If you’re like many people, you may be wondering why braces are so expensive. After all, they’re just a bunch of metal wires and brackets that are attached to your teeth.
Braces do more than just straighten teeth, though; they also help to correct alignment problems and improve your overall oral health.
In this article, you’ll know why braces are so expensive and how much it costs with or without insurance.
Reasons why braces are so expensive
There are many factors that contribute to the high cost of braces. Take a look at the reasons why braces can be expensive.
1. The cost of materials
The materials themselves can be expensive. Traditional braces are usually made from stainless steel or titanium, which are both strong and durable materials.
On the other hand, ceramic braces are made from a type of hardened plastic, which can add to the cost.
In addition, orthodontic treatment also requires special attachments such as rubber bands, power chains, springs, and others.
2. Types of braces
There are different types of braces such as traditional metal braces, lingual braces, ceramic braces, or clear aligners, and some types of braces may be more expensive than others.
Lingual braces are the most expensive type of braces, followed by ceramic braces. Traditional metal braces are the most affordable type of braces.
The reason for this is that lingual braces are custom-made to fit each individual patient and require special training for the orthodontist to be able to apply them.
Ceramic braces are also more expensive than traditional metal braces because they are made from higher-quality materials and require more time to apply.
However, you can’t get whatever braces you want depending on various factors. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks.
For example, traditional metal braces are the most common type, but they’re also the most visible. Ceramic braces are less visible, but they’re also more fragile.
3. Location of the orthodontist
Orthodontists in certain parts of the country may charge more for their services than those in other parts of the country.
Orthodontic fees may increase if housing and rent are more costly in a specific area.
4. The cost of labor
It takes a lot of time and effort to design and create braces. Besides that, orthodontic treatment usually involves taking impressions of your teeth, which are then used to create a model of your mouth.
From there, the orthodontist will create a treatment plan and custom-fit braces for your mouth.
Moreover, braces require a lot of customization in order to fit each individual patient.
The process of creating custom braces is time-consuming and requires specialized equipment.
5. The cost of dental visits
You’ll need to visit the orthodontist regularly for adjustments, which can add up.
Braces must be regularly adjusted in order to continue straightening teeth. This requires multiple visits to the orthodontist, which can add up over time.
6. Orthodontist fees
Orthodontists are dental specialists who have completed additional training in straightening teeth. As such, they usually charge more for their services than general dentists do.
Orthodontists must undergo years of training in order to be able to adjust and fit braces properly.
7. Insurance coverage
Insurance companies may not cover the full cost of braces, which means that patients may have to pay out-of-pocket for some or all of their treatment.
In many cases, you’ll have to pay a deductible, co-payment, or coinsurance.
8. Variation of cases
Braces can be used to fix various types of cases such as crowding, gapped teeth, overbite, and others. Moreover, each case is unique. So, the cost of treatment can also vary depending on this factor.
9. Replacement braces fees
If you lose, break or damage your braces, you may have to pay for replacement braces.
In some cases, patients may need to have their braces replaced or repaired due to wear and tear. This can add to the cost of treatment.
10. Custom-made braces
If you have a severe alignment problem, you may need custom-made braces. These braces are made to fit your mouth exactly and can be more expensive than standard braces.
11. Complexity of the orthodontic treatment
The more complex your orthodontic treatment is, the more expensive it will be.
Patients with more severe orthodontic problems may require more extensive treatment than those with milder problems. The cost of treatment may rise as a result.
Some patients may require additional treatments, such as tooth extraction, dental bonding, or tooth reshaping, in order to prepare their teeth for braces.
12. Length of the orthodontic treatment
Braces treatment needs 1-2 years to make your teeth straight. This is because trying to move teeth fast may damage your teeth permanently. Duration of treatment contributes to the cost of braces.
In some cases, braces may need to be worn for an extended period of time than usual in order to achieve the desired results. This can increase the overall cost of treatment as well.
13. Retainer fees
You may need to wear a retainer after you get your braces off. Retainers help to keep your teeth in their new, straight position.
14. Taxes
Some patients may have to pay taxes on the cost of their braces.
15. The age of the patient
In general, orthodontic treatment is more expensive for adults than it is for children. This is because adults usually require more complex treatment and more time than children do.
16. Dental health of the patient
Patients with poor dental health may require more extensive treatment than those with good dental health.
17. Family history of dental problems
Patients who have a family history of dental problems may be more likely to require orthodontic treatment than those who don’t have a family history of dental problems.
18. Treatment goals
Patients who have specific treatment goals, such as straightening their teeth in a short period of time, may require more extensive treatment than those who have less specific goals. As a result, treatment expenses can increase.
19. Additional cost
Patients may also need to purchase special products, such as orthodontic wax, toothpaste, electric toothbrush, water floss, and mouthwashes, to care for their teeth while they’re wearing braces.
All of these factors add up to make braces an expensive investment.
Are braces worth the money?
While braces can be expensive, the cost is often worth it for the many benefits they provide.
The decision of whether or not to get braces is a personal one. Some people feel that the cost of braces is worth it in order to have straight teeth, while others are more concerned with the upfront cost.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to get braces is a personal one that depends on each individual’s needs and preferences.
For some people, the cosmetic benefits of having straight teeth are worth the cost of braces. For others, the improved oral health that comes with correctly aligned teeth is the most important factor.
Another benefit of braces is that they can help to improve your self-esteem and confidence. If you feel like your teeth are impacting your quality of life, then braces may be worth the investment.
However, some people become concerned about their looks while wearing braces because they think braces don’t make them look good. They might consider a more esthetic option such as clear aligners such as Invisalign.
But, there is another important for which you should consider braces.
Though braces may not be esthetic friendly, they can help you treat severe orthodontic cases as well.
So, if you have large teeth gaps or severe crowding, you should get braces.
How much do braces cost at most?
The average cost of braces in the United States is about $5,000 to $6,000. You might also have to pay up to $10,000 for it. However, the price can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of braces you choose, how long you need to wear them, and whether or not your insurance covers orthodontic treatment.
If you’re considering getting braces, it’s important to do some research to find out what the average cost is in your area. This will help you to budget for the treatment and make sure that you’re getting the best possible value for your money.
Here is the cost of braces depending on their types.
- Metal braces – $3,000 to $7,000
- Lingual braces – $5,000 to $10,000
- Ceramic braces – $4,000 to $8,000
- Clear aligners – $3,000 to $7,000
How much do braces cost with insurance?
The average cost of braces with insurance is $1,500 to $3,500. But without insurance, the average cost of braces can be as high as $10,000. That’s why it’s so important to have dental insurance that covers orthodontic treatment. Otherwise, you could be stuck paying a large bill for your or your child’s braces out of pocket.
Is there something cheaper than braces?
There are a few alternatives to braces that may be cheaper, but they are not as effective.
One option is to use clear aligners, which are a series of clear plastic trays that gradually move your teeth into place. Clear aligners are less noticeable than metal braces and can be removed for eating and cleaning. However, it can also be very expensive.
Another option is to get dental veneers, thin shells of ceramic or porcelain bonded to the front of your teeth. Veneers can give you a straighter, more even smile without the need for braces. However, this is only effective to close gaps and in mirror cases.
Another option is using retainers, which help keep teeth in place after braces are removed but do not effectively treat misalignment.
In the end, braces are usually the most effective and affordable option for straightening teeth.
If you’re considering getting braces, be sure to talk to your orthodontist about all of your options and find the treatment that’s right for you.
Also, you can check out the cheaper alternative to braces.
How can I lower the cost of braces?
There are a few ways that you can lower the cost of braces. One way is to check with your insurance company to see if orthodontic treatment is covered under your plan. Many insurance plans offer some coverage for braces, which can help to offset the cost.
Another way to reduce the cost of braces is to choose a less expensive option, such as clear aligners or dental veneers. Additionally, some orthodontists offer payment plans that can make braces more affordable.
If you’re considering getting braces, be sure to ask your orthodontist about all of your options and find the one that’s right for you.
Can you get braces for free?
It’s hard to find ways to get braces for free. One way is to find a braces program offered by a nonprofit organization or your orthodontist.
Another way is to join the military, which offers free braces to its members. But, it’s also difficult to find.
You can also check with your state or local government to see if they offer any programs that provide free or reduced-cost braces.
Do dental insurance cover braces?
Dental insurance typically does not cover braces, but there may be some exceptions. You should check with your insurance provider to see if they offer any coverage for braces.
Some dental plans may offer a discount on braces if you purchase them through a participating orthodontist.
Do medical insurance cover braces?
Some medical insurance policies will cover braces. However, coverage varies depending on the insurer, so it’s best to check with your provider to see if they offer any coverage for orthodontic treatments.
If your policy does cover braces, there may be some restrictions, such as a maximum dollar amount or only covering certain types of braces.
Some policies may also require that you get a referral from your primary care doctor before treatment can begin.
Takeaways
Braces can be so expensive depending on several factors such as the type of braces, the length of time you need to wear them, and the severity of your dental condition. Dental insurance may not cover braces, but there may be some exceptions.
If the cost of braces is not in your budget, there are some other options that can help you to achieve straighter teeth. However, you must consider the benefit of braces and take the right decision.
Though braces are a big investment, they can have a hugely positive impact on your life.
If you’re considering braces for yourself or your child, be sure to do your research and find a reputable orthodontist who can give you the best possible care.
Pallab Kishore is a certified dentist and the owner of Orthodontic Braces Care.
He completed BDS in 2014. Now, he is an MS resident in Orthodontics, BSMMU. He likes content writing and has 12+ years of experience in blogging.