Treatment FAQ

what is the average cost of orthodontic treatment

by Dr. Julia Beatty Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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While the average cost for braces is $5,000 to $6,000, some individuals pay as little as $3,000 or as much as $10,000. This is because orthodontic treatment is highly personalized based on both the orthodontist and the patient. Your expenses will depend on your age, insurance plan and the type of braces you wear.Jan 12, 2022

Which orthodontic treatment is best for You?

In general though, the total cost of orthodontic treatment from start to finish will cost between $5,000 and $7,000. If ceramic or “clear” braces are used instead of the traditional metal braces, this can add anywhere from $100 to $500 to the total fee.

When is the best time to get orthodontic treatment?

Jan 18, 2021 · How treatment works: Ceramic braces follow the same exact treatment process as metal braces. See above section for details. Pricing: $5,000-$8,000. Ceramic braces are consistently $1,000-$2,000 more than traditional metal braces. Lingual Braces: If you are completely opposed to visible braces, you may be able to have lingual braces installed.

How much does an orthodontist cost?

Aug 31, 2020 · Let’s break it down by the different treatment types below. Traditional metal braces [$3,000-7,000] Traditional metal braces are the most widely used orthodontic appliance. They’re made using a mix of high-grade stainless steel, nickel, and other metals, which makes them very durable and long-lasting.

What is the average cost of orthopedic doctor visit?

Apr 08, 2022 · Average treatments cost $5,000 to $6,000, including the placement of the braces, any adjustments and removal at the end of treatment. Standard metal braces use brackets and archwires to gradually...

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Is $6000 a lot for braces?

He estimates people should expect to pay a minimum of $5,000 for braces. According to the American Dental Association's 2020 Survey of Dental Fees, the average cost for adult braces is around $6,000.

How much does it cost to put braces on your teeth?

Average cost of braces with insuranceType of bracesBefore insuranceAfter insuranceMetal braces$3,000 to $7,500$1,500 to $3,750Ceramic braces$2,000 to $8,500$1,000 to $4,750Invisalign braces$3,000 to $7,000$1,500 to $3,500Lingual braces$5,000 to $13,000$3,500 to $9,250Apr 1, 2021

What is the cheapest cost of braces?

The average cost of braces in the United StatesTypeEstimated Base CostMetal$3,000-$6,000Ceramic$4,000-$8,000Lingual$8,000-$10,000Invisalign$3,000-$8,000Jan 12, 2022

Can you pay for braces monthly?

The payment plan is structured with an initial fee payment (due on the day the braces get placed on your teeth) and then the balance is paid off in monthly installments. The number of monthly installments will vary depending on the approximate length of your treatment.

What is clear braces?

Sometimes known as ceramic braces, these are a variation on conventional braces that provide a much less noticeable method of treatment. Clear braces utilize the same components as traditional braces, but instead of metal, the brackets are made of a translucent ceramic material that blends in with the natural color of your teeth. This offers patients an incredibly discreet treatment option, particularly when paired with clear, white, or tooth-colored wires and elastic ties.

What are braces made of?

Traditional metal braces are the most widely used orthodontic appliance. They’re made using a mix of high-grade stainless steel, nickel, and other metals, which makes them very durable and long-lasting. They also have a long track record of being an effective and economical option for straightening the teeth, particularly in cases that are more severe or complex. Today’s braces are smaller, lighter, and more comfortable than ever before. You can even customize them by choosing fun color combinations for your elastics!

How does Invisalign work?

Instead of metal brackets and wires, the Invisalign system uses a series of clear aligners to gradually move the teeth into the desired positions. These custom-made trays fit snugly over the patient’s teeth and don’t tend to irritate the gums or cheeks the way braces sometimes can.

Is Invisalign the same as braces?

When treating common orthodontic issues, Invisalign is just as effective as braces, but offers a nearly invisible way to straighten smiles! The removable aligners are also a bonus for patients who want an extremely flexible treatment option.

Does orthodontics help with tooth decay?

While orthodontics can improve the cosmetic appearance of your smile, the benefits go beyond that! Oral health also plays an important role in our total body health. Crooked teeth are harder to clean effectively and can increase your chances for tooth decay, while misalignment can lead to pain and soreness in the head, jaw, and neck. Orthodontic treatment can reduce or eliminate these symptoms, leaving you with a smile that looks good and feels good, too!

Average cost by type of treatment

While traditional braces cost $5,000 to $6,000 on average, prices vary considerably by type. Since lingual braces require precise placement and extra care, these cost the most by far. At-home clear aligners are often the most affordable option because they are relatively cheap to make and don’t require orthodontic visits.

Average cost of braces after insurance

If your orthodontist deems your braces medically necessary, your dental coverage may cover some of the costs, often up to 50%. Insurance that covers braces is more common for children than adults, though. Either way, most plans only offer coverage for standard metal braces, although you can sometimes pay the difference for more expensive types.

Overall cost of Invisalign by state

The cost of Invisalign varies considerably from state to state. For example, the average cost in Mississippi is $2,500 less than in New Jersey.

Additional associated costs

In order to protect your investment, you’ll likely need to wear retainers at night after getting your braces off to keep your teeth from shifting back into their original positions. Traditional options include Hawley (removable), Essix (clear and removable) and bonded (permanent) retainers.

Paying for braces

Even if you can’t save up the money to pay upfront, it’s still possible to work the costs into your budget and get your desired results without breaking the bank. Consider the following options to make paying for braces more manageable.

Ways to save on braces

Whether your braces cost $1,000 or $13,000, it makes sense to save money when you can. Check out the following options to see where you can cut costs without compromising on quality.

Bottom line

Crooked teeth can leave you feeling less confident, and you may even have trouble speaking and eating if your teeth are far outside their ideal positions. Fortunately, you can resolve these problems by getting braces — even if you’re an adult.

What factors determine the cost of orthodontic treatment?

location of the orthodontist (country, state, cities or rural areas) The major factors in determining the cost of orthodontic treatment are the type of dental braces that will be used and the geographic region where you plan to receive treatment. Typical orthodontic treatment comprises of metal braces on both arches ...

How much do braces cost?

Cost of braces may vary depending on the type and severity of the problem and the amount of treatment needed. On average, expect to spend about $4000 to $5000 over the treatment period. The cost of orthodontic treatment depends on : 1 the severity and complexity of the orthodontic problem that requires correction 2 length of treatment 3 treatment plan and technique 4 type of braces 5 use of additional appliances 6 whether or not oral surgery is needed 7 expertise of the orthodontist 8 location of the orthodontist (country, state, cities or rural areas)

Does dental insurance cover orthodontics?

Most of the dental insurance policies do not include orthodontic insurance, while some of them provide only partial coverage of orthodontic costs. Contact your insurance provider for the specifics of what your policy covers, prior to starting treatment.

Can you afford orthodontics?

The cost of orthodontic treatment can be significant and many patients may not afford it if they are not covered by their dental insurance. Learn how to choose a dental insurance plan that will provide the best dental treatment to you and your family. Learn how to get the best coverage. from your dental insurance:

Can you get metal braces instead of Invisalign?

If you want to save money on dental braces, you should prefer metal braces instead of ceramic ones or Invisalign. Another option for low cost orthodontic braces are the dental college clinics that offer reduced rates for services provided by supervised students.

Is braces a financial investment?

Dental braces represent a big financial investment for many parents of young children who need the orthodontics. Orthodontic cost can be a major expense in your family budget; however, there are several financing alternatives to assist with the cost of orthodontic treatment.

How much does orthodontic treatment cost?

The fee for orthodontic treatment is determined by a variety of factors, including the severity of the problem to be corrected as well as how long the treatment is expected to last. Fees may be different from orthodontist to orthodontist, and from one region to another.

Do orthodontists offer payment plans?

Yes, most orthodontists offer a variety of payment plans to make orthodontic care fit your budget. Payment plans offered can vary from orthodontist to orthodontist.

Do I have to make a down payment?

A down payment may or may not be required. Speak with your orthodontist or their team members about payment plans that are offered.

Can I use my flexible spending account or health savings account funds for orthodontic treatment?

Yes, funds from flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts can be used to pay for orthodontic treatment. Talk to your orthodontist about how to make the best use of your benefits.

Does insurance cover orthodontic treatment?

Many people have dental insurance that includes orthodontic benefits, usually provided by their employer. Such insurance covers a portion or percentage of the fee for orthodontic treatment, many times there may be a specific dollar amount or lifetime cap.

How much does insurance cover?

Insurance for orthodontic treatment is intended to cover a portion of the fee, not the entire fee. Check with your employer or your insurance company to determine your specific benefits.

Do orthodontists take credit cards?

Many orthodontists accept major credit cards. Check with your orthodontist’s office about whether credit cards are accepted as payment, and if so, which ones.

What factors affect the price of braces?

There are a host of factors that can influence the price you'll pay for braces. 1. Your provider's level of experience. Treatment with traditional metal braces is usually best administered by an orthodontist, who has not only a dental degree but graduate-level training in teeth and jaw alignment.

Can you deduct braces on your taxes?

When braces are considered medically necessary, the dental health care costs related to them are tax deductible. However, the cost has to exceed a certain amount before you can begin deducting it. Learn more about deducting dental expenses.

Do adults need braces?

Adults often prefer a less obvious teeth straightening option than metal braces. According to RealSelf members, these are the average costs of other types of braces: Beyond the visible materials of the braces, there are also lab costs, any special appliances, and finally a retainer.

Who provides orthodontic treatment?

Treatment is typically provided by dentists who are orthodontic residents and, in many cases, students have had years of experience in private practice. However, patient openings at dental schools may be limited, depending on the size of the program.

How much does Invisalign cost?

Invisalign (clear aligners): $4,000 - $7,400. Just as there is no standard price, there is no standard time frame for how long someone needs to wear braces. Treatment can last from one to three years on average, with adults often needing to wear braces longer than children.

Why are braces placed behind teeth?

These braces are placed behind teeth so they aren't visible to others. As the most expensive type of braces, Fine says they aren't used as often as other types of braces or aligners.

What insurance covers braces?

Buy Dental Insurance. Some dental insurance plans cover orthodontic treatment and may pay up to a specific amount for braces. Most policies only cover patients who are 18 or younger, and plans usually contain a yearly or lifetime maximum that only covers a portion of the total cost.

What are the different types of braces?

Teeth are typically straightened using one of two methods: braces that use brackets and wire and aligners made of clear plastic. Braces can be further broken down into the following categories: metal, clear/ceramic and lingual.

Can you get a second opinion from an orthodontist?

It's smart to get quotes from several orthodontists since fees vary by private practice. Many orthodontists provide free consultations , which means there shouldn't be a cost to getting a second opinion.

Do dentists offer braces?

Some dentists offer braces as well, but there are reasons to use an orthodontist, says Dr. Ken Dillehay, president of the American Association of Orthodontists. "Orthodontists have the training, experience and treatment options to make sure you get your best smile," he says.

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