How to Pay for Braces and What They Cost

If you’re told that it’s time for braces, it wouldn’t be surprising if your first thought is: “How much are braces going to cost?” Orthodontic treatments are custom-designed for each patient, so there is a wide range of possibilities. Your second thought is likely to be: “How can I pay for them?”

How much do braces cost?
3 ways to lower the cost of braces
Does dental insurance pay for braces?
How can you pay for braces?
Which payment option is best for you?

How much do braces cost?

The price of braces depends on many factors, including the type of braces you choose and the extent of treatment needed. These are some of the different treatment types and cost ranges.¹

Standard metal braces: This more traditional type of braces features metal brackets and wires that attach to the front of the teeth. They get tightened over time and may use rubber bands to help move the teeth. Costs can average from $5,000 to $6,000.
Self-ligating braces: Like standard metal braces, self-ligating braces use wires, but they have a built-in system to adjust teeth and can be easier to clean. Costs can range from $3,000 to $7,000.
Ceramic braces: A less-visible option, these use tooth-colored or clear brackets that are adhered to the front of the teeth. They can be a bit pricier, though, costing from $4,000 to $8,500.
Lingual braces: Because they attach to the back side of the teeth, these braces may be a good choice if you want an unobtrusive option for personal or work-related reasons. Costs range from $5,000 to $13,000.
Headgear braces: While not commonly used these days, headgear along with braces may be advised in certain situations. Costs may start at $1,000 but go up to $9,000.
Clear aligners: These are nearly invisible, and they areremovable. But they can take longer to show results. Prices vary by brand, ranging from $1,000 up to $8,500, depending on your treatment needs.

3 ways to lower the cost of braces

If you’re looking to reduce the impact of braces on your wallet, there are a few possibilities you might want to consider.

1. Provider discounts

Some orthodontists may offer discounts for patients who pay the entire bill up front, or they may provide in-house financing plans with monthly installments.

2. Tax-free savings accounts

A Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) through your employer might help you lower your out-of-pocket costs. Both allow you to use pre-tax dollars for some healthcare expenses. Because HSAs and FSAs have restrictions and because federal limits change annually, check with your employer or benefits administrator about your options and coverage.

3. Alternative providers

To save money, you might also be able to complete some procedures at a dental school or dental society for a discounted rate. While it may seem unusual to trust this procedure to a student, the work is generally done under the supervision of a licensed orthodontist .

Does dental insurance cover braces?

While some dental insurance may provide benefits for orthodontia, coverage varies by policy. Insurance may provide a fixed amount or partial coverage. Even partial coverage still leaves you to pay for the rest.

If you are considering braces for yourself or someone in your family, you will want to check your current policy. If orthodontia is not included, you may want to compare plans during the next open enrollment period. Coverage may require a supplemental fee. Some insurance plans require you to have been enrolled for orthodontia coverage for a period of time before the benefits kick in. Review your insurance policy carefully before making any plans.

How can you pay for braces?

If your insurance doesn’t cover the entire cost and you haven’t saved money for braces, there are several ways to pay, including braces payment plans and loans.

Orthodontist payment plans: Some orthodontists offer payment plans that allow you to pay off the cost in regular installments. Be sure to compare the interest rates of the orthodontist’s payment plans with the interest rate of your credit card or personal loan options to determine which is most advantageous.
Credit cards: You could use your credit card and pay for braces through your regular credit card payments. This might be attractive if your orthodontist offers a discounted price for paying in full. Keep in mind that if you pay with your credit card and take longer to pay off your credit card balance, higher interest rates may cancel out any discount the orthodontist offered.
Personal loan: Healthcare costs are one of many common reasons borrowers apply for a personal loan. By receiving a lump sum payment, you can take advantage of any discount offered by the orthodontist for paying up front. You may also save money on interest compared to other payment options, like a credit card. And just like you’ll know when the braces will come off, you’ll know when your loan is due to be paid in full. To choose a repayment term and find out what your monthly loan payment would be, you can use our personal loan calculator.

With a Discover® personal loan, for example, you could get a lump sum that allows you to enjoy the orthodontist’s discount for up-front payment. You’ll also have one set regular monthly payment that you can plan for. Flexible options let you find the repayment plan that fits your budget.

Which payment option is best for you?

Like the orthodontic work itself, how you pay for braces is highly personalized. It depends on your own financial circumstances and the details of your insurance coverage.

Investigate all your options closely before making any decisions. You’re sure to find an option for paying for braces that’s best for you—and that should give you plenty of reasons to smile.

Want to know more about the personal loan application process? We have a step-by-step guide to walk you through the process.

¹ https://www.consumeraffairs.com/health/average-cost-of-braces.html

How Much Do Braces Cost and How Can You Pay for Them?

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