How Much Do Braces Cost and What Influences Their Price?
Braces are widely known as the number one corrective device to straighten teeth. While they are most often used by youths when their jaws are still growing, over the past several decades, there has been a steady increase in the number of adults with braces.
While braces are an effective way of treating dental problems, they have always been known to be expensive. If you’re thinking of getting braces, you’ll probably already know that it’s not going to come cheap. It’s wise to have a thorough understanding of how much braces cost, so you can pick a treatment that aligns with your finances. Here we will explore the different types of braces, their price points, and what can influence how much you fork out.
Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces have long been the go-to when it comes to straightening teeth. While some people regard them as unsightly and a chore to wear, metal braces do tend to be the least expensive of them all. For metal braces, you can expect to pay between $3,000 and $7,000.
Regarding treatment length, metal braces range between 1 and 3 years. However, you may need to wear them for a shorter or longer period. This depends on your personal situation.
Clear Braces
Clear braces are made from a blend of plastics that fit over the teeth. Like with any other kind of brace, clear braces put pressure against particular areas of the teeth to move them into the right position over time.
The difference between clear braces, when compared to ceramic and metal ones, is they can be taken out easily for eating, brushing, or flossing. Clear braces tend to be more expensive than traditional ones. The price usually falls between $3,000 and $8,000. If you opt for clear braces, ALIGNERCO outlines the prices of braces in the US. They specialize in clear aligners that can work their magic in as little as 6 months.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces share similarities with metal braces such as the same shape and size. However, they have clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend into the teeth. Some have tooth-colored wires which can make them look less noticeable.
Because of this, ceramic braces are usually more expensive than metal ones. You can expect to pay between $2,000 and $8,000 for ceramic braces. If you opt for ceramic braces, they can stain easily if you do not care for them well.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are just like conventional metal braces. Although, the key difference is the wires and brackets are fitted behind the teeth. One of the pros of this is they’re invisible from the outside, which may appeal to those who want a more discreet look.
The downside of lingual braces is they are normally the most expensive type. You can expect to pay between $5,000 and $13,000 for lingual braces.
Factors That Influence the Cost of Braces
There are certain factors that can influence braces cost US. One of these is where you live in the country. For example, if you live in a bustling city like New York where the cost of living is greater, you will most likely have to pay more for braces when compared to someone living in a rural location. Other factors include the age you are when starting treatment and your insurance benefits.
If you have Medicaid, some states may provide braces coverage for those who need braces to treat medical conditions. Also, because your jaw is fully formed as an adult, this means your teeth won’t move as quickly, meaning it will take longer for braces to fix your bite. Your oral hygiene plays a part in how much you pay for braces too. Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use mouthwash before and during braces treatment.
How to Make Braces More Affordable
As established, braces can be incredibly expensive. However, there are several things you can do to lower the cost. This includes purchasing dental insurance which covers braces, getting your braces from a dental school that provides reduced-cost treatment and obtaining quotes from several orthodontists.
Other ways to save money on braces include beginning treatment earlier to avoid bigger problems later down the line, asking about payment plans, or if you can afford it, paying the total price upfront. Just remember that there are several routes you can go down.
There are a number of reasons why you may be looking into getting braces. Whether you’ve got bite issues, too much space between teeth, or you have overcrowding, braces can be an effective way to fix these dental problems and help you achieve a healthy, aligned smile.
Knowing the costs of braces treatment before paying any money is important. Because some braces will cost more than others, don’t rush into making any quick decisions. Whatever you decide on, make sure to practice excellent oral hygiene throughout the process, otherwise, you may have to end up paying out more for additional treatment.
