There are two main worries when getting braces:
What will I look like with braces?
And
How much do braces cost?
The most known of orthodontic appliances, dental braces have been the bane of many a child’s existence through the years. But they’re not always a thrill for the parents who have to pay for them either.
That doesn’t mean the total cost has to be astronomical. There are affordable braces treatment options and payment plans out there.
With dental insurance and other payment methods, getting braces doesn’t have to break the bank. At Ries Orthodontics, we do everything we can to help you fit the cost of braces into your budget.
So What is the Cost of Braces?
The cost of braces varies, typically between $3,000 and $7,000. However, this price range isn’t an exact science.
The cost of braces largely depends on your individual health needs, the severity, and the type of orthodontic treatment. It also depends on where you live and your insurance plan.
We can’t offer an exact cost estimate for your braces until after an examination. Because each treatment plan is individualized for the patient, your actual charges will vary.
The best way to find out how much your braces will cost is to schedule an examination with Dr. Ries.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Braces
While braces are a great treatment option for correcting misaligned teeth, they’re not always inexpensive. However, there are ways to make the cost more manageable and help you get your desired results without breaking the bank.
The type of braces you choose is an important factor that can impact the overall cost. Traditional metal braces are the most common and are often the least expensive option.
Other types of braces include:
- Ceramic braces
- Lingual braces
- Clear braces or invisible braces (Invisalign Clear Aligners)
- Self-ligating braces
- Damon Braces
A patient’s preference can play a part in the choice between traditional braces or a more aesthetically pleasing option like a clear aligner.
Keep in mind that not every orthodontist offers every type of braces treatment.
The severity of the orthodontic issue you have will also play a big role in the price you pay for orthodontic care. For instance, if you have severe oral crowding that requires extensive work before getting braces, this will increase the cost of your treatment.
The Average Cost of Braces in the US
The average cost of braces in the United States also varies. As discussed previously, it depends on a number of factors, including the type of braces being used and the extent of orthodontic care needed.
Children typically have cheaper braces than adults because their teeth move faster and they’re often less likely to develop dental problems like tooth decay during treatment. However, costs can rise if your child doesn’t follow the orthodontist’s recommended care during early treatment.
Hidden Costs of Braces
Orthodontic treatment costs can also be influenced by the credentials of your orthodontist. Some specialists charge extra for licensing and training.
A good orthodontist will go over the total pricing of their services so you can better understand what you’ll be paying. This will help you budget your out-of-pocket costs.
Depending on the orthodontic clinic, you may be able to get a lower price on your treatment by choosing to use a flexible financing option. These options typically allow patients to space their payments out over time and can make your braces treatments more affordable.
Payment Options for Braces
The cost of braces in the United States can be anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000. This can put them out of reach for many people, and even if you do have dental insurance, it may not cover the full cost of your treatment.
Fortunately, there are ways to make the financial investment in orthodontic treatment more affordable. Among them are flexible payment plans that can help patients fit braces into their budget by only having to make a monthly payment.
Most health insurance plans will let you use funds from your flexible spending account to pay for dental and orthodontic treatment. This can be an option to cover costs that your dental insurance plan might not cover.
The American Dental Association provides guidance here on the different types of dental insurance coverage.
Conclusion
There are many different factors that can affect the cost of braces. Some of these include the type of braces, your age, and the severity of your orthodontic problem.
If you have insurance, your policy may cover a portion of the costs of treatment. In addition, some practices offer financing options that allow you to pay for treatment over time.
Aside from improving your smile and appearance, braces can also help improve your overall oral health. Crooked or misaligned teeth can cause gum disease and cavities.
Plus, they can make it difficult to clean and floss properly. Straighter teeth can also lead to better speech patterns. This can improve your confidence and self-esteem. Additionally, braces can address jaw misalignment that can lead to speech impairments or lisps.
Contact Ries Orthodontics today for a FREE Consultation!
