Orthodontics is typically reimbursed for under-16s
People aged 16 and over may exceptionally be approved for reimbursement
Orthodontics is a specialism addressing badly positioned teeth and jaws; it concerns procedures such as the realignment of teeth and the correction of bite patterns. It is estimated that around half of the developed world’s population suffers from abnormal teeth alignment.
In France, orthodontic treatment is typically reimbursed by Assurance Maladie for children and teenagers under 16.
Orthodontic treatments costing below €120 are typically reimbursed at a rate of 60%.
Procedures costing over €120 are fully reimbursed at a rate of 100%, on condition that the orthodontist applies the government tariffs, which are significantly lower than their actual market-cost, or if they charge more than this, that they do so with ‘moderation’ within set limits.
If the dentist agrees to this, then the procedure will be free to the young person and their family. See this webpage for more information about the rates.
Note that the rates given assume that care will be needed for no more than six periods of six months and there are also separate rates for the ‘treatment’ and for the braces (contention).
To benefit from these reimbursement schemes, your child must obtain prior approval from Assurance Maladie.
Teenagers nearing 16 must obtain this approval at least six months before their birthday.
People aged 16 and over may exceptionally be approved for reimbursement if orthodontics are required as a prerequisite to surgery on the jawbone. This exceptional approval is not renewable.