Every single person on the planet has a unique smile, which means for those who want to straighten their teeth, the cost of treatment will be notably different compared to others. If you’re thinking about getting braces for yourself or your child, only your orthodontist can give you a fully accurate cost estimate. But, there are a few factors that can make orthodontic treatment more or less expensive, and below, you can learn about 4 of the most important ones.
1. The Type of Braces
While there might have only been one kind of braces when you were growing up, that is no longer the case! In addition to traditional metal bracket and wire braces, many orthodontists now offer clear/ceramic braces, self-ligating braces, and more. These options each come with their own cost and may be slightly more than regular braces based on the unique benefits they provide, like better esthetics or faster teeth movement.
2. The Skill of the Dentist
Just like in every other profession, not all dentists are created equal! When it comes to orthodontics, you will likely pay more when getting treatment from a board-certified orthodontist versus a general dentist who is just out of school. This extra expense is certainly worth it, as going with a more experienced and properly trained doctor will guarantee the success of treatment, give you access to more care options, and ensure a comfortable experience.
3. Complexity of Care/Length of Treatment
It costs less to address minor teeth and bite problems as opposed to advanced ones, as more complicated problems require a longer, more complex treatment. When you see your orthodontist for your initial consultation, they will be able to give you an estimate of how long treatment will take and discuss how this influences the price.
4. Dental Insurance/Financing
Most dental insurance plans offer coverage for braces, especially for patients aged 18 and under. The amount of this coverage can vary from plan to plan, of course. Also, many orthodontic practices offer in-house financing, some with 0% interest, which can greatly affect the final cost as well. Some offices may also provide a discount based on the method of payment.
While orthodontic care can certainly be quite the financial investment, it’s often much more affordable than people realize. Plus, the cost of getting treatment now is typically much less compared to waiting and allowing any issues to become worse. With the right orthodontist and practice at your side, you can trust that the team will take great care of your smile and wallet.
About the Author
Dr. Jeffrey Shirck is a board-certified orthodontist that believes affordability is just as important as the quality of his care. That’s why Shirck Orthodontics is in-network with several dental insurance plans and offers 0% in-house financing among their flexible payment options. To learn more about the cost of orthodontic treatment for yourself or your child, you’re invited to schedule a FREE in-person consultation by clicking here.