The Cost of Orthodontic Treatment
Closeup of teen girl wearing braces

If you’re considering getting teeth-straightening braces for yourself or your child near Granite Bay, CA, Dr. Michael Payne of American River Orthodontics has explained here the monetary and medical value of orthodontic treatments with braces.

In 1980, the average cost of orthodontic treatment was around $2,000, or about $5,700 today after inflation. Today, the average cost of traditional metal braces ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on your insurance plan, choice of orthodontist, and treatment time.

Variations of Braces

Although metal braces have been the #1 choice for treatment over the years, there are now even more options to choose from. Invisalign, ceramic braces, and lingual braces are all available to today’s patients. These options vary in cost due to the process of fitting and installing the appliance, the cost of materials, and your orthodontist’s office fees. Many of  Dr. Payne’s patients near Granite Bay, CA choose these alternative options because the span of treatment may be shorter or because they don’t want the “train track” look.

  • Metal Braces
    As discussed before, the average national price of metal braces ranges from about $3,000 to $7,000. These are the traditional metal braces that are most commonly used, and they are the most easily recognizable. However, many patients opt-out of metal braces because they don’t like the look that comes with them.
  • Ceramic Braces
    Ceramic braces are affixed to the teeth in the same way as metal braces, and they perform the same function. However, ceramics use tooth-colored or clear brackets and wires to blend in with the teeth and reduce visibility. Ceramics, however, can sometimes be more expensive than metal brace. The average national price of ceramic braces ranges from $4,000 to $8,000 and the team at American River Orthodontics say that they can stain easily if not taken care of properly.
  • Lingual Braces
    Lingual braces, or braces that are affixed to the back of the teeth, are by far the best option if you want to keep your treatment concealed. Dr. Payne mentions that this treatment is usually the most expensive, with the national average price fluctuating from $8,000 to $10,000. *Your insurance company may not cover this method of treatment due to the cost and the cosmetic nature of the treatment.
  • Clear Aligners
    Clear aligners are a great option for adults because they’re almost invisible and you can take them out to eat whatever you need to. These are not indicated for serious dental problems, however. They also can be lost easily and are costly to replace, the treatment time may be longer, and they are only available to teens and adults, not children. The national average cost of clear aligners, such as Invisalign, lies in a range from $4,000 to $7,500.

Insurance

If you have dental or health insurance, then you should consult with your orthodontist before receiving any type of treatment. Many insurance companies won’t pay for treatment if the patient is over 18 years old, but you may receive partial coverage if under age 18.

If your health plan doesn’t cover braces, it’s always possible for you to purchase supplemental orthodontic insurance. Make sure to ask about the percentage of total costs that they cover; a common figure near Granite Bay, CA is 50% with a $1,500 lifetime maximum per child.

Making Braces More Affordable

Many orthodontists offer a payment plan to spread over time the costs of your orthodontic treatment. Dr. Payne agrees that the best way to estimate the cost of orthodontic treatment is to receive an early and initial consultation, and to create a treatment budget for the future. You also may be able to receive treatment from a dental or orthodontic school near Granite Bay, CA for a reduced price (as long as you don’t mind a student working in your mouth while a professional supervises).

Price differs depending on the individual patient and the individual orthodontist. Factors such as the amount of work needed, the treatment time, the insurance company involved, and the payment plan details all affect the final price tag of orthodontic treatments. The only way to know exactly how much your treatment is going to cost is to set up an appointment with American River Orthodontics to discuss an individual plan of treatment that works best for you.

 

Dr. Michael Payne and the team at American River Orthodontics can help any patient achieve the healthy, beautiful smile they deserve. For more information, or to plan a complimentary consultation, visit American River Orthodontics, the best orthodontists near Granite Bay, CA or call: 916-786-2442.

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