Illustration showing five key factors that affect the cost of braces, including type, treatment complexity, and location.

How Much Are Braces? 5 Tips to Cut Costs & Save Money

Braces have been around for decades and are one of the best alignment-resolving solutions. However, one thing to consider is their price, which varies from person to person. Braces are not one-size-fits-all, but their Cost and treatment depend on several factors. 

If you are considering straightening your teeth with braces and looking for an affordable braces option in Arizona, Palm Valley Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is at your disposal. Book your first consultation with us, and let’s discuss the right braces type, the Cost, and more.

Read: Clear Braces vs Metal Braces: Which is Right for You?

What are Braces?

Traditional metal braces are robust, versatile, and a tested method for correcting the alignment of teeth.

Metal braces are high-quality stainless steel and perfect for crooked, misaligned, crowded teeth. Additionally, they are designed to be durable and strong enough to bear enough pressure. 

Read: 5 Different Types of Braces Used in Orthodontics – Best Choice?

How Much Do Traditional Braces Cost Without Insurance?

According to the annual survey by the American Dental Association, the average cost of braces ranges from $3000 to $12,000, depending on several factors. 

You can expect $5,000 to $7,000 for orthodontic treatment that covers braces. However, the given table shows the prices without insurance for different types:

Types of bracesCost
Metal braces$3500-$7,000
Ceramic braces$4,000-$8,000
Lingual braces$4,000-$12,000
Invisalign$4000 – $8000

The best way to get a good price is to consult with more than two dentists and determine if the plan would work for you without insurance.

Braces Cost with Insurance

According to the annual survey done by the American Dental Association, the Cost of orthodontic treatment is almost $4000 to $6000. However, the actual price varies not only after insurance but also based on the individual medical needs.

Here is the chart that can help you better understand the prices before and after insurance:

Braces typeBefore insuranceAfter insurance
Metal braces$3500-$7,000$1500 – $3800
Ceramic braces$2,000-$8,000$1,000 – $4,000
Lingual braces$4,000-$12,000$2500 – $7500
Invisalign$3,000 – $8000$1500 – $3500

Dental insurance plans usually don’t cover braces, especially for adults. Some providers cover braces for children under 18 or partially for adults. 

Before deciding, always check your dental insurance provider for the type of braces they cover under insurance. 

What Factors Affect the Price of Braces?

Five factors that impact braces costs are type, case complexity, treatment duration, orthodontist expertise, and location.

1: Braces Type

Different types like metal, ceramic, or lingual affect the price. Metal braces are cheaper, while ceramic ones blend with teeth and cost more. Lingual braces go behind teeth and are pricier because they’re harder to install.

2: Severity of Issues

The seriousness of dental problems changes the Cost. Fixing big problems takes longer and needs more adjustments, making it more expensive.

3: Orthodontist Expertise 

Experienced orthodontists might charge more because they’re very good at their work. They give top-quality care, so their services cost more.

4: Location

Where you live affects the price, too. Big cities with higher living costs tend to have more expensive orthodontic treatment than smaller towns or rural areas.

5: Treatment time

Longer treatment times usually mean higher costs. How long you need braces depends on how bad your teeth are and your type of braces. More visits and adjustments will increase the total price.

6: Insurance

If you have dental insurance, it can help pay for braces. Some plans cover part of the Cost, lowering how much you pay out of your pocket.

By considering these factors, individuals can better understand the cost structure associated with braces and plan their orthodontic care accordingly.

5 Tips To Save Money for Braces

Braces are undoubtedly an expensive medical necessity that can’t wait as they are beneficial for teeth straightening. There are several ways to get braces but at a low price. Here are the tips that one must follow:

  • Look for dental insurance that covers braces.
  • Pay full price upfront, as some clinics may offer a discount.
  • Take advantage of dental programs for low-income families.
  • Use a flexible spending account such as FSA.
  • Get quotes from multiple dentists and choose wisely.

The Bottom Line:

Braces are the only tried and tested treatment that effectively reshapes your teeth and resolves all kinds of jaws and bite-size issues. 

Although their price tag only fits some, you can try your best to get the most budget-friendly deal at PVPD. 

FAQs

How much are braces usually?

Traditional braces cost almost $3000 to $5000, ceramic braces cost around $4000 to $8000, and Invisalign costs around $2000 to $10,000. 

What are the cheapest braces?

The cheapest braces are metal braces, which come with metal wires and brackets. They are customized according to your teeth situation and may cost you a minimum of $3000. 

Which braces Cost the most?

Invisalign is the most expensive type of braces with clear aligners, which are a perfect choice for people who are publicly shy and don’t want to get attention. They cost around $8,000 to $10,000, depending on several factors. 

Is one row of braces cheaper?

Yes, if your only jaw has misaligned teeth and you want to reshape them, the price of one braces is less than the full braces. 

Read: 10 Effective Tips for Cleaning Teeth with Braces

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