When people decide to pursue braces, whether it be to improve their bite or for cosmetics, their first question is often the same. How much will braces cost? There are several elements that factor into the final cost of braces, which vary upon the individual. Learn some of these factors, and why braces differ in price for a child, versus an adult.
Determining the Cost of Braces
First and foremost, your unique dental issues will determine the options that are available to you. Not every type of braces perform equally. They can be less or more effective in a variety of areas, from shifting the jaw to closing gaps, or straightening teeth. The extremity of the problems that need to be resolved will also dictate the amount of time required. The worse the dental issue, the longer it is likely to take to correct, and the more it may cost.
Prices also increase based on appearance. More and more, people want procedures that are less noticeable. This can come at a steeper price, due to both the necessary materials and skills of the orthodontist. A board-certified orthodontist who is a specialist in their field, or has dedicated extensive time to this practice, will cost more. Be sure to factor the expertise of an orthodontist into your budget, and do your research before going forward.
The following are treatment options and their average cost nationally:
- Traditional metal brackets: $3,000-$6,000
- Tooth-colored ceramic braces: $4,000-$8,000
- Invisible braces, like Invisalign, removable for eating and brushing: $3,000-$8,000
- Lingual braces, which are attached on the back of the teeth: $8,000-$10,000
It is important that you consider costs that may emerge following braces. These additional costs may include replacement retainers if they become lost or broken, and/or restorative work with your general dentist post-orthodontic treatment.
Braces for Kids
If you are deciding whether to invest in braces for your child, the sooner the better. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child receive their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of seven years old.
The younger a child is, the easier the corrections are. Not only will the treatment be more effective since they are growing, but it will take less time and therefore cost less. This is usually due to treatment during the growth of the jaw, instead of after.
Some bite discrepancies can only be corrected while a child is growing. If these bite discrepancies are not addressed during this timeframe, surgery may be the option for correction later. For best results, make sure your child complies with the orthodontist’s instructions and practices good oral hygiene.
Braces for Adults
Increasingly, adults are seeking braces to correct overbites, improve their ability to chew, and properly clean their teeth.
Because a pleasing aesthetic effect during treatment is a high priority for most adults, Invisalign and clear braces are popular choices.
If you are thinking about getting braces as an adult, make sure to also keep in mind when they will come off. Depending on their personal situation, a typical adult would wear braces anywhere from about 18 months, up to three years, with at least 12 months using a retainer.
At Wiewora and Dunn Orthodontics, patient care and superior customer service are our top priorities.
Wiewiora and Dunn Orthodontics offers in-house financing, third-party financing, low down payments, and, in general, will work within your financial situation to make achieving the smile of your dreams possible.
Dr. Cara L. Wiewiora and Dr. Rick M. Dunn treat patients at our Lake Mary and Longwood offices. Our professional staff will take photos and radiographs for the orthodontist to review, who will then recommend the best treatment option for your specific needs. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
