Whether you’re in the market for braces yourself or are preparing to get braces for your child or teen, you may already be internally wincing at the expected cost. But really, how much do braces cost? Today, there are more—and more effective—options than ever before when it comes to aligning your teeth. Read on to learn more about the cost of braces and how you can pay for them.
How much do braces cost?
The overall average cost of braces is between $5,000 and $6,000, but this figure can vary widely depending on factors like the type of braces you choose, the level of alignment your teeth need, whether you’re getting top braces, bottom braces, or both, and even the cost of living in your part of the country. Adult braces tend to be slightly more expensive than children’s braces, though still within the mid-four-figure range.
What types of braces are available?
When you’re asking yourself, “how much do braces cost?” it’s important to remember that there are several types of braces available, and some are more inexpensive than others.
Generally, traditional metal braces are the cheapest, starting at $3,000 to up to $7,000 for complex cases. Clear ceramic braces are more unobtrusive than metal braces and usually start around $4,000, topping out at $8,000. Meanwhile, lingual braces will set you back anywhere from $8,000 to $10,000.
Invisalign works differently from braces in that you can remove the clear plastic trays from your teeth in order to eat, drink, or brush your teeth. Most Invisalign braces cost between $4,000 to $7,400.
How can I pay for braces?
Although most health insurance plans don’t provide coverage for orthodontic treatment for adults, some plans do have provisions for children under the age of 18. Supplemental orthodontic insurance may also be available to help defray these costs, though it’s important to look at the fine print on any insurance plan. You may also want to consider applying for a credit account through your orthodontist of choice. Many of these credit accounts offer interest-free payment options, helping you maintain cash flow throughout the course of orthodontic treatment without paying high-interest rates. Exploring these options with Roeder Orthodontics will help you answer the question “how much do braces cost?” with confidence.