Are you wondering how much does it cost to get braces? If yes, you should check out our guide here on the prices you can expect.
Many people aren’t happy with their teeth; they can be crooked due to genetics or environmental factors.
You may have crooked teeth due to either factor, and you want to do something about it. Of course, one of the main options available is braces, which people both young and old get. So you think it can be the right choice for you.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Braces? The Average Prices
But how much does it cost to get braces exactly?
Well, there’s no single answer here. Keep reading to find out what affects the price of braces.
Type of Braces
First off, the type of braces you choose will affect the cost. Many people go with traditional metal braces, which you’re probably already familiar with.
Other choices include ceramic braces, lingual braces, and Invisalign. Read on to find out more about each.
Metal Bracket
Metal bracket braces are the cheapest option. This is because they’re pretty simple and very straightforward for treatment.
All it consists of are metal brackets, wire, and rubber bands. In some cases, you might have to get and wear headgear as well, but for most people, just metal bracket braces alone will suffice.
Typically, you can expect to pay anywhere between $3,000 to $7,500. Of course, this price will be higher if you need headgear too.
Ceramic
Ceramic braces are very similar to metal bracket ones. However, they’re not as conspicuous since the brackets are made of ceramic. This means they’re the same color as your teeth, which can make it not as evident that you have braces.
Also, the wires are clear, which means these braces are even less noticeable.
Since ceramic braces are a bit more advanced than metal bracket ones, this means they cost more. Expect to pay anywhere between $3,500 to $8,000.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are like metal bracket braces, but instead of being in front of your teeth, the brackets are in the back of them. This is also an excellent choice if you want something more discreet.
However, these are hard to take care of and are not for people with severely crooked teeth. They’re also quite pricey, costing anywhere between $5,000 to $13,000.
Invisalign
Invisalign is the creme de la creme when it comes to braces. Instead of using brackets, you use clear aligner trays.
This makes it very discreet and convenient since you can take these out whenever you wish. With metal and ceramic bracket braces, you need to wear them 24/7, as they’re glued onto your teeth.
Invisalign is also highly personalized for each patient since these aligner trays need to fit your teeth like a glove. It should come as no surprise then that this is the more costly.
Invisalign will cost between $3,500 and $8,500. Considering this is much cheaper than lingual braces and comparable to ceramic ones, it may be the wisest choice, financially.
If you’re interested in Invisalign, then read more about the comparison between it and traditional braces.
Length of Treatment
How long you need braces will affect your dental braces cost. Generally, you’ll pay more the more extended your treatment is.
For this reason, braces for children will usually cost less than they do for adults. This is because adults have teeth that are already set in place and are much harder to move. So the treatment length is usually for a more extended period.
Where You Live
Where you live will play a role in how much you pay for braces too.
This is because the cost of living is different for various places. For instance, a dentist in Los Angeles, CA, will cost much more than a dentist in Omaha, NE. Anything in LA will cost more than it will in Omaha, probably.
The Dentist You Choose
Every dentist will have their prices for services. In general, the more reputable dentists will have higher rates. This is because you’re paying for their skill and experience.
However, do keep in mind that just because a dentist has high prices doesn’t necessarily mean they’re good at their job. Always make sure to check reviews before you choose a dental professional.
Your Insurance
Lastly, your dental insurance plan (if you have one) will have a direct impact on your braces cost. With a good plan, you’ll get most of the costs covered, if not all.
On the other hand, if you don’t have dental insurance at all, then all of the costs will have to come out of pocket. As a result, this can be a tremendous hit on your wallet.
How to Get Costs Reduced
If you want braces but can’t afford it, do know that there are ways to get your costs reduced.
For one, you can directly ask your dentist for a discount. They may be willing to give you a reduced rate if several of your family members are their patients. They might also have a no-interest financing plan available.
You can also offer to pay cash for the entire treatment upfront. Many dentists will be happy to give you a discount if you do so.
Lastly, you can try a local dental school. While you won’t get an experienced dentist, you’ll be helping those who need experience in the field. Plus, you’ll enjoy lower prices.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Braces? It’ll Depend
As you can see, there’s not just one answer to the question: how much does it cost to get braces? The type, length of treatment, and your insurance plan all play essential roles in determining how much braces will cost for you.
So the best course of action is to make an appointment with your dentist. Together, you can figure out the optimal treatment plan based on your needs and budget.
If you found this blog post on cost for braces useful, then browse our other dental articles for more helpful tips.