How much does it cost for an adult to get braces?

Asked by: Trudie Sanford Jr.  |  Last update: June 15, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (26 votes)

The cost of braces for adults typically ranges from $2,000 to $7,000, depending on the extent of treatment needed. Permanent retainers, which are often recommended after braces, can cost around $500 to $1,000.

Is it cheaper to get braces as an adult?

On average, adult braces cost at least a few hundred dollars more than braces for kids. Since adult jaws are fully formed, your teeth won't move as easily, so you would need braces for a longer period of time than most kids.

How much did your adult braces cost?

The Average Cost of Braces in 2023. While the average cost of braces right now is around $6,000, the right dental insurance plan will have you paying between $1,638 and $4,933. Without dental or orthodontic insurance, you can expect to pay between $2,750 and $7,000.

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 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 Much Do Braces Cost?

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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.

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.

How to get braces paid for as an adult?

Five Ways to Pay for Braces
  1. Organize a Payment Plan. Most people don't pay for their braces in one lump payment. ...
  2. Contact Your Insurance Company. If you have health insurance, then contact your company and find out what's covered under your plan. ...
  3. Join a Dental Plan. ...
  4. Investigate Government Programs. ...
  5. Dental Charities.

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.

How can I get braces for free?

If your family has a low income, you may qualify for Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Plan (CHIP), or a state-sponsored low-income insurance program. These programs can provide free braces for your children. The eligibility criteria differ from state to state.

Is it cheaper to get braces at a dental school?

Cost of Treatment: Fees are comparable to neighboring private practices.

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 do you get braces if you don't have money?

How to Pay for Braces
  1. Choose a low-cost option. If you want affordable braces, you probably shouldn't pursue lingual brackets. ...
  2. Find a dental school clinic. ...
  3. Ask for a payment plan. ...
  4. Use your Flexible Spending Account. ...
  5. Finance your braces. ...
  6. Explore dental assistance programs.

Why are braces not covered for adults?

Many dental plans restrict orthodontic coverage to patients under the age of 19. If you do find insurance coverage for adult braces, check for limitations such as a yearly or lifetime maximum benefit. Note: Adults have denser bone tissue than children, so treatment may take a little longer.

How much is a down payment for braces without insurance?

On average, most people can expect to pay about 20% of their costs upfront, which can be between $800 and $1,500 depending on the services needed and your plan.

Can I get braces if I'm poor?

Not having insurance doesn't mean braces are out of reach. Here are a few options: Affordable dental clinics: Many clinics provide low-cost braces, offering options like payment plans that make treatment accessible even without insurance.

What is the monthly payment for braces?

Monthly, it could be anything from $80 to $650. There are two main types of braces: metal and ceramic. Metal braces are the most common type, and they are also the most affordable option. Ceramic braces are more expensive, but they are less visible than metal braces.

How long do adult braces take?

You can't rush your brand new smile! Though everyone's orthodontic needs are different, most people will need to wear braces for anywhere from 1 to three years until their teeth are moved into place. Many orthodontists will estimate anywhere from 18 months to 2 years depending on how much correction you require.

Are braces free with insurance?

Most dental insurance plans offer some coverage for braces, but the amount of coverage can vary widely. Some plans may only cover a certain percentage of the cost of treatment, while others may cover the full cost, up to a certain limit. In addition, some plans may have different coverage for children and adults.

When you can't afford braces?

Talk with your orthodontist about setting up a payment plan to help spread the cost out over a longer period of time. Other options are the use of an FSA (Flexible Spending Account) or an HSA (Health Savings Account) to help afford orthodontic procedures, such as metal braces or Invisalign.

What type of braces are best for adults?

For adults, clear aligners like Invisalign are a popular choice due to their discreet appearance and convenience. Lingual braces, placed behind the teeth, offer a hidden option. Traditional metal braces are effective for complex cases.

Why are 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.

Will my insurance cover braces again?

Does Insurance Cover Braces a Second Time? There's no one-size-fits-all answer regarding insurance coverage for a second round of braces. Most dental insurance plans have a lifetime maximum for orthodontic treatment. If you've already hit that max with your first round of braces, you might be out of luck for round two.

Is Invisalign cheaper than braces?

Invisalign is more expensive than traditional braces due to the customized aligners and shorter treatment time. For a more affordable option, you can also ask your Invisalign dentist about third-party financing options and monthly payment plans to pay for either type of orthodontic care.