When considering orthodontic treatment, one of the first questions that often comes to mind is, “How much does orthodontic treatment cost?” The cost of braces or aligners can vary based on several factors, especially in areas like Sacramento, Rancho Cordova, Carmichael, Fair Oaks and Granite Bay, CA. Whether you’re exploring traditional braces, clear aligners, or other treatment options, understanding the investment involved is crucial for making an informed decision about your smile. Our team at American River Orthodontics is here to guide you through your options while ensuring you receive top-tier care at a price that works for you.
If you’re considering getting teeth-straightening braces for yourself or your child, 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 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. For a more detailed breakdown of the factors that affect the cost of braces, you can check out our blog post, How Much Do Braces Cost?, where we dive deeper into what you can expect when budgeting for your orthodontic treatment.
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.
LightForce Braces
If you’re curious about newer treatment options, LightForce braces offer a cutting-edge approach to orthodontic care. When comparing LightForce braces’ cost to traditional metal braces, many patients appreciate the custom, 3D-printed design of LightForce braces, which can provide more precision and comfort. Although LightForce braces price might be slightly higher than standard options, the personalized treatment often results in shorter treatment times. When considering LightForce braces vs metal braces cost, it’s important to weigh the long-term benefits and overall experience with each option.
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.
Orthodontic Insurance
If you have dental insurance 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. Most dental insurances have an option to add on orthodontic insurance coverage to your typical dental plan. So you can plan ahead to determine the best time to add this option.
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 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.
Before making any decisions about your orthodontic care, it’s helpful to understand the factors that influence the orthodontic treatment price. The average cost of braces can vary depending on the complexity of your case, the type of braces you choose, and how long you’ll need treatment. At American River Orthodontics, we strive to offer transparent pricing and flexible payment options to make achieving your dream smile more accessible.
