Lingual braces costs vary depending on the location of your orthodontist. Orthodontists in urban or affluent areas are expected to charge more than those in rural or low-income areas.
The cost of lingual braces also depends on other factors. This includes your orthodontist’s experience level, the severity of your orthodontic issue, treatment time, and insurance plan.
Generally, the cost of lingual braces without insurance ranges from $8,000 to $10,000. The cost varies by region, with New York City ($5,000 to $13,500) and Los Angeles ($8,000 to $15,000) among the states with the highest average price.
Looking for a deeper breakdown? Below, we discuss lingual brace costs, regional price differences, influencing factors, and available payment options.
Understanding Lingual Braces Cost
Lingual braces are invisible braces designed to straighten misaligned teeth and correct bite issues. They come with customized brackets and wires attached to the back of your teeth (the tongue-facing side) rather than the front.
Lingual braces are a wise choice for those considering orthodontic treatment. They are custom-made to fit each patient’s mouth and alignment needs.
Unlike traditional braces, lingual braces are practically invisible, making them a good choice for patients who want to be discreet about their treatment.
Factors affecting the cost of lingual braces
Lingual braces are similar to traditional braces, with both having the same basic components (metal brackets and wires). However, unlike metal or ceramic braces, lingual braces are more expensive.
Their costs are influenced by factors like:
- Orthodontist’s location: Dentists practicing in affluent areas like New York City and California will likely charge more for your treatment than those in low-income areas.
- The severity of your orthodontic issue: Complex dental issues like severe tooth crowding or bite misalignment would require more visits to your dentist. The result? An increase in the overall cost of treatment.
- Orthodontist’s level of experience: The more experienced the orthodontist is, the higher they’ll charge and vice versa. Additionally, those with a strong reputation are likely to charge higher fees.
- Insurance plan: Your insurance coverage can help reduce the overall cost of your orthodontic treatment. Confirm with your insurance provider whether your treatment is covered before visiting the orthodontist.
- Treatment duration: The duration of treatment can also influence costs of braces. Patients with complex cases typically require more treatment time. The result? Higher costs.
Conversely, patients with less severe cases often need less treatment period, resulting in lower costs.
Average Prices of Lingual Braces
The national average cost of lingual braces (without insurance) ranges from $8,000 to $10,000. This cost depends on factors including the complexity of your case, duration of treatment, and orthodontist experience. It also varies per region.
Below is a breakdown of the regional price variations.
| City / States | Average Cost of Lingual Braces |
| New York City | $5,000 – $13,000 |
| Indiana | $8,000– $10,000 |
| Chicago | $8,000 – $13,000 |
| Dallas | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| Houston | $8,000 – $10,000 |
| Los Angeles | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Jersey City | $8,000 – $10,000 |
| Jacksonville | $5,000 – $10,000 |
In addition to the cost of the lingual braces, there are other extra costs to consider. They include x-rays, tooth extractions, cost of retainers, emergency repairs, and regular adjustment visits.
These additional expenses can add to the overall cost of your treatment. You may want to factor them into your budget for the braces.
Payment Options for Lingual Braces
Here are the most common ways to pay for braces
Insurance coverage
Most health insurance companies don’t offer coverage for orthodontics as they are deemed cosmetic dental treatments. Dental insurance, on the other hand, provides coverage for orthodontic treatments. However, the extent of coverage varies, with 50% being a common figure.
If your dental plan lacks orthodontic coverage, consider buying supplemental orthodontic insurance.
Paying for your brace with dental/orthodontic insurance can reduce your overall treatment cost. Depending on your plan’s lifetime maximum, this could leave you with $1,000 to $3,000 in out-of-pocket expenses.
Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs)
Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs) are tax-free savings accounts that help cover healthcare expenses, including orthodontic treatments.
With these special accounts, you can set aside pre-taxed dollars for dental treatment, especially for out-of-pocket expenses your insurance doesn’t cover. FSAs and HSAs can also help reduce your taxable income for that year.
Payment plans and financing options
Many orthodontic offices offer in-house payment plans. These plans allow patients to spread the cost of their treatment into affordable monthly payments.
Payment plans require an initial deposit of $500-$1,500 and a monthly payment of $100-$250 spread across your treatment time. Monthly payment plans depend on factors like the location of the dentist office, the severity of the case, and the treatment duration.
Making an Informed Decision
Lingual braces are an important investment in your oral health and appearance. Hence, it’s essential you choose the right orthodontist for your treatment.
You can start by seeking referrals from family members and friends. This helps reduce the chances of disappointment while streamlining your search.
Before settling for a dentist, check their credentials. Are they board-certified? Do they have experience in lingual treatment? How many lingual cases have they handled?
Additionally, try to schedule consultations with them to understand how they communicate, their office environment, treatment plan, etc.
Evaluating the overall value
While cost is essential when choosing an orthodontist, you should also look at the long-term value. Is their post-treatment care top-notch?
What about the technology used? Are you getting a plan designed for your alignment needs? If the overall value is exceptional, the cost should be a minor concern.
Budgeting for lingual braces cost
Hidden braces aren’t cheap. So, ensure you budget for your treatment beforehand. To do that, you need to determine the cost of the braces, including other extra costs. You can request detailed estimates from a dentist to determine the total expenses.
Additionally, compare quotes from multiple orthodontics. Inquire about payment plans and discounts. Next, start saving early. And don’t forget to check if your insurance covers your treatment.
Conclusion
While lingual braces are more expensive than traditional metal braces, their long-term benefit outweighs their price. They are discreet, highly aesthetic, customized for comfort and precision, and effective for severe dental cases.
If you can’t pay for your treatment upfront, there are payment options to consider. These include flexible spending and health savings accounts, dental insurance, and in-house payment plans. Remember to review the payment options and select one that suits your budget and treatment needs.
FAQS
Which is cheaper? Invisalign vs Braces?
Generally, traditional braces are cheaper than Invisalign, with average costs ranging from $4,500 to $8,500. The cost of Invisalign ranges from $6,000 to $9,000. The final price of either treatment depends on the chosen treatment option and the complexity of your alignment needs.
Who is a good candidate for lingual braces?
Individuals with mild to severe misalignment, and those looking for a low-key treatment are ideal candidates for hidden braces.
Which type of braces are the cheapest?
Clear aligners or conventional metal braces are the cheapest. Patients who are ready to pay twice as much for additional benefits can consider lingual or ceramic braces.
Can I get a lingual brace if I have a tight budget?
Yes, you can through affordable payment options like monthly payment plans, financing, or by using Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Savings Accounts (FSAs).
