Today, orthodontic treatments are widely used by children, teenagers, and adults. It’s designed to enhance tooth alignment, correct the bite, and improve overall oral health. Despite the range of options available, braces continue to be a popular choice.
Braces are effective for addressing dental issues but can have a hefty price tag. So, how much do braces cost? Generally, they range from $3,000 to over $10,000. Costs vary greatly based on the brace type, treatment duration, and location.
Explore our blog for all the questions you have been asking about braces, such as how much are braces, whether are they expensive, their types, and benefits.
How Much Do Braces Cost?
How much does it cost to get braces can vary widely depending on a few key factors. The cost ranges from $3,000 to over $10,000. All types of braces work to straighten your teeth, but the cost can vary depending on which type you choose.
Additionally, the price can differ based on your age. For instance, in adults jaw is fully developed, making it harder for teeth to shift, which can mean longer treatment times with braces. In contrast, children’s jaws are still developing, so their teeth are easier to adjust.
As a result, adults often pay about 5% more for braces than children or teens. On average, this adds up to nearly $300, with adult braces costing around $6,100, compared to $5,800 for younger patients.
Types of Braces and Their Cost
1. Metal Braces
When you picture braces, traditional metal ones likely come to mind. These braces use stainless steel bands, brackets, and wires to gradually align your teeth over time.
An orthodontist or dentist will attach a bracket to each tooth with a special bonding adhesive, and then thread a flexible archwire through the brackets. Small elastic bands, called ligatures, hold the wire securely in place. So, how much do metal braces cost? They range between $3,000-$7,000.
2. Ceramic Braces
Also known as clear braces, they work similarly to metal braces. The primary difference is that their brackets, wires, and ligatures are tooth-colored, helping them blend with your smile. Although they’re still visible, they’re less prominent.
Ceramic braces cost: $4,000-$8,000
3. Lingual Braces
Lingual braces work just like other types, except they’re attached to the back surfaces of the teeth. Because they’re positioned inside the mouth, they’re fully hidden from view. However, it’s worth noting that braces placed behind the teeth typically come with a higher price tag.
Lingual braces cost: $5,000-$13,000
4. Clear Braces
Also known as “invisible braces,” clear braces offer an alternative to traditional braces. Rather than using brackets and wires, they rely on a series of custom-fit trays to gradually move your teeth.
Each tray set is worn for about two weeks, after which you switch to the next set. Unlike metal braces, aligners are removable, though they need to be worn for at least 22 hours daily. They should only be taken out for eating, drinking, or brushing.
Clear braces cost: $1,800-$3,000
Cost of Braces, Benefits, and Drawbacks
| Type of braces | Cost range | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal braces | $3,000-$7,000 | ▪ High durability ▪ Cost-effective | ▪ Noticeable appearance ▪ Diet restrictions |
| Ceramic braces | $4,000-$8,000 | ▪ Less noticeable ▪ Effective for complex cases | ▪ Straining potential ▪ Higher cost |
| Lingual braces | $5,000-$13,000 | ▪ Hidden from view ▪ Customized fit | ▪ Increased discomfort ▪ Higher cost and complexity |
| Clear braces | $1,800-$3,000 | ▪ Removable ▪ Virtually invisible | ▪ Strict wear time ▪ Limited for severe cases |
Factors Affecting the Cost of Braces
How much do braces cost depends on various factors, such as:
- Your geographic location
- Your age group
- The type of braces you opt for
- The duration of your treatment
- The qualifications of your orthodontist
- How you care for your braces
- The degree of movement required for your teeth
What Problems Do Braces Address?
Braces are used to fix several common dental issues, improving both the look and health of your teeth. Here’s what they can help with:
1. Crowded or Spaced Teeth: Braces can correct teeth that are too close together or have noticeable gaps. By moving teeth into proper alignment, braces create even spacing, giving each tooth more room and closing gaps.
2. Overbite: An overbite happens when the top teeth stick out too far over the bottom teeth. Braces can help move the teeth so they line up better, which also protects them from extra wear.
3. Underbite: An underbite is when the bottom teeth are too far forward, in front of the top teeth. Braces can adjust the position of the teeth to improve the way they bite together.
4. Crossbite: In a crossbite, some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of outside. Braces can correct this by aligning the teeth properly, which helps with chewing and keeps teeth from wearing unevenly.
5. Open Bite: An open bite is when the upper and lower teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed. Braces can help close this gap, making it easier to bite and chew.
How Long Do Braces Take?
While everyone’s orthodontic journey is unique, most people need to wear braces for 1 to 3 years to achieve optimal alignment. Orthodontists generally estimate treatment times between 18 months to 2 years, depending on the extent of correction required.
Several factors can influence the length of time you’ll need braces:
- The complexity of your orthodontic issues.
- The type of braces or appliances used.
- Your commitment to following treatment guidelines.
Are Braces Expensive?
Braces can be an investment, with costs depending on factors like the type of braces, treatment duration, and your specific orthodontic needs. Traditional metal braces, for example, are generally more affordable than advanced options like ceramic or lingual braces, which are less noticeable but more costly.
Despite the cost, many people find that the long-term benefits of a healthy, aligned smile outweigh the expense, as braces can improve not only appearance but also oral health by making it easier to clean and care for teeth properly.
Bonus Tip: Steer Clear of These Foods While Wearing Braces!
When you have braces, it’s best to avoid certain foods that can damage the brackets, and wires, or cause buildup around your braces.
These are the foods you should strictly avoid:
| Hard foods | Nuts, hard candies, ice cubes, and raw crunchy veggies (like carrots) |
| Sticky foods | Chewy candies like caramels, taffy, and gummy candies |
| Chewy foods | Bagels, tough bread, and certain meats (like steak) |
| Sugary foods | Soda, candy, and sugary snacks as they increase plaque buildup |
| Foods you bite into | Whole apples, corn on the cob, and hard rolls |
The Bottom Line
Braces help create a healthier, more aligned smile, making it easier to clean teeth, chew properly, and feel more confident in your appearance. So, how much do braces cost? The simple answer is it typically ranges from $3,000 to $10,000. However, this can vary widely based on the complexity of the case and the location.
For more information regarding the cost and braces treatment, visit Dos Caminos Dental.