Metal braces are the most affordable and common type of orthodontic treatment available today. The average cost without insurance ranges from $3,000 to $7,000.
Prices vary depending on many factors. These include the location of the dentist, the severity of the orthodontic issue, the orthodontist’s expertise and experience, and the duration of your treatment.
If you cannot afford to pay the total cost of braces upfront, there are some financial options you can explore. We discuss them below. We also discuss the prices and factors affecting the cost of traditional braces in more detail.
Factors Affecting Metal Braces Cost
Orthodontist’s expertise and experience
An orthodontist with extensive experience will likely charge a higher fee to compensate for the many years spent in the field. The same goes for those with impressive track records.
Conversely, orthodontists with less experience and an underwhelming track record may settle for a lower fee.
The severity of the orthodontic issue
The severity of the orthodontic issue can also influence the cost of traditional metal braces. Serious orthodontic issues such as severe overbite, extreme crowding, and severe underbite require more sessions, specialized techniques, and visits, which can result in a higher cost of treatment.
On the other hand, mild orthodontic issues like minor crowding and slightly crooked teeth require little attention from the orthodontist. The result? A lower fee.
Location and clinic reputation
Orthodontists in urban or affluent areas like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago are likely to charge higher fees. However, those in rural areas with a lower cost of living are likely to charge lower fees.
Additionally, dental clinics with an impressive reputation may charge a premium for braces due to their higher expertise and experience.
Average Metal Braces Prices
The national average cost of metal braces ranges from $3,000 to $7,000 without insurance. The cost is influenced by factors like the orthodontist’s expertise and experience, the severity of the orthodontic issue, location and clinic reputation, and duration of your treatment.
The average cost of braces also varies by location.
Here is a table showing the estimated price range of traditional braces per location in the US:
| State/ City | Average cost of Metal Braces |
| New York City | $3,000 to $7,000 |
| Los Angeles | $3,000 to $6,000 |
| Florida | $4,000 to $6,500 |
| California | $5,000 to $7,500 |
| Houston | $4,000 to $6,500 |
| Jersey City | $4,000 to $6,000 |
| North Miami Beach | $4,000 to $7,500 |
| Johnson City | $3,000 to $7,000 |
| Illinois | $3,000 to $7,000 |
In addition to the base cost of braces, there are other expenses to consider. These additional costs include:
| Additional Expenses | Cost |
| Consultation | 0-$350 |
| Tooth extraction | $75 to $450 per tooth |
| Retainers | $250 to $600 per arch |
| Adjustments | $120 to $300 |
| Emergency orthodontist visits | $100 to $300 per visit |
Additional expenses can add to the overall cost of orthodontic treatment. You must understand these expenses before committing to an orthodontic treatment plan.
Financing Options for Metal Braces
If you can’t afford to pay for brace treatment outright, some financial options can help you manage the cost.
Dental insurance coverage
Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of braces (20-50%), up to a lifetime maximum. Some cover the entire cost, depending on your coverage policy and the type of brace you get.
Most insurance policies only cover the cost of orthodontics for children and teenagers under 18. You can purchase supplemental orthodontic insurance if your insurance package doesn’t cover your orthodontic treatment. This insurance provides extra coverage for braces and other orthodontic procedures.
Check your insurance policy to see if it includes orthodontic coverage for dental braces. Even better, contact your Insurance provider to understand your orthodontic coverage.
Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs)
Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs) are employer-based savings accounts that allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars for eligible medical expenses, like orthodontic treatments. In addition to helping you reduce the out-of-pocket cost of braces, these special accounts offer tax advantages.
You are required to use up the funds in your FSA within the calendar year. On the other hand, HSA funds roll over annually and remain with you even if you switch jobs.
You can combine your FSA or HSA money with your dental insurance to manage the cost of your braces.
Payment plans and financing through the orthodontist’s office
If your insurance plan doesn’t cover the cost of braces, you can turn to payment plans. Many orthodontists offer in-house payment plans to help patients manage the cost of their treatment by spreading it over a long period. These plans come with zero or low interest rates, depending on the dentist.
In addition to payment plans, some orthodontists work with third-party lenders like CareCredit or LendingClub. These lenders help settle the overall cost of the brace on your behalf, and you repay them gradually via monthly installments.
While payment plans and third-party financing don’t cover the cost of your treatment like insurance, they make it more affordable so you can receive treatment immediately.
Tips for Managing Metal Braces Cost
Are you looking for ways to manage the cost of your metal braces? Here are a few tips that might help.
Researching and comparing orthodontists
When looking to get traditional braces, try researching and comparing orthodontists. Each provider charges different prices for braces depending on their experience, location, and type of treatment.
Start by researching local orthodontists. Read online reviews and check their credentials. You can schedule a consultation with a few to compare their treatment plans and pricing to determine which suits your budget and needs.
Feel free to ask for referrals from family, dentists, and friends. This can save you time and effort.
Inquiring about in-house financing options
Most dentists understand that getting braces can be expensive, so they offer in-house financing options such as monthly payment plans.
Monthly payment plans allow you to divide the total cost of your orthodontic care into an affordable amount to be paid monthly. Some dentists offer plans that require down payments (around 20%) or interest rates. Be sure to ask questions about the terms of the plan before committing.
Utilizing insurance benefits and flexible spending accounts
Many dental insurance plans offer some orthodontic coverage, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses. Check with your insurance provider to see if your policy covers braces. If it does, check the lifetime maximum provided compared to the cost of your braces.
In addition to insurance, you can use a flexible spending account to manage the cost of your metal braces. A Flexible spending account (FSA) allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars for eligible medical or dental expenses, like braces. With this account, you can save 20-30% on your overall treatment cost.
It’s worth noting that FSAs can be paired with dental insurance. You can use them to cover treatment costs that your insurance doesn’t cover.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Metal braces are one of the most common and affordable braces. However, before choosing to get one, you should understand the factors that affect its total cost.
You should also research available financial options like dental insurance, FSAs, HSAs, and payment plans to help ease the burden of out-of-pocket costs.
Schedule a consultation with a qualified dentist to compare costs and discuss payment and treatment options. Ultimately, ensure you select a payment plan and treatment that suits your alignment needs and budget.
FAQs
How much do braces cost?
Depending on the type, getting braces could cost between $3,000 and $10,000. Ceramic braces are the most expensive, costing anywhere from $4,000 to $8,000. Traditional braces, which are made of metal brackets and wires, typically cost less ( $3,000 to $7,000). The price of braces typically depends on factors like the dentist’s location, experience, severity of the dental issue, etc.
What are the types of braces?
Common types of braces include metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, self-ligating braces, and clear aligners like Invisalign. Lingual braces and clear aligners ( Invisalign treatment) are the most expensive, while metal wire braces are the cheapest.
Can you get braces for free with Medicaid?
Medicaid can cover the cost of metal braces for eligible individuals under the age of 18/21, depending on the state. But they are less likely to provide coverage for adults. To qualify, the brace treatment must be considered a medical necessity, not a cosmetic one. You can consider dental or orthodontic insurance if you need help paying for your braces.
How much are braces per month?
The average monthly cost for braces ranges from $100 to $250. This depends on the total price, your down payment, and the duration of your financial plan. You can leverage financing options provided by dentists if you can’t afford to pay for your treatment outright.
How much do braces cost for a 13-year-old?
The average cost of braces for teens with insurance ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 out of pocket. Without insurance, the full cost can range between $3,000 and $6,000. The exact price depends on factors like the type of brace, the complexity of the issue, the length of treatment needed, geographical location, and more.
