US DentalCompassRichard Byrd, DDS
Braces
Practice location
HOWARD UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF DENTISTRY600 W ST NW, Washington, DC 20059Education
License
About braces
An orthodontist straightens teeth and corrects bite problems with braces and aligners. Medicaid generally covers orthodontics for children only when a problem is severe enough to be medically necessary.
Paying for a visit
This is a dental school clinic. Treatment is given by students under faculty supervision, usually for less than a private practice charges, but appointments are longer and there is often a screening visit first. Dental school clinics: what to expect, and is it worth it?
In District of Columbia, adult Medicaid covers a broad range of adult dental care. Children are covered in every state through Medicaid and CHIP, whatever the adult rules. What District of Columbia Medicaid covers, service by service
Questions to ask when you call
- Are you taking new patients, and how soon is the first appointment?
- Do you see children of my child's age, and do you take their Medicaid or CHIP plan?
- Do I need a referral from a general dentist first?
- Do you offer reduced fees or a payment plan for patients without insurance?
- What will the first visit cost me, and what will it include?
A dentist registered at an address may work there only some days, or may have moved on. The clinic's front desk can confirm.