Braces
Expect to pay $3,000-$10,000 for braces at a typical dental office. Discount programs and dental schools often charge less.
Orthodontic braces straighten teeth and correct bite problems using brackets, wires, and periodic adjustments.
Sources: CDT benchmark database, state Medicaid fee schedules, and providers’ published rates. Re-verified monthly. Nothing on this page is a quote.
Typical Price Range
$3,000-$10,000
National average
FTC Pricing Disclaimer: Prices shown are estimated ranges based on ADA fee surveys, orthodontic practices, dental schools. Actual prices vary by location, dentist, and complexity. Always verify pricing before scheduling.
What's Included
- Consultation & Records
- Brackets & Wires
- Adjustment Visits
- Retainers (often separate)
Recovery Time
18-30 months total treatment
Braces FAQs
How much do braces cost without insurance?
Comprehensive adult braces cost $3,000-$10,000; treatment for children and teens runs $2,750-$9,200. Limited treatment (fixing a few teeth) costs $1,500-$5,800. Dental school orthodontic clinics often charge less, and many orthodontists offer no-interest monthly payment plans.
Does dental insurance cover braces?
Many dental plans exclude adult orthodontics entirely. Plans with orthodontic benefits typically cover 50% up to a separate lifetime maximum of $1,000-$3,000, a fraction of total cost. Medicaid covers braces for children in many states when medically necessary.
Are payment plans available for braces?
Almost all orthodontists offer in-house payment plans: a down payment of $250-$1,000, then monthly payments over the treatment period, usually interest-free. Asking for a paid-in-full discount is also common.
Where to Get Braces for Less
Dental Schools
Reduced-cost care at 65 accredited schools
Community Clinics
Sliding-scale fees at FQHCs
Compare All Prices
CDT codes, Medicaid, discount plans
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Step-by-step playbook with JAMA 2024 success rates and IRS 501(r) charity-care rules.