How Much Do Braces Cost? Payment Plans, Insurance and Budgeting

• Type of treatment: metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces and clear aligners are priced differently.
• Complexity and length: more complex cases take longer and cost more.
• The practice and where it is: costs differ between regions and practices.
• What is included: initial records, adjustments, retainers and follow-up visits.

Dental insurance that covers orthodontics often pays a percentage up to a fixed lifetime maximum, not a percentage of the full bill. Check your policy for the orthodontic benefit, waiting periods and age limits. The practice’s office can often help you check what your plan covers.

Suppose a written quote is $5,500. Your plan pays $1,500, and you make a $500 down payment. That leaves $3,500 to pay. Over 24 months at 0% interest, that is $145.83 a month, and your total out-of-pocket cost is $4,000. If a plan charges interest, the payment and total rise, so compare offers with the calculator.

• Use any orthodontic insurance benefit.
• Ask about interest-free in-house payment plans.
• Where available, pay with a health savings account or flexible spending account, which can use pre-tax money.
• Ask about discounts for paying in full or for multiple family members.
• Consider a dental school clinic, where students are supervised by qualified staff.

1. What exactly does the quote include?
2. What is the payment plan, the down payment and any interest or fees?
3. What if treatment takes longer than estimated?
4. How much does a replacement retainer cost?

Ask for written quotes from more than one practice, and compare like with like (same treatment type and what is included). Then fit the payment into your budget with the family budget calculator. This article is general information and is not dental, insurance or financial advice.