Braces Cost

• Traditional metal braces can cost $1,500 -$10,000 or more depending on the severity of the bite and positioning problems that need to be fixed, the length of time the braces will be in place and whether the braces are on one set of teeth or both (upper and lower). For example, CostHelper readers without dental insurance coverage for braces report paying $3,000 -$7,350 for traditional metal braces, at an average cost of $4,937.
• Dental insurance may pay up to a specific amount for braces (typically $1,000 -$2,000) if the patient is 18 years old or younger, but only once per patient (braces may need to be applied more than once). Dental insurance typically does not cover the cost of braces for adults age 19 and older, although some plans cover the initial office visit and X-rays. For example, CostHelper readers with insurance coverage for braces report paying $1,500 -$8,500 out of pocket for traditional metal braces, at an average out-of-pocket expense of $3,407.
• Expect to pay $2,000 -$8,500 for braces with tooth-colored ceramic or plastic brackets, or self-ligating braces, which don't use elastic bands, like Damon braces. (While these types of braces usually cost slightly more than standard metal braces, they aren't used to correct severe bite problems.) For example, CostHelper readers without dental insurance for braces report paying $1,500 -$7,800 out of pocket for ceramic or clear brackets or self-ligating braces, for an average cost of $4,572. CostHelper readers with dental insurance coverage report out-of-pocket costs of $1,550 -$5,080, or an average cost of $2,570 for these braces.
• Lingual braces, concealed behind the teeth, can cost $5,000 -$13,000 or more. Lingual braces must be custom ordered, require more skill to install and don't work well on small teeth. Most orthodontists do not install lingual braces. Animated-teeth.com provides an overview of lingual braces.
• The Invisalign company claims its tray system can cost $3,500 -$8,000 but averages $5,000 nationwide. Instead of brackets and wires, Invisalign uses computer-fabricated clear plastic aligner trays; the patient switches to a new aligner every two weeks. Invisalign does not work for severe bite problems and some patients may still need traditional braces for a few months.

• Braces are installed and supervised by an orthodontist, a dentist who specializes in moving teeth. They are typically in place for 1-3 years, and during that time the patient will visit the orthodontist about once a month for adjustments. WebMD.com provides a before-and-after photo of misaligned teeth straightened by braces (slide number 6).
• To install braces, a metal, ceramic or plastic bracket is attached to each tooth with glue or a metal band; an arch wire runs from bracket to bracket, putting pressure on the teeth to move in the desired direction; and small colored elastics hold the bracket on the arch wire (although self-ligating braces don't need elastics). Medicinenet.com provides an overview of braces.

• Most orthodontists' prices for braces cover everything that's needed, including monthly appointments and a removable retainer once the braces are taken off. However, some orthodontists have additional charges for the initial visit ($100 -$200), dental X-rays ($10 -$250), a set of retainers ($200 -$1,000, depending on the type) and replacement removable retainers (typically $100 -$500).

• Dental school clinics may offer reduced rates for services by supervised students or faculty.
• The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research lists tips for finding low-cost dental care.

• Many orthodontists offer interest-free payment plans, with a down payment of 10%-33% of the total cost plus monthly payments spread out over the period of time the braces will be in place (usually 18-24 months).
• ArchWired.com lists questions to ask a prospective orthodontist.
• Search for local members of the American Association of Orthodontists.

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