Where you live is one of the variable elements in brake cost estimates. Orthodontists in major cities typically charge more than rural professionals in more remote locations. We’ll break down the monthly charges in a moment. However, on average, you can expect to pay a total of:
- Traditional metal braces cost between $3,000 and $7,000.
- Clear or ceramic braces cost between $4,000 and $8,000.
- Suspenders in various colors whose price ranges from $3,000 to $7,000.
- $4,000 to $7,400 for Invisalign and Invisalign Teen
A treatment plan will be created for you after your initial session. This includes the total amount of time it will take to straighten your teeth. The total number of appointments and adjustments you will have will depend on the time period. It will also have an impact on your monthly therapy expense. Medical Insurance may cover all or part of your total expense, also affecting the amount of your monthly payment.
Many payment options start at $75 to $100 per month as a starting point. More serious alignment issues will cost more in the long run, potentially running to $300 or more each month. Do not be alarmed. We will review various options for paying and defraying the cost of braces.
Different methods to pay for your braces
Dr. Koch and his entire team are serious about helping you achieve your ideal smile. Our staff will contact your insurance company on your behalf to determine how much of your orthodontic expenses will be covered by your plan. Although dealing with insurance providers is never an exact science, we do our best to acquire the benefits to which you are entitled.
Our office accepts Visa, Mastercard and Discover in addition to insurance. We offer a 5% discount if you pay in full at the time of treatment. Care Credit offers personal payment plans to borrowers who meet certain criteria. Affordable interest-free payment options are also available. At the time of your evaluation, the Koch Orthodontics team will discuss these and other options with you. Bring any questions you have (along with your insurance card) to your initial appointment.
If you or your child has Medicaid, braces may be covered. However, the braces must be “medically essential.” That suggests your alignment issues are interfering with your ability to eat or drink, negatively impacting your overall health. More information is available on the Medicaid Web Page.
If you have a flexible spending account (HSA, FSA, HRA, or MSA) for medical expenses, you may be able to use some of the funds to help pay for braces. There are a variety of spending plans available, as well as a variety of regulations to follow. If you think this might be an option for you, check with your savings manager.
Cost of metal braces vs. Other types of brakes
Traditional metal braces are the least expensive type of braces. As we mentioned earlier, metal braces typically cost between $3,000 and $7,000. Other options include:
Ceramic braces ($4,000 to $8,000), which are tooth-colored. They are less noticeable than traditional braces, but they are not as durable. Ceramic braces can work faster than the other common and subtle invisible aligners.
Invisalign treatment ($4,000 to $7,000) involves a series of clear plastic aligners that gradually move your teeth closer and closer to the desired position. The aligners are really transparent, so they are difficult to detect in everyday situations. They are removed for eating and drinking, so they may not be a great choice for younger children who aren’t responsible enough to care for them. Treatment time is typically between one and three years.
Lingual braces ($8,000 to $10,000) are placed behind the teeth. They have many of the same benefits as traditional metal braces, but are more difficult to clean and require more adjustments.
Average cost of braces per month
#1. Traditional metal braces
When you think of orthodontic treatment, you usually think of braces like these. Wires and brackets are to gradually modify the position of your teeth. This treatment regimen can take anywhere from a few months to a few years to complete.
If you have moderate to severe alignment issues, this is usually the most cost effective alternative. However, because these braces are the more apparent option, many adults and teens are looking for less conspicuous alternatives.
Traditional braces can cost between $2,500 and $7,500 total, with an average monthly cost of $200 to $250. Payment plans, on the other hand, can be to offset the expense. If you can pay the full cost up front, your clinic may offer you a discount.
#2. invisible braces
Invisalign is a brand name clear aligner. This is an option that you may prefer if you are an adult. There are no wires or brackets, so they work differently than standard brackets. Instead, these are completely transparent, removable and much more discreet.
They are more expensive than traditional braces, ranging from $3,500 to $8,500 with an average monthly cost of $330 to $500.
If you’re on a tight budget, your orthodontist may suggest a different brand that’s less expensive.
At-home clear aligners are a less expensive option than in-office, invisible braces. These start at $79 per month and are intended to cure mild to moderate malocclusion.
#3. Other braces
Invisalign and metal braces tend to be the most common orthodontic treatments. However, there are other options.
#4. lingual appliances
Lingual appliance wires are placed behind the teeth. They are the most discreet alternative, but they are also the most expensive, costing up to $13,000. Lingual braces will also need more frequent adjustments. Lingual braces cost on average between $450 and $650 per month.
#5. ceramic braces
They look like metal braces, but they are made to match your teeth. They tend to be a bit more expensive than metal ones, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. Clear ceramic brackets are also available. Ceramic braces will cost between $270 and $350 each month.
#6. homemade clear aligners
Remote clear aligners have the lowest average cost of all orthodontic treatment. The average cost for braces treatment per month with clear aligners varies widely, but can range from $80 to $300 per month.
