How much do braces cost in California for adults?
Asked by: Jacquelyn Green | Last update: November 1, 2025Score: 4.8/5 (6 votes)
Does medical cover braces for adults in California?
Medi-Cal typically does not cover adult braces unless they are deemed medically necessary for specific orthodontic conditions. Coverage is primarily available for patients under 21, so adults may need to explore other insurance options or payment plans.
Do braces take longer for adults?
As many people suspect, adult orthodontic treatment can take slightly longer for adults than teenagers and children. Faster results are possible when we treat children because their jaws are still growing and teeth are still moving so they are easier to shift into the desired place.
How much are braces in California for adults?
The cost of metal braces run between $3,000 to $ 7,500; ceramic braces run between $3,500 to $8,000.
How do adults qualify for braces?
Some dental insurance policies cover braces for adults, and some do not. Many insurance policies have an age limit on coverage, typically around age 19. If you are interested in getting braces as an adult, it is essential to check with your dental insurance provider to see what kind of coverage you have for braces.
How Much Do Braces Cost
How much is a full set of braces?
Traditional metal braces: The classic choice
Prices typically range from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the complexity of your dental needs, treatment length, and the clinic's location. Most journeys with metal braces span 18-24 months, though more severe cases might take up to three years.
When is it too late for braces?
But teeth continue to shift as we age, so there's never a time when braces won't work. Braces adjust teeth by putting pressure on them, and this pressure works even after bones have stopped growing. It takes longer to straighten teeth in adults because bones are more solid. Still, braces are effective at any age.
Does my dental insurance cover braces?
Braces are typically covered by dental insurance, but there can be exceptions. In some cases, medical insurance might cover braces if they are deemed medically necessary. This means braces are needed to correct a problem that affects your overall health, not just the appearance of your teeth.
How painful are braces for adults?
Most people experience some pain for a few days when they first get braces and after brace tightening. However, others may experience only mild discomfort that goes away within a few hours.
How do adults pay for braces?
How can you pay for braces? If you haven't budgeted or saved for braces, there are a number of ways to pay, including payment plans and loans. Payment plans: Some orthodontists offer payment plans that allow you to pay off the cost in regular installments.
Is Invisalign cheaper than braces?
The cost to get Invisalign is comparable to braces. Braces run an average of $1,800 to $5,500. Invisalign averages between $3,000 to $5,000. However, remember that only your orthodontist will be able to determine what the cost of treatment will be.
How to get free veneers?
- Research dental schools in your area. They often offer free or discounted dental treatments, including veneers.
- Visit dental charity organizations. ...
- Consider participating in dental research studies. ...
- Check if your insurance covers veneers. ...
- Ask your dentist for payment plan options.
What to do if you need braces but can't afford them?
Discussing payment plan options with your orthodontist's office can provide a manageable way to afford treatment without a significant upfront cost. Finally, several organizations offer grants and charitable programs to assist individuals who need orthodontic treatment but cannot afford it.
Is 40 too old for braces?
As long as you're healthy, there's no age limit for braces
If you're concerned, you should consult with an orthodontist. Whether you're a good candidate for braces depends on the amount of bone that's left holding your teeth.
How will my face look after braces?
In cases where braces correct an underbite, patients often notice a slimmer jawline and more defined facial shape. Realigning the lower jaw or distributing teeth more evenly can result in a slimmer chin or even enhance the V-line of the face.
Why are braces not covered for adults?
For adults, insurance policies are more restrictive. While some plans offer braces coverage for adults, this is less common and often comes with limitations. Medical Necessity: Coverage is usually available if braces are needed to address serious alignment or bite issues that affect oral health.
How long does it take for medical to approve braces?
After the records have been submitted to Medi-Cal, it may take up to 1-6 months to receive an authorization or denial of treatment. If your child's case has been reviewed by Medi-cal and approved, we will call you to schedule him/her for placement of the braces (or other appliances).
What age can you get braces for free?
The eligibility criteria differ from state to state. Some states offer coverage for children up to 21 years old, while others only cover up to 18 years old. Remember, “Free braces for kids with Medicaid or CHIP” is a key phrase to remember when researching this topic.
At what age do adults start losing teeth?
So, the average 21 year old American starts their adult life with 28 teeth but by the time they reach 44 years old, 69% have lost at least one tooth, by the age of 50 they have lost 12 teeth (including wisdom teeth) and by age 74, 26% have lost all of their teeth.
What is the alternative for braces?
Currently, the most popular alternative to braces is clear aligners, with Invisalign being the leading brand. Invisalign consists of removable, transparent trays that gradually shift your teeth into place. They're almost invisible, making them an excellent choice for those who want something less noticeable.
What is the cheapest option for braces?
Traditional metal braces (the most affordable)
As a result, metal braces are a great option for correcting severe teeth and jaw misalignments. This includes but is not limited to overcrowding, crooked teeth, teeth gaps, protruding teeth, underbites, overbites, and crossbites.
Why is getting braces so expensive?
The material costs of braces is expensive
Clear braces cost more to fabricate than metal braces because the material is harder to obtain, and the process is more labor-intensive. Whenever a product costs more to make, the cost is passed on to the consumer, in this case, the patient.
How much do braces cost in Mexico?
The cost of braces in Tijuana is around $2,000 – $4,500. In comparison, the price for the same in the US is $5,500 to $9,000. Costs vary from case to case, but you can save up to 65%. Getting braces in Tijuana can involve multiple appointments (8 – 36 visits ) depending on the complexity of the case.