How Much Do Braces Cost?

As a general estimate, braces typically cost anywhere from $3,000 up to over $10,000. Most dental insurance plans won’t cover orthodontic care for adults, though they may provide some coverage for kids.

Braces are devices used to correct bites and align teeth. They’re most commonly applied to adolescents while the jaw is still developing. Still, over the last 20–30 years there has been a noticeable increase in adults getting braces.

It’s now estimated that 20 to 25 percent of patients visiting an orthodontist are adults. An orthodontist is a dental specialist focused on aligning teeth and jaws.

Braces can successfully treat many dental problems, but they have traditionally been costly. The final price depends on several variables, including the type of braces, duration of treatment, and geographic location.

Below, learn the typical costs for each kind of braces, what drives those costs, and ways to reduce your expenses.

Average cost of braces without insurance

Costs for braces vary widely but commonly fall within the $3,000 to $10,000 range. Amounts can be higher or lower depending on circumstances.

If you live in a higher-cost area, need significant tooth movement, or choose a less visible option, expect to pay toward the upper end of the spectrum.

In its 2018 annual survey, the American Dental Association reported that the average fee for comprehensive orthodontic treatment, which covers braces, is roughly $5,000 to $6,000.

Certain brace types carry higher price tags than others. Here’s a breakdown.

Standard metal braces

Traditional metal braces use metal brackets and an archwire to gradually move teeth over months or years.

They’re usually the most affordable option but also the most conspicuous. Typical costs are around $3,000 to $7,500.

Ceramic braces

Ceramic braces work like metal braces but use clear or tooth-colored brackets to be less obvious. They’re often a bit pricier than metal braces. Expect costs ranging from $2,000 to $8,500.

Invisalign braces

Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners made from a blend of plastics that snap over your teeth. An orthodontist makes a custom set by taking impressions or scans of your bite. Like other braces, they apply pressure to specific teeth to move them into better positions over time.

Unlike metal or ceramic options, they’re removable for eating and cleaning.

Invisalign typically costs somewhat more than traditional braces, generally between $3,000 and $7,000.

Your dentist or orthodontist may suggest alternative clear aligner brands, which can change the overall price.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces function like conventional braces but are attached to the backs of the teeth rather than the fronts. They’re nearly invisible but tend to be the most expensive choice.

Lingual braces usually range from $5,000 to $13,000.

Average cost of braces with insurance

Most dental insurance plans don’t cover orthodontics for adults. Some insurers offer add-on orthodontic riders that may provide benefits. If your policy does cover treatment, it’s typically only when braces are considered medically necessary.

Insurers are more likely to partially cover braces for children under 18 when the treatment is deemed necessary.

Your plan is most likely to cover traditional metal braces. If you pick a pricier option, many insurers — such as Delta Dental — may require you to pay the difference.

For example, if your insurer covers 50 percent of a basic braces plan but not other types, your out-of-pocket costs might look like this.

Does Medicaid cover braces?

Medicaid coverage differs by state, though federal rules set some minimums. For children, every state must at least cover:

• dental care to relieve pain and treat infections
• restorative dental services
• medically necessary orthodontic services (including braces)

Some states may also extend braces coverage to adults for specific medical issues.

To see details for your state, check the Medicaid website.

What affects the average cost of braces for children

The American Dental Association notes that braces are typically provided to children or teens between about ages 8 and 14.

Braces are often cheaper for kids since treatment tends to require less time than for adults. In general, the longer the braces are worn, the higher the cost.

What affects the average cost of adult braces

Adult braces usually cost a bit more than those for children. Because an adult’s jaw is fully developed and teeth move more slowly, treatment often takes longer.

A 2018 review of studies found the average treatment duration is about 19.9 months.

Insurers are also less likely to provide coverage for adult orthodontic care than for children’s.

Other factors that impact the cost of braces

Braces prices vary. Factors that can affect the cost include:

• your geographic location
• age
• type of braces selected
• duration of treatment
• the orthodontist’s experience
• how well you maintain and care for your braces
• how far the teeth must be shifted

How to save money on costs associated with braces

Although braces can be expensive, there are several strategies to reduce the cost. Consider these options:

• purchase dental or orthodontic insurance that includes braces
• seek treatment at a dental school, which may offer lower fees
• get estimates from multiple orthodontists
• care for your braces properly to avoid extra repair charges
• begin treatment early to prevent more extensive correction later
• use a flexible spending account (FSA)
• pay in full upfront if a discount is available
• ask about monthly or in-office payment plans
• explore nonprofit programs like Smiles Changes Lives, which helps low-income families cover kids’ braces. There’s a $30 nonrefundable application fee, and qualifying families may pay as little as $650 for a child’s braces.

Takeaway

The cost of braces can differ substantially based on factors such as location, treatment length, and brace type. Generally, you can expect to pay roughly $3,000 to $10,000, though actual prices can fall outside that interval.

Most insurers do not cover adult orthodontics but will often provide at least partial coverage for children when treatment is medically necessary.