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Metal braces are perhaps the most well-known form of braces treatment. They consist of metal brackets and a metal wire that helps shift teeth into optimal alignment. As a result, metal braces are a great option for correcting severe teeth and jaw misalignments. This includes but is not limited to overcrowding, crooked teeth, teeth gaps, protruding teeth, underbites, overbites, and crossbites.
Metal braces are the best at correcting severe misalignments reliably. Moreover, they are the most affordable option for patients with severe misalignment (in most cases). This is especially the case when clear aligners are not an option due to the severity of the malocclusion.
How Much Do Braces Cost?
If you want to know how to afford braces, the first thing to do is explore your options. Many factors impact braces’ cost, including your age, location, insurance coverage, and reason for treatment. You can get an idea of how much you will pay by comparing the types of braces and their cost. The average cost of braces for each type as follows:
- Traditional braces: This method attaches metal brackets and wires to the front of your teeth to slowly move them into place. Average price: $5,350
- Ceramic braces: Similar to traditional braces, this method uses a clear, transparent ceramic material instead of metal. Average price: $5,500
- Self-ligating braces: This gentler treatment uses a slide mechanism instead of elastics to connect the archwires, providing faster results and fewer office visits because teeth can move on their own without needing adjustments. Average price: $5,500
- Invisible aligners: These clear and custom plastic aligners fit over your teeth like a mouthguard, and you can remove them for eating and cleaning. Average price: $5,700
- Lingual braces: This method attaches metal brackets and wires to the back of your teeth, making them unnoticeable but more expensive. Average price: $12,000
How to Pay for Braces
How can you afford braces without insurance? Don’t worry! When it comes to paying for braces, you have options. Explore how you can get cheaper braces and a confident smile:
Choose a low-cost option
If you want affordable braces, you probably shouldn’t pursue lingual brackets. Ask your orthodontist about all your options and their costs. Braces that require fewer office visits, and are made with cheaper materials, will help knock down that price tag.
Ask for a payment plan
Many orthodontic clinics offer payment plans for patients without insurance. These clinics often partner with financing companies to provide flexible payment options that cost less than conventional credit financing. You can choose between plans with little to no interest and payable by up to two years. These types of plans help tremendously when investing in affordable braces for adults and kids.
Use your Flexible Spending Account.
Even if your dental plan does not cover orthodontics, your employer might offer a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA). The money you put into this account is not taxed, which means your dollars will go further. Contribute the maximum amount and use these funds to pay for expenses not covered by insurance, including braces and deductibles. Depending on the rules, your FSA or HSA might reimburse you for co-pays or office visits as well.
Explore dental assistance programs.
Many states have dental assistance programs to help low-income families get the dental treatment they need. In some cases, not-for-profit organizations can assist with the cost. Other options include free clinics run by medical and dental volunteers or grants to cover costs that you might not be able to cover under extraordinary circumstances.
Though orthodontics can come with a higher price tag, you have many options if you need help paying for braces. Start with conversations with your orthodontist about paying options and with your employer about dental coverage benefits. Then begin your journey toward an improved smile.
Our Insurance Partners
Our office accepts most major dental insurance providers. For additional questions regarding insurance, please contact our office.
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