Whether you’re a parent thinking about getting braces for your child or an adult wanting them for yourself, cost is always one of the key considerations.
So, how much do braces cost? The truth is, a lot of factors can impact the cost, from the type of braces you choose, your braces treatment and whether or not you have dental or orthodontic insurance.
At AZ Family & Kids Dental, our mission is to help you, your children, and your whole family achieve a healthy smile. We’re trusted experts in braces for both kids and adults, and we’re dedicated to making the journey as easy as possible.
In this article, we break down the cost of braces with and without insurance and the range of affordable braces options available to you.
What is the cost of braces?
The cost of braces can vary depending on the type you choose. According to the American Dental Association, the average fee for comprehensive orthodontic treatment, which includes braces, is $5,000 to $6,000. This cost will vary based on your individual needs.
In general, traditional metal braces typically range from $3,000 to $7,500. If you opt for lingual braces (which are hidden behind your teeth), the cost can rise to around $10,000 – $12,000.
Clear aligners, while often cheaper, also vary in price based on the complexity of your case. Invisalign, one of the most popular clear aligner systems, can cost anywhere between $1,800 and $8,000, depending on how much correction is needed.
One common question that gets asked is whether adult braces cost more than kids braces? The simple answer is yes; adult braces typically cost more than kids’ braces due to several factors. Adult teeth may require more complex adjustments because they’re fully developed and more resistant to movement, often resulting in longer treatment times.
Adults may also opt for more discreet options like clear aligners or ceramic braces, which can be more expensive than traditional metal braces. Any pre-existing dental issues in adults, such as misalignment or gum health concerns, can also add to the overall cost of the orthodontic treatment.
Types of braces and their costs
When it comes to cost, the type of braces you choose has a significant impact.
Traditional Metal Braces
What they are: Thanks to advancements in orthodontic technology, traditional metal braces are now smaller, stronger, and more efficient than ever. While metal brackets remain a popular choice, you can now opt for tooth-colored or clear braces with ceramic and plastic brackets, which blend in with your teeth, making them less noticeable. These options, especially ceramic braces, provide the same results as traditional metal braces but with added discretion for adults.
What they cost: The cost of traditional metal braces typically ranges between $3,000 and $7,500, depending on things like treatment duration and the complexity of alignment needed. This option is often more affordable than alternatives and is available to both teens and adults.
Clear Aligners
What they are: Clear aligners have revolutionized adult orthodontic treatment by offering a virtually invisible solution to straighten teeth. This approach uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move your teeth into their correct positions. These ‘invisible braces’ offer the benefit of being removable, allowing you to maintain proper oral hygiene during treatment. You can take them out to eat, drink, brush, and floss without the hassle of wires and brackets. This makes clear aligners a convenient and discreet option for adults seeking orthodontic treatment.
What they cost: The cost of clear aligners generally ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the complexity of the case and the number of aligners required for treatment. While typically more expensive than traditional braces, clear aligners offer a discreet, removable solution that’s popular among adults and teens.
From traditional braces to nearly invisible aligners, AZ Family & Kids Dental offers a variety of orthodontic treatments that help you achieve your dream smile at any age.
Does insurance cover braces?
The cost of braces can be daunting, but your dental insurance coverage may help relieve some of the pain. Both employer-provided and individual dental insurance plans often include orthodontic coverage, but it’s essential to check with your insurer beforehand. They can provide details about any limitations on coverage for adult braces.
If your dental plan doesn’t offer orthodontic services, you may be able to add orthodontic insurance to your existing plan – this is known as supplemental orthodontic insurance.
Unfortunately, state insurance or Medicaid programs may not cover adult braces unless they are medically necessary, not just cosmetic. Always check with your dental insurance provider to see which type of braces are covered and what your out-of-pocket costs may be.
To ensure that your experience with us is as stress-free as possible, AZ Family & Kids Dental practice is a reliable PPO Provider that accepts most insurance plans.
How much are dental braces without insurance?
As we mentioned earlier, the cost of traditional metal braces without insurance can be up to $7,500. The price can jump higher if you get ceramic or lingual braces.
The table below shows a breakdown of three common types of braces.
| Type of braces | *Cost without insurance |
| Metal braces | $3,000-$7,500 |
| Clear Aligners | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Ceramic braces | $4,000-$8,000 |
| Lingual braces | $5,000-$13,000 |
*Costs may vary dramatically based on a variety of factors. AZ Family & Kid’s Dental are generally well below the national average.
Does Medicaid cover the cost of braces?
Medicaid can cover braces for children when treatment is deemed medically necessary, though eligibility varies by state.
For children under 21, Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT) programs often allow access to specific dental services, including braces, depending on state guidelines. The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) may also help with treatment costs if certain conditions are met.
Coverage for adult braces under Medicaid is rare and state-dependent, and typically, Medicaid does not cover Invisalign or similar clear aligner treatments.
For eligibility and options, check with your state’s Medicaid office.
Payment options for braces
To help reduce some of the pain in your back pocket, some dental practices offer flexible payment options to make your orthodontic treatment more affordable.
Common options include monthly payment plans that allow patients to spread out the cost over time, often with low or no interest.
Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) can also be used to pay for braces, offering tax benefits.
At AZ Family & Kids Dental, we accept most insurance plans to help you cover some of the cost. We also offer easy financing options through CareCredit, giving you flexible payment solutions that fit your budget.
What is CareCredit?
The CareCredit credit card is a simple, flexible way to pay for a wide range of health and wellness wants and needs for you and your family. With CareCredit, your family can get financing for a range of general, preventative, cosmetic and restorative dentistry.
Why choose AZ Family & Kids Dental for braces
At AZ Family & Kids Dental, we’re experts in all aspects of orthodontics, delivering comfortable and affordable braces solutions for a wide range of patients. We provide affordable braces options for both kids and adults, ensuring you get the smile you deserve.
To make your experience with us as stress-free as possible, we’ve become a reliable PPO Provider that accepts most insurance plans. We want our patients to feel as bright as their smiles, and we know that, insurance or not, navigating the finances of health can be an arduous process.
That’s why our team offers convenient dental financing through CareCredit, so that patients who might not be able to readily pay upfront are still able to secure the procedures they need. Maintaining a healthy mouth throughout the year is enough work — paying for it shouldn’t be a hassle.
Achieve the perfect smile at any age
More than just a proven for misaligned teeth, braces can help with your overall dental health. But for many, the cost of braces can be constricting. But it doesn’t have to be. With insurance options and payment plans available, the smile you’ve always wanted is well within reach.
Whether you choose metal and ceramic braces or new invisible style braces, you can achieve your dream smile at any stage of life.
Choose AZ Family & Kids Dental for your orthodontic care and experience the difference that comes from a patient-focused, comprehensive approach to care.
Our state-of-the-art office is equipped with the latest technology, ensuring that your braces treatment is as efficient and effective as possible. To enhance your experience, we have TVs on the ceiling in every room, allowing you to relax and enjoy your favorite shows during your visit.
We also offer free second opinions, so you can feel confident in your decision to pursue orthodontic treatment with us. We believe in inclusivity, which is why we provide special needs and allergen-friendly accommodations to ensure that all patients receive the care they deserve.
Exceptional customer service is at the heart of our practice. Our friendly, professional team is dedicated to making your orthodontic journey as comfortable and pleasant as possible. Plus, we offer services in Spanish (Se Habla Español) to better serve our diverse patient base.
Let us help you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve! Contact the team to arrange your free orthodontic consultation.