How Much Do Braces Cost? A Cost Breakdown of 3 Different Kinds of Braces

Getting dental braces is a common way to correct misaligned teeth, but the treatment can be expensive. You may end up spending thousands of dollars depending on the type of braces your orthodontist recommends, length of time you need the braces, and if you have orthodontic insurance benefits. It’s important to set up a consultation with an orthodontist to get a better idea of your individual medical needs and the different savings options available to you.

What is the average cost of braces with insurance?

The cost of orthodontic treatment can typically cost anywhere from $3,000 to more than $12,000. That price can go up or down depending on where you get your braces done.

An annual survey done by the American Dental Association shows that the average fee for comprehensive orthodontic treatment, which includes braces, is $5,000 to $6,000. But your actual costs will vary based on your individual medical needs.

Your insurance company may cover braces if it’s considered medically necessary and approved by an orthodontist in your insurance plan’s network. If your dental plan doesn’t offer orthodontic services, you may be able to add orthodontic insurance to your existing plan.

However, depending on the type of braces you get and the overall bill, your out-of-pocket expenses may vary significantly. For example, your portion of the costs may depend on whether you have a set copay, coinsurance, or deductible.

Always be sure to check with your dental insurance provider to see which type of braces are covered and what your out-of-pocket costs may be.

What types of braces are there?

There are many types of braces your orthodontist may recommend, including:

• Metal braces: Metal braces are often called traditional braces. They are one of the most common types of braces used and the least expensive type of fixed braces. Metal braces use metal brackets and wire to treat misaligned teeth. These are typically the most noticeable type of braces.

• Ceramic braces: Ceramic braces are much like traditional metal braces, but they are less noticeable. They blend into the teeth more because they are clear or the same color as your tooth. You’ll typically pay a bit more for ceramic than metal braces.

• Lingual braces: Lingual braces are unique in that they go behind your teeth. Because of the type of material used, such as stainless steel or titanium, they are more expensive than metal and ceramic braces. They also require more time to adjust during checkups, adding to the dental fees you’ll have to pay.

How much are braces without insurance?

On average, the cost of braces without insurance can be up to $7,000 for traditional braces. The price can jump higher if you get ceramic or lingual braces.

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• Braces vs. Invisalign: Clear aligners like Invisalign offer comparable effects to traditional braces. Learn more about the pros and cons of each, plus how much you can expect to pay. 

• Protect your investment: Find out which foods you can and can’t eat to help avoid damaging your braces.

• Considering adult braces? Correcting your bite, even as an adult, can benefit you in the long run. Before you make the decision to get adult braces, here are some things you should consider.

The below table shows a breakdown for three common types of braces.

It’s important to set up a consultation with multiple orthodontists to get a better idea of possible costs for your specific needs. Then, find out if insurance will cover part or all of the cost.

Some dental insurance plans may include orthodontic benefits that will cover some of your costs. Many dental providers will help pay for braces for children if it’s considered medically necessary.

What factors affect the cost of braces?

Several factors can affect the total cost you pay for braces, which includes the following:

• Experience and qualifications of the orthodontist: Some orthodontists are affiliated with hospitals or universities while others are certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. If you need a specialized orthodontist, you’ll pay more for services.

• Complexity of treatment and X-rays: Your orthodontist will take X-rays to determine any issues that need to be corrected before braces and to examine the structure and placement of your teeth and jaw bones. If you have a severe overbite/underbite or teeth crowding, your treatment will be more complex.

• Type of braces: Invisalign clear braces will cost more than traditional metal braces because the clear aligners can’t be adjusted during each step of the process. You’ll need to buy a new set.

• Type of appliances and materials used: The quality and type of materials used such as retainers, spacers, clear aligners, and rubber bands will affect your cost.

• Location of orthodontist: An orthodontist in a state with a high cost of living or those in an affluent neighborhood may cost more than an orthodontist in a rural or suburban area.

• Your orthodontist treatment plan: A faster treatment option may raise the price tag. You’ll also have to consider cleanings and checkups while undergoing orthodontic treatment.

• Length of time braces are needed: If you need to wear braces for a longer time to correct your problem, you’ll need to visit your orthodontist more times to have your braces tightened or adjusted.

Does Medicaid cover the cost of braces?

Medicaid does cover the cost of braces for children if deemed necessary, but this depends on standards set by individual states.

Children under age 21 can usually receive certain dental services (depending on your state) under the Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT) program. The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) may also cover the cost of treatment if certain rules are met.

Medicaid may cover braces for adults in rare situations, but you would have to check your options based on the state you live in. If you are looking to get Invisalign, Medicaid won’t cover the costs.

Can you get braces for free?

Although it’s rare to get braces for free, there are few ways to get help paying for the cost. 

• Medicaid: If braces are medically necessary, Medicaid will cover the cost for children. Adults may also receive coverage if they meet the requirements.

• Nonprofits: Organizations like Smile for a Lifetime makes braces more affordable for children from low-income families.

• Community health centers: Dental fees may vary if you are at or below federal poverty level guidelines.

What conditions will supplemental orthodontic insurance help cover the cost of braces?

Supplemental orthodontic insurance is an addition to your existing dental insurance and typically can’t be bought on its own. It can help pay for certain procedures like braces. Also, each plan is different depending on your provider.

Before you buy supplemental orthodontic insurance, it’s important to ask questions about:

• Benefits

• Coverage

• Limits

• Premium costs

• Requirements

Orthodontic insurance will typically pay a certain percentage of your bill or a set dollar amount. Let’s say your insurance will cover 50% of your bill for braces. If your braces cost $5,000, you only have to pay $2,500.

Which is cheaper: braces or Invisalign?

Traditional metal braces typically cost less than clear teeth aligners like Invisalign. But it depends on how long your Invisalign treatment lasts. Invisalign can cost around $1,800 to $9,500, while traditional metal braces can cost between $3,000 to $7,000. Some dental insurance plans consider Invisalign a cosmetic procedure and don’t cover it.

Tips to save money on costs associated with braces

The cost of braces can be expensive depending on your personal needs. Here are some ways to save money:

• Ask your orthodontist about dental payment plans and discounts.

• Schedule consultations with multiple orthodontists to compare prices and services.

• Search for dental clinics and community health clinics to get reduced-cost services.

• Get in touch with nonprofits like Smile for a Lifetime.

• Join a dental savings plan.

• Pay with a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA).

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Written by:

Eileen Qiu

Eileen Qiu has a master’s degree in journalism from Boston University. She previously wrote for USA Today, covering a wide range of topics, from housing and mental health to food insecurity.

Edited by:

Charlene Rhinehart, CPA

Charlene Rhinehart, CPA, is a personal finance editor at GoodRx. She has been a certified public accountant for over a decade.

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