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What's the Average Cost of Invisalign Treatment for a 16-Year-Old?

Dr Shyam

Dr Shyam Jamalabad  |94 Answers  |Ask -

Dentist - Answered on Jun 11, 2024

Dr Shyam Jamalabad holds a bachelor’s degree in dental surgery from Government Dental College and Hospital, St George Hospital, Mumbai. He has been practising independently at his clinic in Mumbai since 1983.His patients range from celebrities to slum dwellers.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Jun 11, 2024Hindi
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Health

Hi.. My daughter (aged 16) has been recommended invisalign treatment to correct her teeth alignment. What is the average cost of this treatment ?

Ans: Hello
The cost of treatment ranges from ?150000 to ?350000. The exact estimate can be given by a trained dental professional after a careful clinical evaluation. Please note that "Invisalign" is a brand. There are other brands of aligners and the cost of treatment may vary across brands
DISCLAIMER: The answer provided by rediffGURUS is for informational and general awareness purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8326 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 02, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 20, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi , my daughter wands to be a surgeon gynaecologist .currently I can commit only 30k a month towards mf and she’s 14. I have already started since 2 years but what should be my minimum monthly commitment for her to reach her goal ?
Ans: let's dive into this with a structured plan. I'll cover everything you need to know to ensure your daughter achieves her goal of becoming a surgeon gynaecologist, even with a Rs 30,000 monthly investment. Here's a thorough guide to help you understand how to maximize your investments and plan effectively.

Understanding the Goal
First, it's wonderful to hear about your daughter's ambition. Becoming a surgeon gynaecologist is a noble and highly rewarding career. It requires extensive education and training. Given she's 14, you have about four years until she enters college, and then several years of medical education after that. Let's outline the financial planning needed to support this journey.

The Cost of Medical Education
Medical education in India can be quite expensive. The costs can range significantly depending on whether she attends a government or private college.

Undergraduate Medical Education (MBBS): The cost can range from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 1 crore for the entire course. Government colleges are cheaper, while private institutions are on the higher end.

Postgraduate Education (MD/MS): This can add another Rs 20 lakh to Rs 50 lakh, depending on the specialization and the institution.

Additional Costs: This includes entrance exam preparations, books, equipment, and living expenses.

Investment Strategy: Mutual Funds
Mutual funds are an excellent way to grow your savings. They provide diversification, professional management, and the potential for high returns. Here’s how to approach investing in mutual funds to meet your financial goals.

Types of Mutual Funds
Equity Mutual Funds: These invest in stocks and have the potential for high returns. They are suitable for long-term goals, such as your daughter's education.

Debt Mutual Funds: These invest in fixed-income securities like bonds. They are safer but offer lower returns compared to equity funds. They can be used for short-term goals or to balance your portfolio.

Hybrid Mutual Funds: These funds invest in both equities and debt, providing a balanced approach. They offer moderate returns with reduced risk.

Advantages of Mutual Funds
Diversification: Mutual funds invest in a variety of assets, reducing the risk associated with investing in a single asset.

Professional Management: Fund managers with expertise in the financial market manage mutual funds.

Compounding: Reinvesting your returns allows your money to grow exponentially over time.

Liquidity: Mutual funds are generally liquid, meaning you can easily convert them to cash if needed.

Assessing Your Current Investment
You've already been investing Rs 30,000 per month for the past two years. That’s a great start! Let’s assess how this contributes to your goal.

Power of Compounding
The key benefit of mutual funds is the power of compounding. The earlier you start, the more your money grows. Since you have started early, your investments will benefit significantly from compounding.

Regular Review and Adjustment
It's crucial to review your investment portfolio regularly. Make adjustments based on market conditions, your financial goals, and changes in your personal circumstances.

Estimating the Required Investment
To support your daughter's education, you'll need to ensure that your investments grow adequately. Here’s how you can estimate the required monthly investment:

Future Education Costs: Estimate the future cost of education considering inflation. Education costs tend to rise by about 10-12% annually.

Current Savings and Investments: Assess your current savings, including your mutual fund investments and any other savings.

Expected Returns: Estimate the returns on your mutual fund investments. Equity mutual funds typically offer returns of 12-15% per annum over the long term.

Shortfall and Monthly Investment: Calculate the shortfall between your current savings and the future education costs. Based on this, determine the additional monthly investment required.

Risk Management
Investing in mutual funds involves some risk. Here’s how to manage it effectively:

Diversify Your Investments: Don't put all your money in one type of fund. Spread it across equity, debt, and hybrid funds.

Regular Monitoring: Keep an eye on the performance of your funds. Make changes if a fund consistently underperforms.

Professional Advice: Consult a Certified Financial Planner to help you make informed decisions.

SIPs: Systematic Investment Plans
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) are a great way to invest in mutual funds. They allow you to invest a fixed amount regularly, making it easier to manage your finances.

Consistency: SIPs encourage regular investment, which is crucial for long-term wealth creation.

Rupee Cost Averaging: SIPs average out the cost of your investments by buying more units when prices are low and fewer units when prices are high.

Discipline: SIPs instill a disciplined approach to investing, helping you stay committed to your financial goals.

Active vs Passive Funds
Active funds are managed by professionals who make decisions about where to invest the fund's money. They aim to outperform the market.

Benefits of Active Funds: They have the potential for higher returns compared to index funds. Fund managers actively select stocks that they believe will perform well.

Disadvantages of Index Funds: Index funds simply mimic a market index. They do not have the potential to outperform the market and might not provide the best returns for long-term goals.

Importance of Professional Guidance
While you can manage your investments on your own, seeking advice from a Certified Financial Planner can be very beneficial.

Expertise: Certified Financial Planners have the expertise to guide you through complex financial decisions.

Tailored Advice: They can provide personalized advice based on your financial situation and goals.

Holistic Planning: They look at your overall financial picture, including insurance, retirement planning, and tax planning.

Reviewing Your Insurance
If you hold LIC, ULIP, or investment-cum-insurance policies, consider their effectiveness.

Surrender and Reinvest: If these policies are not performing well, it may be wise to surrender them and reinvest the funds in mutual funds.

Insurance and Investment Separation: It's often better to keep insurance and investment separate. Term insurance provides adequate coverage, while mutual funds offer better returns on investments.

Final Insights
Planning for your daughter's education is a significant responsibility. By starting early and investing wisely, you can ensure she has the financial support she needs to achieve her dreams.

Start Early: The earlier you start, the better. Compounding works best over the long term.

Stay Consistent: Regular investments through SIPs help in building a substantial corpus over time.

Diversify: Spread your investments across different types of mutual funds to manage risk.

Seek Professional Help: A Certified Financial Planner can provide valuable guidance and help you make informed decisions.

Review Regularly: Keep an eye on your investments and make adjustments as needed.

With careful planning and disciplined investing, you can ensure a bright future for your daughter. Remember, every small step you take today will contribute to her success tomorrow.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Pushpa

Pushpa R  |63 Answers  |Ask -

Yoga, Mindfulness Expert - Answered on May 09, 2025

Health
what pranayams are there for tennis elbow problem. Also I regularly do 4 pranayams 8 minutes each (1. Kapal Bhati 2. Kumbhakam 3. Anulom Vilom 4. Bharamri) apart from brisk walk everyday for 30 minutes. Is that Ok for me or do I need to increase,I'm 49 years of age with no medical problems.
Ans: It’s wonderful to know that you are consistent with pranayama and walking. Your routine is already very good for maintaining overall health, especially at 49. Since you have no major medical conditions and are practicing regularly, it seems you're on the right path.

Regarding Tennis Elbow:
Tennis elbow is caused by overuse of forearm muscles. While pranayama won’t directly treat the elbow, it reduces inflammation, stress, and improves circulation, which helps in healing.

There are no specific pranayamas just for tennis elbow, but the ones you are doing are quite effective in supporting your healing naturally.

Your Current Routine Review:
Kapalbhati (8 mins) – Energizing and good for metabolism.

Kumbhakam (8 mins) – Helps in breath control and mental focus.

Anulom Vilom (8 mins) – Balances your nervous system.

Bhramari (8 mins) – Deeply calming.

Brisk walk (30 mins) – Excellent for heart and joint health.

This routine is balanced and sufficient. You don’t need to increase anything unless you feel mentally or physically low. For your elbow, also consider gentle wrist and forearm stretches, and consult a physiotherapist if pain persists.

Keep up your regular practice under guidance if needed, and always listen to your body.

R. Pushpa, M.Sc (Yoga)
Online Yoga & Meditation Coach
Radiant YogaVibes
https://www.instagram.com/pushpa_radiantyogavibes/

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8326 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 09, 2025
Money
Sir, what are the alternative investments, ( without buying or constructing a house) for a minimum period of 3 to 5 years?. Sir i am 71 years old, with heart and arthritis ailments. So I cannot put in any more physical efforts to buy/construct any house. Pl.guide me. Sir,if you consider and reply in a shortwhile will beof much helpful. Thank you.
Ans: At 71 years of age, with health concerns, it's crucial to focus on investments that are safe, require minimal physical effort, and align with your 3 to 5-year investment horizon. Below, I have outlined various investment options tailored to your needs, ensuring a comprehensive 360-degree perspective.

1. Government-Backed Schemes
Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS)

This scheme is designed only for senior citizens above 60 years.

It offers assured interest with quarterly payouts.

The investment duration is 5 years. It can be extended by 3 years.

The maximum amount you can invest is Rs. 30 lakhs.

It gives tax deduction under Section 80C.

Premature exit is allowed but with a small penalty.

The returns are safe as this is a government-backed scheme.

This scheme is highly suited for your need of steady income.

Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS)

This is another safe option for generating regular income.

Interest is paid monthly and the rate is fixed by the government.

You can invest up to Rs. 9 lakhs in a single account.

Joint account can hold up to Rs. 15 lakhs.

Tenure is fixed at 5 years.

It offers capital protection with low risk.

You get fixed income but there is no tax benefit.

It is easy to open and operate at your nearby post office.

2. Bank Fixed Deposits (FDs) for Senior Citizens
These deposits are safe and easy to understand.

Senior citizens get extra interest than general public.

You can choose tenure between 1 year and 5 years.

Interest can be paid monthly, quarterly, or on maturity.

Most banks offer special FD schemes for senior citizens.

Your capital is insured up to Rs. 5 lakhs per bank.

Breakable FDs offer flexibility if funds are needed early.

Laddering FDs helps manage cash flow better over time.

3. Debt Mutual Funds
These funds invest in safe instruments like bonds and securities.

They are managed by expert fund managers.

You get better returns than savings accounts or FDs.

Ideal if you want moderate returns with low risk.

Can be held for 3 to 5 years for better stability.

You can withdraw partially or fully at any time.

Taxation depends on your income slab.

For short-term and long-term, gains are taxed as per slab.

Choose funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor who is a Certified Financial Planner.

Avoid direct mutual funds. Regular plans through a trusted CFP give guidance.

Regular plans also help with tracking and rebalancing.

These funds suit conservative investors like yourself.

4. Hybrid Mutual Funds
These invest in a mix of equity and debt instruments.

They balance safety and growth better than pure equity funds.

Suitable for moderate risk appetite and medium-term goals.

They offer higher potential returns than debt mutual funds.

You can use Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) for monthly income.

You withdraw a fixed amount every month as income.

Remaining investment continues to grow.

Better than bank interest in most years.

These are managed by experienced fund managers.

You get professional management and risk balancing.

They suit your 3 to 5-year investment horizon well.

5. Tax-Free Bonds
These are issued by government-backed companies.

Interest earned is fully exempt from income tax.

They offer fixed income for long periods.

Tenure is usually 10 to 20 years.

But they can be sold in the secondary market anytime.

There is no TDS on the interest received.

Capital remains protected if held till maturity.

Useful for generating tax-free income.

Liquidity may be limited, so invest part only.

Ideal for people in higher tax slabs.

6. Public Provident Fund (PPF)
PPF is a long-term savings option with tax benefits.

Though the tenure is 15 years, you can withdraw after 5 years.

Partial withdrawals are allowed from sixth year onwards.

Interest earned is tax-free.

Investment up to Rs. 1.5 lakhs per year is allowed.

Investment also gives tax deduction under Section 80C.

Since you are already 71, limit the amount you put here.

Use PPF only if you have surplus funds with long-term view.

7. Health Insurance
Health expenses can disturb your retirement savings.

A proper health policy gives peace of mind.

Make sure your plan covers pre-existing diseases.

Select a plan with low waiting periods.

Top-up plans can help increase your coverage.

Premium paid gives tax benefit under Section 80D.

Renew your health plan before expiry every year.

Do not delay or skip health insurance.

Health is your most important financial asset now.

8. Emergency Fund
Keep a separate fund for emergencies.

It should cover at least 6 months of expenses.

Keep this in savings or liquid mutual fund.

Avoid using this fund for investments.

This fund helps during medical or family needs.

Having this buffer keeps you financially stress-free.

9. Avoid Complex or Risky Investments
Avoid real estate, especially construction or buying property.

At this age, physical and legal efforts must be avoided.

Do not go for products that lock your funds.

Avoid insurance-linked investment plans like ULIPs.

These give poor returns and are not flexible.

Do not invest in shares directly.

Direct equity needs monitoring and risk taking.

Do not use index funds.

Index funds blindly copy the market.

They don’t protect capital in falling markets.

Actively managed funds are better.

Fund managers can exit bad stocks and reduce loss.

Index funds lack human decision-making.

In volatile times, this can be harmful.

10. Taxation Awareness
Interest from SCSS and FDs is taxable as per your slab.

Debt mutual fund gains are taxed as per slab.

Equity fund gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term equity gains are taxed at 20%.

Keep these in mind while planning redemptions.

Withdraw funds in parts to manage tax better.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner for personalised tax advice.

11. Role of Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
A CFP is qualified and regulated to give financial advice.

They help in goal planning and risk management.

They review your current holdings and guide on changes.

CFPs don’t push products. They suggest based on your goals.

You can invest through them using regular mutual funds.

They handle paperwork, tracking, and rebalancing.

Their fee is included in mutual fund expenses.

They act as a long-term guide in your financial journey.

Especially helpful at your age when decisions must be safe.

Select only CFPs who are registered and experienced.

12. Avoid Annuities
Annuities give very low returns.

They lock your money and lack flexibility.

Payouts are taxable in your hands.

You lose control over your capital.

Not suitable at your life stage.

Safer alternatives with better liquidity are available.

SCSS or Hybrid Funds are more beneficial.

13. Review of Existing Policies
If you hold old LIC or ULIP plans, please review them.

These plans often give low returns.

Check surrender value and consider exiting.

Reinvest the amount into better options.

Use mutual funds for flexibility and higher growth.

Take help of a Certified Financial Planner for this.

Finally
Your investment needs are clear.

You want safety, income, and peace of mind.

You do not want physical involvement or stress.

You want your money to work silently and reliably.

That is exactly what the above options offer.

They protect your capital and generate steady returns.

They are flexible and easily accessible.

They need no physical effort or frequent monitoring.

At your stage, financial peace matters most.

Not chasing high returns, but getting consistent income.

You have taken the right step by seeking advice.

Now, implement these options gradually.

Start with a basic allocation. Review it every year.

Focus on health, simplicity, and financial security.

Let your money bring comfort, not worry.

Wishing you a financially safe and relaxed retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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