One of the most common questions that orthodontists receive is how much will braces cost? There is no one quick number that can adequately answer this question because the cost can range anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000.

The cost is dependent on several factors including age, location, type of braces, how long you have to wear braces, whether insurance will help pay for it, and the amount of correction your teeth may need.

Factors Determining Cost of Braces

Type of Braces: There are several different types of braces that orthodontists can choose from when correcting teeth and jaw issues. The different types of braces include metal, ceramic, self-ligating, lingual braces, and Invisalign.
Amount of Correction/How Long You Have To Wear It: Braces will cost more if your teeth need more correction and you need to wear braces for longer. Your orthodontist will be able to give you an estimation of how long you need to wear braces. Some patients might even need phases of braces depending on the situation.
Insurance: Typically, insurance does not cover the costs of braces. However, there are some instances where they might. Before purchasing braces, check with your insurance to see if you will get some sort of help in financing the cost.

Type of Braces

There are several types of braces that an orthodontist might use when trying to correct your teeth. The type of braces will impact the cost of your overall expense. At South Salem Orthodontics we primarily use metal, ceramic and clear braces.

Metal Braces

Metal braces are the most common type of braces. Metal (traditional) braces are the most effective type of braces to be able to fix overcrowding teeth. Metal braces will need to be tightened on a regular basis, the colorful bands need to be changed, and patients will need to practice proper care techniques.

Metal braces are typically the cheapest option when choosing braces.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are made with aluminum oxide and are glued directly to the patient’s teeth. An archwire controls the movement of the teeth and the jaw. Ceramic braces can get stained easier and often can be bulkier than other braces options.

Some patients will choose a mixture of metal braces and ceramic braces. Ceramic braces are almost always more expensive than metal.

Invisalign Braces

A very popular option for braces (especially for adults and older teens) is the use of Invisalign (invisible braces). Invisalign will straighten your teeth and correct overcrowding without people even being able to notice you are wearing the corrective appliance.

Invisalign is typically a little more expensive than traditional braces but usually not as expensive as lingual braces. Check with your orthodontist because some patients are not candidates for Invisalign.

Amount of Correction/How Long You Have to Wear It

Often, people are under the impression that the orthodontist knows exactly how long they will be wearing braces. However, that is sometimes not the case. Some patients (usually young patients) have different phases of braces. They will have braces, get them removed, then get braces again at a different time.

Orthodontists also don’t have an exact time when braces are supposed to be removed. An orthodontist will give you an estimation but that is not always set in stone. S/he will continue to look at your teeth and determine when your teeth are ready to have the braces removed.

Sometimes, the cost of your braces depends on how long the orthodontist has to work with you to correct your teeth. Therefore, your braces might cost more if you have to wear them for 2 years compared to a patient who needs to wear them for one year.

Discuss With Your Orthodontist

In the end, you really won’t know the exact cost unless you discuss your needs with your orthodontist. Many orthodontists offer free consultations and they can give you a free quote. Therefore you will be able to figure out the cost of your braces and if they are the right decision for you.

If you are in Salem, Oregon and you are looking for an orthodontist to help you then call South Salem Orthodontics and we can create a specialized plan.

How Much Will Braces Cost In Oregon?