Well, braces aren't covered under my insurance policy, and I know my 10-year-old is going to need them; I just don't know when. I haven't taken him in for a consult yet, because I know what they are going to say and I don't even want to know how much they are going to cost.

So, has anyone needed to get braces for their kids and pay full price? Are there payment programs? And can you recommend a great children's orthodontist?

K just got braces in May and she is going to Aguirre and Sappington, they are in Haile. We have only seen Dr Sappington and she is great. The consults are free. They like to wait until all of the baby teeth are gone before starting treatment, but they will see him for free consults until that braces are placed. Yes they do offer payment plans. The price will depend on the treatment that is needed. Good Luck, let me know if you need anymore info.

My daughter is 15. Her orthodontist is Dr. Bill Martin in Chiefland. I live in Newberry so it is very worth the drive. Dr. Martin practiced in Gainesville for more than 20 years but just in the last year moved to Chiefland. Full treatment was around $5000. We made a down payment of $800 and payments are around $150/month. Baby girl's mouth was a mess and also required oral surgery to remove a baby tooth and attached a chain to a tooth that had never dropped out of her pallet.

I did find out after we began treatment that my dental insurance covers up to $1000 of orthodontic treatment, woo hoo!!!

I've heard great things about Dr. Aguire's office, several of her friends go there. She has done very well and not complained at all. I think she is so proud to have a pretty smile again that it is simply worth it.

Good luck!