Getting That Priceless Smile: How Much Do Braces Cost?

 Keep reading below to learn more about how much braces cost.

Do you have crooked teeth? Are you suffering from overbites? Do the teeth of your child need an alignment?

One of the most popular solutions to these kinds of dental problems is wearing braces. Over 4 million Americans wear braces. Patients from ages 9 to 14 still make up the majority of the market.

But the number of adults wearing braces is on the rise.

Regardless if the braces are for you or your child, you still need to deal with one important matter: The price.

So how much do teeth braces cost? How do you bring down the cost, if possible? Continue reading below to find out.

How Much Do Braces Cost? The Key Factors

1. The Type

The biggest factor that determines the price of braces is the type of braces that you need. Traditional metal braces will cost you an average of $4,937. You can lower it down if you have insurance.

Despite the newer types of braces available today, metal braces remain to be the favorites. They are relatively affordable. They are also durable.

The downside of metal braces involves the cleaning process. If you fail to brush your teeth properly, discoloration may appear once the dentist removes the brackets.

Then there are the ceramic braces. Unlike metal braces, ceramic braces blend in your teeth way better. The downside is that they are breakable.

Ceramic braces will cost you about $4,572.

Meanwhile, lingual braces will cost you a lot more. These braces are custom made to fit right behind your teeth. Orthodontists use either ceramic or stainless steel to make lingual braces.

Prices start from $5,000 and can go up to as high as $13,000.

Lastly, there are the Invisalign braces. These braces are gaining more users in recent years. Aside from being the most affordable, it offers a look that is practically invisible.

They are also easy to clean and offer other advantages . Invisalign braces cost around $80 to $300.

2. Your Teeth’s Condition

The current condition of your teeth also affects the prices of the braces. Before the dentist proceeds with the installation of your braces, he needs to prepare you accordingly.

Part of the preparations may require extensive cleaning. Sometimes, the dentist needs to fill up some holes in your teeth first. Sometimes, you may even need to go through a tooth extraction.

In more complex cases, some patients require a special headgear before the dentist can install the brackets. These procedures add up to the overall cost.

3. The Dentist

Though dentists may offer the same types of services, their prices are not always the same. Some dental offices charge higher than others. Dentists who have decades of experience can command higher prices.

Thankfully, there are dentists who accept health insurance. The key is to look around your area first, before deciding to sit on the dental chair. The more options you have, the more savings you will enjoy.

Make sure to go for a dentist that has a solid background. Check the reviews they receive from their previous patients.

4. The Length

Lastly, the length of the procedure also affects the price of braces. Procedures that require longer preparation time have the potential to become more expensive.

Some braces require more dental visits. The more visits to the dentist, the more money you will have to shell out.

Paying for the Braces

1. Insurance

First, you can get dental insurance. There is some health insurance that also includes dental services.

Surprisingly, around 74 million Americans don't have dental coverage . That is around double the number of Americans who do not have health insurance. Dental insurance can cut your expenses for up to 50%.

With dental coverage in place, ceramic braces that cost $4,500 can go down to only $2,500. Take note that the majority of health insurance providers only cover braces up until the age of 18.

2. Payment Plans

You can also save a lot through payment plans. Most dental practices in the country offer different payment plans. Consult with your orthodontist to find out the plans that best suit your case.

3. Dental School

Today, some patients go to dental schools for treatment. Some universities offer services at cheap prices.

Dental apprentices conduct the procedures as part of their training. Do not worry since the students work under the supervision of their teachers who are also professional orthodontists.

4. Foresight

You also need to have foresight if you wish to cut down the cost of braces. You need to plan ahead by giving your child an early check-up. Dentists already have an idea if a child needs to wear braces when they grow older.

By bringing your child to the dentist while they are young, you will be able to prepare financially for future treatments.

5. Look Around

Much like in home-hunting, you also need to look around for dentists that offer the best deals. Visit around three or four dental offices in your area. Compare their respective services and rates.

6. Pay in Cash

If you have the means to pay in cash, do so. Most dental offices offer discounts to their patients who pay the total fee upfront.

If you do not have enough funds as of the moment, you can save up for a few more months before visiting your dentist for the treatment.

7. FSAs and HSAs

You can also use your health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA). These two allow using pretax dollars for healthcare expenses, including orthodontics.

Make sure to check with your company first regarding the deadlines. You also need to know the exact enrollment periods.

Let’s Straighten Your Teeth, Today!

You or your child doesn’t have to suffer from crooked teeth. There are affordable means and financing options to get braces. Contact us today to request an appointment.

We can discuss the appropriate treatments that you need and how much our braces cost. Let’s take the first step in attaining that priceless smile on your face!