How Much Will Braces Cost Me?
Estimate your orthodontic treatment cost, insurance contribution, out-of-pocket amount, monthly payment and total budget based on your treatment type, complexity and location.
Quick Estimate
Treatment suitability depends on individual assessment by an orthodontist.
Refine Your Estimate
Age can influence treatment planning and duration, but the orthodontist determines treatment based on the patient's individual condition.
What are you trying to correct?
Only an orthodontist can determine the actual diagnosis and treatment complexity.
Many treatments take a number of months to complete, but actual timelines depend on the plan, complexity and individual response.
Does your treatment plan include any of these? (optional)
Insurance & Financing
Some plans exclude coverage for treatment that started before the plan's effective date.
Insurance may base benefits on an allowed amount rather than the provider's list price. Leave at $0 to use the treatment estimate.
Insurance estimates are illustrative. Your plan documents and insurer determine actual benefits.
Enter the dollar amount you expect your insurance to pay toward orthodontics.
Simplified estimate. Does not represent individualized tax advice.
Some practices offer family discounts. Only apply if confirmed by the orthodontist.
Financing
Some practices offer in-house payment plans including low- or no-interest options. Terms vary.
Your Estimated Braces Cost
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Typical estimate: —
Out-of-Pocket
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Monthly Payment
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Insurance
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Duration
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This is a planning estimate, not a dental treatment quote. Actual cost depends on your orthodontist, treatment plan, insurance benefits and location.
Cost Breakdown
Cost Composition
Financing Summary
Treatment Type Comparison
Insurance Impact
Monthly Payment by Term
HSA/FSA Tax Savings
Estimated tax savings by paying with pre-tax dollars: —
Simplified estimate. Does not represent individualized tax advice.
Family Orthodontic Estimate
Total family cost: — | Family OOP: —
Case Complexity
Moderate — Only an orthodontist can determine actual case complexity.
Your Biggest Cost Drivers
Treatment Type Comparison
Payment Plan Comparison
Ways to Reduce Your Orthodontic Cost
What-If Scenarios
Is My Quote Fair?
Enter what your orthodontist quoted you:
I Can Afford $___ /Month — What's My Budget?
What Treatment Fits My Budget?
Enter your total treatment budget to see which orthodontic options may fit.
This shows cost ranges that may fall within your budget. It does not represent a clinical recommendation.
Can I Afford Braces?
Enter a treatment cost and your monthly budget to see what financing term you would need.
Compare Two Orthodontist Quotes
Questions to Ask Your Orthodontist
Orthodontic Assistance Programs
These programs may help families who qualify for reduced-cost orthodontic care. Acceptance is not guaranteed.
Find Orthodontic Care in Your Area
Orthodontic pricing varies 20–40% between practices. Get 2–3 consultations before committing.
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Braces vs Clear Aligners — Cost Comparison
| Feature | Metal Braces | Ceramic | Clear Aligners | Lingual |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost range | $3,000–$7,500 | $4,000–$8,500 | $3,500–$8,000 | $6,000–$13,000 |
| Typical duration | 18–24 mo | 18–24 mo | 12–24 mo | 18–30 mo |
| Visibility | Visible | Tooth-colored | Nearly invisible | Hidden |
| Removable | No | No | Yes | No |
| Complex cases | Excellent | Good | Moderate | Good |
Treatment suitability depends on individual assessment. No type is universally better — it depends on case complexity, patient preference, and orthodontist recommendation.
Metal vs Ceramic Braces Cost
Metal and ceramic braces use similar fixed-bracket technology but differ in appearance, pricing, and maintenance considerations.
| Factor | Metal Braces | Ceramic Braces |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Stainless steel brackets and wires | Tooth-colored or clear ceramic/porcelain brackets with metal or tooth-colored wires |
| Appearance | Visible metallic brackets | Less visible — blends with tooth color |
| Cost range | $3,000–$7,500 | $4,000–$8,500 |
| Durability | Highly durable — rarely break | More fragile — may chip or break; may require replacement |
| Staining | Does not stain | Brackets resist staining but elastic ties may discolor |
| Treatment duration | 18–24 months typical | 18–24 months typical — similar to metal |
| Complex cases | Suitable for all case complexities | Suitable for most cases; metal may be preferred for very complex treatment |
| Insurance | Covered the same as other braces types under orthodontic benefits | Covered the same — insurance does not typically differentiate between bracket types |
The cost difference between metal and ceramic braces varies by provider. Treatment suitability depends on individual assessment by an orthodontist.
Braces Cost by State
Orthodontic costs vary by location. Below are CostPrism modeled estimates for metal braces. See individual state pages for detailed analysis.
What Does an Orthodontic Quote Include?
What is included in a treatment fee varies by practice. Always verify exactly what your quoted fee covers before beginning treatment.
Usually Included by Most Providers
- ✓ Braces/aligners (appliance)
- ✓ Installation/bonding
- ✓ Adjustment visits during treatment
- ✓ Monitoring appointments
- ✓ Removal of appliance
- ✓ Treatment planning
May Be Charged Separately
- ● Initial consultation
- ● X-rays and diagnostic records
- ● Digital scans and photos
- ● Retainers (initial and replacement)
- ● Emergency visits for broken brackets/wires
- ● Replacement brackets or aligners
- ● Additional appliances (expander, TADs)
- ● Extractions (often referred to oral surgeon)
- ● Refinement aligners
- ● Treatment extension beyond quoted duration
Braces Cost for Adults
Adult orthodontic treatment costs are generally comparable to teen treatment. The AAO reports that about 27% of orthodontic patients are adults. Treatment may take slightly longer due to denser bone structure (typically 5–15% longer), but cost differences are driven more by complexity and treatment type than by age alone.
Many dental insurance plans limit orthodontic benefits to dependents under 18 or 19. Adults may have reduced or no orthodontic coverage. Verify your plan's age restrictions.
- • Treatment may require additional periodontal coordination
- • Clear aligners are popular among adult patients
- • Insurance coverage may be limited by age restrictions
- • HSA/FSA funds can offset costs regardless of age
- • Some practices offer adult-specific payment plans
Braces Cost for Children & Teens
Most orthodontic treatment begins between ages 9 and 14. The AAO recommends an initial evaluation by age 7 to identify early intervention needs. Children enrolled in Medicaid may qualify for orthodontic coverage when treatment is medically necessary under EPSDT.
Dental insurance orthodontic benefits typically cover children under 18 or 19. A common benefit structure is 50% coverage up to a $1,500 lifetime maximum. Verify your specific plan details.
- • Early evaluation by age 7 recommended by AAO
- • Phase I (early) treatment may be needed for some conditions
- • Medicaid/CHIP may cover medically necessary treatment
- • Insurance orthodontic benefits are more commonly available
- • Treatment during growth can take advantage of jaw development
Braces Cost Without Insurance
Many patients pay for orthodontic treatment without dental insurance. Here are options to manage the cost.
In-house payment plans
Many orthodontists offer monthly payment plans, sometimes with low or no interest.
HSA / FSA pre-tax savings
Pay with pre-tax dollars for effective savings of 22–37% depending on your tax bracket.
Third-party financing
CareCredit, LendingClub, and other providers offer dental financing with promotional periods.
Dental school clinics
University orthodontic programs offer treatment at 30–50% below private practice rates under faculty supervision.
Dental discount plans
Membership plans ($100–$200/year) may provide 20–40% discounts on orthodontic treatment.
Charitable programs
Smiles Change Lives, Smile for a Lifetime, and Gifted Smiles offer reduced-cost care for qualifying families.
Negotiation
Ask about cash-pay discounts or reduced fees for paying the full amount upfront.
Availability and terms of these options vary by provider and location. CostPrism does not guarantee eligibility for any program or discount.
Cosmetic vs Medically Necessary Orthodontics
Insurance coverage may depend on whether orthodontic treatment meets the plan's medical-necessity criteria. Many dental insurance plans cover orthodontics only when it is considered medically necessary — not purely cosmetic.
Conditions like significant malocclusion, impacted teeth, or bite problems affecting function may qualify as medically necessary. Minor spacing or alignment issues are often considered cosmetic.
Only a qualified orthodontist can determine whether your treatment qualifies as medically necessary. CostPrism does not diagnose or determine medical necessity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do braces cost in 2026?
Braces cost $3,000–$13,000 depending on type and complexity. Metal braces: $3,000–$7,500. Ceramic: $4,000–$8,500. Clear aligners (Invisalign): $3,500–$8,000. Lingual: $6,000–$13,000. At-home aligners for mild cases: $1,500–$3,500.
How much do braces cost without insurance?
Without insurance, braces cost $3,000–$8,000 for metal and $3,500–$13,000 for other types. Options to reduce cost: dental school clinics (30–50% discount), dental discount plans (20–40% off), FSA/HSA pre-tax savings (22–37%), and 0% in-house financing from many orthodontists.
How much do braces cost with insurance?
Dental insurance typically covers 50% of orthodontic costs up to a lifetime maximum of $1,000–$2,500. For a $5,500 treatment with a $1,500 max, you'd pay about $4,000 out of pocket. Most plans cover dependents under 18 only. FSA/HSA funds can cover the remaining balance with pre-tax dollars.
Is Invisalign more expensive than metal braces?
Clear aligners (Invisalign) typically cost $3,500–$8,000 for comprehensive treatment vs. $3,000–$7,500 for metal braces. The price gap has narrowed significantly. For mild-to-moderate cases, total costs are often comparable. For complex cases, metal braces may be more effective and affordable.
How much are braces per month?
Monthly payments depend on total cost, down payment, and financing terms. For a $5,500 treatment with $500 down and 0% financing over 24 months, expect about $208/month. Many orthodontists offer in-house 0% payment plans. Third-party financing (CareCredit) offers 12–24 month promotional periods.
How long do you have to wear braces?
Treatment duration varies by case: mild crowding 12–18 months, moderate treatment 18–24 months, comprehensive treatment 24–36 months. At-home aligners for mild cases: 4–8 months. Adult treatment may take slightly longer due to denser bone structure. Only an orthodontist can provide an accurate timeline.
Does Medicaid cover braces?
Medicaid covers orthodontics for children when medically necessary under the EPSDT framework. Coverage criteria and approval processes vary by state. Adult orthodontic coverage under Medicaid varies significantly by state. Check your state's Medicaid dental program for current eligibility and coverage rules.
What age is best for braces?
The AAO recommends an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Most treatment starts between ages 9–14 when the jaw is developing and adult teeth are mostly erupted. Adults can get braces at any age with excellent results — about 27% of orthodontic patients are adults. Cost is similar for adults and teens.
Are retainers included in braces cost?
Many orthodontists include initial retainers in the treatment fee, but not all. Always ask. Retainer costs if billed separately: Hawley $150–$300/arch, clear $100–$250/arch, bonded $250–$500. Replacement retainers are typically not included and cost $100–$300 each.
How do I compare orthodontist quotes?
Compare total cost (not just monthly payment), what's included (retainers, X-rays, adjustments, emergency visits), financing terms and APR, treatment approach and experience, and what happens if treatment takes longer. Get 2–3 consultations. CostPrism's quote comparison tool can help normalize different fee structures.
Can I use FSA or HSA for braces?
Yes. Orthodontic treatment qualifies for FSA and HSA reimbursement. FSA: access up to $3,200 on day one of the plan year. HSA: no use-it-or-lose-it rule. Using pre-tax dollars effectively saves 22–37% depending on your tax bracket and state.
What is the cheapest way to straighten teeth?
At-home clear aligners ($1,500–$3,500) are the most affordable but only for mild cases. Metal braces ($3,000–$7,500) are the most affordable in-office option for all case complexities. Dental school clinics offer 30–50% discounts. Dental discount plans and FSA/HSA funds further reduce costs.
Data Sources & Methodology
CostPrism provides general educational cost estimates, not medical advice. Treatment type, duration and clinical suitability must be determined by a qualified dental/orthodontic professional.
CostPrism provides general educational cost estimates, not medical advice. Treatment type, duration and clinical suitability must be determined by a qualified dental/orthodontic professional. Insurance estimates are illustrative. Your plan documents and insurer determine actual eligibility and benefits.