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The average cost of metal braces ranges between $3500 and $7000. This type of orthodontic treatment is considered to be highly personalized and is based upon the orthodontist’s specific recommendations and the patient’s desires. Expenses can vary substantially from the type of insurance plan that is carried as well as the patient’s age and the kind of braces that are selected. Traditional metal braces tend to cost anywhere in the range of $3,500 to $7,000. Dental insurance coverage for traditional metal braces on a child is typical $1,000 to $2,000.
It’s important to note that the cost of braces can vary depending on a number of factors, including the location of the orthodontist, the severity malocclusion, the type of braces being used, and any additional treatments or procedures that may be needed. Orthodontic practices offer payment plans and financing options to make treatment more affordable.
Orthodontic treatment have a positive impact on a person’s oral health, self-esteem, and overall well-being.
Does insurance cover the cost of braces?
Out-of-pocket costs will likely be higher if you and your child go forward with non-metal braces. The general rule is this: Insurance plans that cover orthodontic treatment do so partially. Often the plan will give you 50% coverage for the work your child needs, and cap it at $1,500. Your out-of-pocket expenses may include co-pays and deductibles. Most insurance plans set maximum amounts they’ll pay out in one year, as with any dental work.
What Factors Determine the Braces Cost?
Perhaps the most determining factor when it comes to the total cost associated with:
. Type of Braces
Metal braces are still the most popular option, some people prefer to minimize the look of their braces and avoid the obvious metal brackets and wires. Compared to the average cost of metal braces (between $5,000 and $6,000), braces that use tooth-colored ceramic brackets, called ceramic braces, can cost as much as $8,000. Ceramic braces may be more aesthetically pleasing, but they can also break or crack and may stain if you drink dark-colored liquids.
Invisible braces, commonly known as Invisalign, use a series of clear trays that fit around your teeth. Though they are removable, they must be worn for at least 22 hours a day to achieve ideal results. While the cost of Invisalign used to be more expensive than metal braces, the increased familiarity that many orthodontists now have with this type of straightener means that they can be comparable in cost to the traditional option. Invisalign costs in the Houston area typically range between $3,500 and $8,000.
- The Length of The Treatment
The length of treatment can also play an important role in overall cost. Adults may pay more for braces than children do, usually because adult teeth require more time and additional appointments to see results. The actual average cost of 1 year of braces for an adult is $2,546 compared to $2,457 for a child under 18 (based on national statistics). But an adult is more likely to need braces for longer than the average of 24 months. Adults are also more likely to have previous dental issues that could impact the placement and timing of braces. Case difficulty can have a direct impact on the total cost.
Are there other kinds of braces we could consider?
Alternatives to traditional metal braces include:
- Ceramic braces
with brackets designed to blend in with the teeth. They can be clear, or designed with a shade to match the teeth. They do need a careful and steady cleaning routine to prevent stains. Ceramic braces usually move teeth faster than other invisible options like clear aligners (discussed below). The minimum cost for this alternative is around $4,000. So they’re somewhat costlier than traditional metal.
- Damon braces
Damon braces are typically more expensive, at least at the start. They do away with the steel ties. Only brackets fixed onto the wires keep them in place. These don’t need tightening. So they will require fewer trips to the orthodontist for adjustments. They aren’t removable so that they won’t get lost. The length of treatment will be different for everyone, but clinical studies cited by Damon indicate that the Damon System works up to six months faster than traditional metal braces. Damon Clear offers a blended-in look. Headgear is almost never necessary. These braces will cost around $8,000.
- Lingual braces
Lingual braces are tucked behind the teeth. They can be harder to clean. And kids can feel them against the tongue. They’ll likely cost $8,000 to $10,000.
- Invisible aligners
Invisalign is an option for some clients. Aligners look like mouthguards. But they shift teeth like traditional braces. In addition to their nearly invisible look, they’re chosen for comfort, and because they can be removed. But they do not need to be taken out for eating or drinking. They allow normal brushing of the teeth and flossing too. Costs range from $4,000 to $6,000.On the high end is the well-known Invisalign® system. Up to $3,500 of the treatment with invisible aligners can be recovered through insurance. With Invisalign®, the client gets several aligners. The teeth move as the aligners are changed in sequence. Different people will need different numbers of aligners. This impacts the cost of the whole treatment.
Why Do Prices Differ From One Dentist To Another?
This is a question that is frequently asked when it comes to various Invisalign treatment plans. The first thing to consider when talking about Invisalign and cost is that each patient will have individual dental care needs that will directly affect the price. From very complicated and lengthy treatments to simpler and shorter treatments, prices can vary substantially. Talk with your dental care provided to determine the level of treatment required and your individual expected cost. The difficulty level of the treatment involved will have a direct impact on the cost of treatment.
. What Is Best For One Patient May Not Be Best For Another
Patients should understand that what is best for one patient may not be best for another. Each case is unique and different, and as such, each requires careful consultation with your dental care provider to make the best possible dental health decision.
Invisalign has quickly grown in popularity in recent years because of its far-reaching possibilities. Invisalign allows the patient to eat any type of food desired while still straightening teeth in an effective and very reliable way. Invisalign like braces produce excellent results when it comes to correcting teeth that are improperly spaced, crowded, or that exhibit a cross-bite, overbite, or under-bite. Invisalign is innovative in that it is a virtually invisible type of teeth straightening technology. Teeth can be brushed and flossed normally while still achieving the desired results of having straight and attractive looking teeth. Further, Invisalign is more comfortable because there are no sharp metal protrusions that can irritate the gums or cheeks.
. Should I Wait To Have My Teenager’s Teeth Straightened?
This is an equally important question that many patients and parents often ask. Since each dental patient is unique from a dental health viewpoint, it is important to consider the patient and his or her specific case before making a judgment in this regard. However, many experts recommend having teeth straightened at an earlier age. This is because younger developing teeth are easier and more responsive to work with over the short and long term. Straightening teeth in adults is sometimes more difficult and may even involve surgical procedures. Another issue that often arises is whether or not to have wisdom teeth pulled before having dental braces or Invisalign treatment. This is yet another situation were talking with your dental care provider is the best place to begin in making this determination.
Extra Appointments
Any time a patient pays more than the average cost of braces, it is likely because brackets have been broken or alignment has been particularly slow to progress. Patients can keep the cost of braces down by avoiding foods that stick to braces or that shatters brackets. These types of activities can result in additional appointments that can increase the cost of braces. Keeping teeth clean while wearing braces will also help to minimize any unnecessary additional cost.
When you consider the cost of getting braces, it’s important to find what you’ll need to pay for other medical and dental treatments required due to these side effects of having misaligned teeth. With the proper orthodontic treatment, you won’t have to deal with or pay the high costs for these issues in your future.
Even geographical location can have an impact on the cost of braces. For example, someone living in New York City could pay as much as 20% more for braces than someone living in a rural area of another state. As a final note, dental insurance will often help patients pay for braces. That said, it is important to consult with your insurance carrier to know for sure what options you have in this regard. Call us today to learn more about the cost of metal braces in 2024. We offer different payment plans, in-house financing, family discount plan, and monthly specials.