According to a study from the Republic of Macedonia, around 25% of adults worldwide seek medical appointments from orthodontists to provide jaw treatment and improve teeth appearance.
For those who want to get braces on, it is common to ask, how much do braces cost?
In this article, we will identify the factors that may alter the price of dental braces treatment.
The Cost of Braces Depends on Teeth Condition
Generally, the cost of braces depends on the condition of your teeth.
The more complex your teeth are, the longer the treatment. Thus, the higher the price you have to pay.
Many patients, before getting their braces on, have to undergo many other procedures such as root canals, extractions, and fillings.
A dentist makes sure that the patient’s teeth are ready before installing these corrective devices.
The costs of these procedures are expensive as well.
Also, a patient cannot get these procedures in a single dentist visit. Thus, paying the dentist fee for every appointment would increase the cost of your treatment.
However, not all dentists require this appointment fee. Based on personal experience, some dentists make the fee consumable.
After all the minor procedures, braces will be installed and their cost depends on the severity of the misaligned teeth.
For minor ones, the average cost of braces would be around $1000-$3000.
For severely misaligned teeth, the average cost would be around $3,000-$5,000.
Take note that these costs can be increased depending on other conditions of the teeth and mouth.
Patients who seek orthodontists may be experiencing jaw conditions such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
According to some reports, the cost of braces for those with TMJ is around $7,000.
Again, this cost may change depending on the severity of the jaw condition. If the TMJ can be treated in no time, the price would be cheaper.
The Materials Used Affect the Price of the Braces
The typical cost of orthodontic supplies is around 150-$250 per case.
This price can increase depending on the quality of the materials.
Of course, the higher the quality means more expensive.
When you get your braces, your dentist will base the amount you need to pay depending on the quality of materials he or she is using during your treatments.
Furthermore, the standard quality materials cost around $50-$150 per case while the high-quality materials cost around $350-$850 per case.
In case dentists buy in bulk, the cost of braces can be reduced.
Dentists aim to provide high-quality services to their patients.
So, even when they offer lower or cheaper treatments, it does not mean that they are offering low-quality materials. It is possible that they bought their materials in bulk.
However, understand that the expertise of your dentist and their staff will still determine the cost of your braces.
Of course, the more experienced the dentist is, the higher the fee to be paid.
Remember, dentists also have to compensate their staff.
Dental Braces Types
There are many braces types and these come at different prices. Sometimes, patients choose their preferred type, and sometimes, dentists choose the type of braces depending on the patient’s teeth condition.
In this section, we will discuss the different types of braces and how much it would cost in getting them.
1) Metal braces
Metal braces are the standard ones that use metal brackets.
They are the cheapest type of braces and may cost you around $2,000-$6,00. Generally, those who wear this type of braces are required to use them for years.
2) Ceramic braces
Ceramic braces use ceramic materials to align the teeth.
They are also being worn for years, but, compared to metal ones, they are less noticeable.
According to some dentists, ceramic braces take more years to work compared to metal braces.
Generally, the cost of ceramic braces falls between $3,000-$7,500.
3) Invisible aligners
Today, invisible aligners are considered the most appealing option.
They are clear aligners made of plastic that perfectly fit over your teeth.
Generally, a dentist will make this dental brace for you by following the mold of your teeth.
Unlike metal and ceramic braces, invisible aligners are easy to remove when you eat or brush. However, their cost is more expensive too, around $4,000-$8,000.
4) Damon braces
Damon braces are comparable to invisible aligners.
This type of brace uses clear, sliding brackets.
Because they can shorten the length of time required to complete your orthodontic treatment, they are much more expensive than others.
Getting Damon braces may cost you around $4,000-$8,000.
5) Lingual braces
This type of brace works like metal braces but they are attached to the back of your teeth. They are the most popular for those who want to get braces that are completely not visible.
Because of this, they are considered the most expensive ones. Many artists have these braces and they cost around $8,000-$10,000.
Country Where Braces Are Installed
The country where you get your braces also affects the cost of getting them.
Different countries have different economic statuses, thus, the cost of materials, shipping, taxes, and services may vary.
In the United States, the average cost of braces ranges from $2,000 to $10,000.
On the other hand, in the United Kingdom and European countries, the average cost of braces is around $1,500 to $5,000.
Furthermore, in Australia and Mexico, the average cost would be around $2,500 to $6,000.
According to some reports, you can get invisible aligners in Asian countries like Thailand and India for only around $2,000.
In the Philippines, standard metal braces cost around $1,200 to $1,500.
Based on personal experience, many dentists still base their fees depending on their expertise.
A dentist who just passed the boards quoted a cost of $1,200 for standard braces, while another dentist, who happened to be the dentist of some artists in the country, required a fee of $1,750 for standard braces.
Dental Braces and Insurance
Insurance is also important when we talk about braces.
Some insurance companies cover all the expenses while others only cover some procedures.
If you are lucky enough with your insurance company, treatments, and procedures such as anti-cavity fluoride rinse, restoration, and prophylaxis every monthly adjustment are also covered.
Apart from insurance, you can also consider credit cards or other payment options.
Some dentists offer in-house payments where you will be given a total amount which you will have to pay monthly or every adjustment.
In this section, we will discuss the possible cost of braces if your insurance will cover 50% of your treatment.
1) Standard metal braces
For standard metal braces, having them installed using your insurance coverage may only require you to pay around $1,500-$3,750.
2) Ceramic braces
For ceramic or tooth-colored braces, the price range would be around $1,000-$4,750. Generally, these are more expensive than standard metal braces.
3) Invisalign braces
Invisalign braces come in different brands and different brands can affect the cost of the braces.
Using insurance, the treatment would be around $1,500-$3,500.
4) Lingual braces
As the most expensive type of braces, using your insurance will cost you around $3,500-$9,500 to get these braces.
Final Thoughts
Indeed, braces are amazing devices that can improve your appearance and oral health.
Although they are kind of expensive, getting them is surely worth it, especially for those with severe jaw and teeth conditions.
Many factors affect the costs of braces. Aside from teeth condition, these factors are the materials used, type of braces, country where you get them, and if you are using insurance.
For those who want to get braces, it is highly advised to go for those that suit your condition.
A dentist will tell you which brace is most needed for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the age required to get braces?
Some children as young as 10 years old get braces or as soon as their permanent teeth are out. According to dentists, children 7 years old can already be screened.
Can I wear braces at the age of 40?
Many patients hinder them from taking braces even if they need them because of age. Understand that there is no age limit when it comes to corrective treatment.
How long does it take for misaligned teeth to get fixed?
For severe teeth conditions, it may take 3 or more years to get your teeth fixed. However, for those who need their teeth to be aligned, without any complications, it may take as soon as 6 months for them to get better.