Adults now make up about 32% of orthodontic patients in North America. Some are receiving first-time braces and orthodontic treatments. Others had braces as kids but have since seen new orthodontic problems arise.
Whether it’s your first time getting braces or your second, you probably have questions about getting braces as adults. A big question we hear often is, “How much do braces cost for adults without insurance?”
No matter your reason for wanting adult braces, we understand that cost can be a major hurdle. Read on for our complete guide to the price of braces for adults who don’t have insurance.
Why Are More Adults Getting Braces?
You may have grown up thinking that braces were only for adolescents and teens. Now, you’re thinking about getting orthodontic treatment, but you’re not sure if you really need it. Let’s take a look at some of the most common reasons that adults decide to get braces.
Addressing Pain and Discomfort
When you have misalignments, it can cause pain and discomfort when you’re:
- Talking
- Chewing
- Brushing your teeth
Braces can correct most misalignments by shifting crooked or overcrowded teeth into their proper positions. This can provide long-lasting relief and reduce your reliance on things like mild painkillers.
Increasing Confidence
Everyone deserves to have a smile they love, regardless of their age. If you find yourself covering your smile because you don’t like the way your teeth look, it’s time to consider orthodontic treatment. Braces can correct everything from gaps to overbites to high cuspids.
Providing Long-Term Dental Protection
Proper tooth alignment doesn’t just reduce discomfort and increase confidence. It can also improve your overall oral health by making it easier to brush and floss. When your teeth don’t overlap, it’s easier to remove plaque and prevent long-term issues like gingivitis and gum disease.
How Much Do Braces Cost for Adults Without Insurance?
According to Consumer Affairs, the average price range of adult braces is $1,000 to $13,000. Why is this range so large and where will the cost of your braces land?
Several different factors impact the price of braces without insurance, from the level of correction you need to the type of braces you get. The latter tends to make the biggest impact, so let’s take a closer look at the price breakdown of braces by type.
Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most traditional option and they’re most likely what comes to mind first. Metal braces pull your teeth into place using a combination of brackets, archways, and small rubber bands. Standard treatments take about one to two years, although there are outliers on both ends.
Metal braces tend to cost anywhere between $5,000 and $6,000. They’re not the most discrete option, but they are still popular with adolescents and adults.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are a newer option that some adults opt for because they use clear or tooth-colored brackets, rather than metal brackets. This can make them a bit more discrete, although the metal archwires aren’t any less visible. They tend to work a little slower than metal braces.
Ceramic braces may cost between $4,000 and $9,000. One reason for this increased cost is that ceramic brackets may break and need replacing.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are another newer option in the world of orthodontia. They work a lot like traditional metal braces, but they go on the backside of your teeth. As you can imagine, this can present some problems with chewing, speech patterns, and tongue discomfort, but it is one of the more discrete choices.
On the low end, lingual braces cost as little as $5,000. On the high end, they cost as much as $13,000. You may find the potential high cost worth it if you play impact sports but otherwise, you may want to stick with traditional braces or aligners.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are traditional braces’ biggest contender. Invisalign is one of the most popular clear aligner brands, although others exist. Most people can complete their orthodontic treatment with about 20 to 30 aligners, each one typically worn for about one to two weeks.
You may not qualify for clear aligners if you need significant orthodontic treatment. If you’re looking for minor to moderate treatment, you may find clear aligners a great alternative. They tend to cost between $1,000 and $5,000 from start to finish.
Should You Get Insurance Before You See an Orthodontist?
You still want to talk to an orthodontist about braces but you’re worried about the cost. Should you try to enroll in a dental health insurance plan before you see an orthodontist?
The reality is that even with dental insurance, you may not get any coverage for braces and other similar orthodontic treatments as an adult. However, most orthodontists understand that paying several thousand dollars upfront isn’t an option for many patients. Consider talking to your orthodontist about any payment plans they can offer so you can pay for your braces over time.
When Will Insurance Cover Adult Braces?
Dental insurance may cover adult braces if the procedure is considered medically necessary. Keep in mind that insurance companies have their own definition of medical necessity. We may believe that braces will have a significant positive impact on your health, but your insurance company may not agree.
For example, some insurance plans will offer at least partial coverage if braces will improve your TMJ symptoms. Others may offer partial coverage if braces will improve sleep apnea symptoms. Some policies won’t provide coverage for anyone over 18 no matter the reason.
Call Rivoli Orthodontics for Monroe County Braces
How much do braces cost for adults without insurance? Most patients can expect to pay between $5,000 and $6,000, although outliers do exist. Even with insurance, most adults will find that they need to cover all or most of the cost of braces out of pocket.
Talking with an orthodontist is the best way to learn more about the kind of treatment you need and how much it may cost. Rivoli Orthodontics prioritizes comfort and a friendly atmosphere for kids, teens, and adults in Monroe County. Learn more about our practice and our locations and contact us to schedule a consultation.
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