Many patients who need braces are afraid to call the orthodontist for an appointment. Part of this may be uncertainty about orthodontic procedures of having dental work done in general. Potential patients may also hesitate because of financial concerns. Before committing to any service, most patients want to know "How much do braces cost?"
Unlike a car, there is no clear-cut number that answers, "How much do braces cost?" for every patient. Orthodontic treatment is unique to each individual, and there are lots of variables that can ultimately affect your out-of-pockets costs. The following information can help you if you are interested in getting braces. The best way to know for sure is to consult an orthodontist and discuss your options.
How Much Do Braces Cost: Factors that Influence Price
There are many factors that influence the final costs for braces. Your treatment will be designed to solve a range of possible jaw, teeth, and mouth issues that are specific to you. The type and amount of corrections that need to be made by your orthodontic treatment can greatly affect overall price. Here are just a few variables:
- The age of the patient and the amount of groundwork that must be done before the braces even go on are huge factors. If teeth, such as baby teeth, wisdom teeth or extra teeth need to be pulled first, this will increase the cost.
- The amount of straightening that needs to be done also affects the cost. If your jaw needs to be adjusted, this will affect the cost.
- Another factor that has an effect on how much do braces cost is the amount of time that you will need to wear the braces. Obviously, longer time in braces requires more upkeep and maintenance, so you will have increased costs.
Personal Choices Also Affect Cost
You don’t get much of a choice about how your teeth and jaw are aligned, but there are choices you can make regarding your treatment that can change the cost. There are more options than ever for the type of braces employed to straighten teeth. Lingual, invisible, and ceramic braces are just a few alternatives to traditional metal braces.
Once your orthodontist explains the necessary treatment, you may be able to choose any one of these options. Each option comes with its own set of pros and cons, as well as different price points. Your insurance may also cover some options and not others, or provide different reimbursement percentages for each option.
Additionally, how you care for your braces while you are undergoing treatment can also impact price. If you do not follow your orthodontist’s instructions, you may prolong the time you wear your braces – and treatment duration has a direct effect on what you’ll pay.
Payment Options for Braces
Once you’ve researched “how much do braces cost”, don't let the cost put you off. There are a lot of options that can help you cover the cost.
- First is insurance. Check with your dental or medical insurance provider to determine how much, if any, coverage you have for orthodontia.
- Many orthodontists also offer payment plans. Some offices allow you to make payments directly to the office, or they have a billing company handle this for them.
- You can also look into a loan, a credit card or a Care Credit account that will allow you to finance your orthodontia needs at a low interest rate. This will reduce the up-front expenses that you will be expected to pay, and reduce the burden on your budget.
With all the options available to help with the cost of braces, nearly every patient can afford the smile they want.
A consultation with a professional orthodontist is the best way to determine exactly how much braces will cost.
We are happy to schedule an initial appointment for you that works with your schedule. We provide a full, written estimate so can feel confident that you understand “how much do braces cost” for you. If you are looking to get a brighter, straighter smile that you can feel good about, give us a call today!
