible braces cannot be used to treat every case. Even though invisible braces may be an option, traditional braces may provide a higher degree of success depending on your child’s current oral health condition. Only an approved Medicaid orthodontic (braces) provider can tell for certain whether or not invisible braces are a viable treatment option.
Does Illinois Medicaid Cover Orthodontic Braces for Children?
The short answer is YES – Orthodontic treatment with braces is available, although not all children will be approved by the State of Illinois Medicaid administrators. The requirements for approval depend on various factors such as the age of the patient, current oral health condition and the type of orthodontic treatment required. In general, the age requirements are children and individuals between the ages of 5 and 21 years who qualify for Medicaid in Illinois. These individuals may be entitled to certain dental services which are also considered to be “orthodontics”.
If you are considering orthodontic treatment with braces for your child and they are currently covered by Public Aid, Medicaid, All Kids, Tarjeta Medica or the Medical Card in Illinois, we can help. Dr. Gustav Kozina and Dr. Timothy Theobald are licensed providers of General Dentistry, Oral Surgery, Restorative Dentistry and Orthodontic treatment with braces and accept most dental insurance plans including Medicaid, Public Aid, Medical Card, Tarjeta Medica and All Kids in Illinois.
Unlike some providers, we do not limit the number of Public Aid, Medicaid or All Kids patients that we see. We do our best to accept every patient with Public Aid dental coverage and provide you with the quality care you expect and deserve.
