Cost of Braces: A Complete Guide to Prices, Monthly Payments, and Affordable Options

Understanding the cost of braces is one of the most important steps when planning orthodontic treatment. Whether you’re a parent considering braces for your child or an adult finally ready to invest in your smile, knowing what affects pricing can help you make a confident, informed decision.

The cost of braces in the United States varies widely depending on the type of braces, length of treatment, age of the patient, and whether insurance is involved. In this guide, we’ll break down the average cost of braces, explain monthly payment options, compare braces for adults and kids, and show you how to make treatment affordable even without insurance.

What Is the Cost of Braces in the U.S.?

The cost of braces typically ranges between $3,000 and $7,500 in the United States. However, this is not a fixed number. Your final braces cost depends on several clinical and financial factors.

Factors That Affect Braces Cost

• Type of braces (metal, ceramic, lingual, clear aligners)

• Severity of misalignment

• Length of treatment

• Age (kids vs adults)

• Orthodontist’s expertise and location

• Insurance coverage or lack thereof

A personalized orthodontic consultation is the only way to get an exact price, but national averages provide a helpful starting point.

Average Cost of Braces: What Most Patients Pay

The average cost of braces for most patients in the U.S. falls between $4,500 and $6,000 for comprehensive treatment.

Average Cost by Braces Type

Type of Braces	Average Cost Range
Metal braces	$3,000 – $5,500
Ceramic braces	$4,000 – $6,500
Lingual braces	$8,000 – $10,000
Clear aligners	$3,500 – $7,000

Each option offers different aesthetic and functional benefits, which directly influence the braces cost.

Braces Cost Of Different Treatment Levels

The braces cost of treatment also depends on how complex your orthodontic needs are.

Treatment Complexity Levels

• Mild spacing or crowding: Lower overall cost

• Moderate bite issues: Average cost range

• Severe bite correction: Higher cost due to longer treatment

More complex cases often require additional appointments, appliances, or refinements raising the total cost of braces.

Average Cost of Braces Per Month: Payment Breakdown

One of the most common questions patients ask is about the average cost of braces per month.

Typical Monthly Payment Range

Most orthodontic clinics offer flexible payment plans:

• $100 – $250 per month

• Small down payment required

• Interest-free options available in many clinics

For example, a $5,000 treatment spread over 24 months equals about $208 per month, making braces accessible for many families.

Cost of Braces for Adults: Is It More Expensive?

The cost of braces for adults is usually slightly higher than for children, mainly because adult orthodontic cases can be more complex.

Why Adult Braces Cost More

• Fully developed jawbones

• Previous dental work (crowns, implants)

• Aesthetic preferences (ceramic or lingual braces)

• Longer treatment duration in some cases

Despite the higher cost, adult braces deliver life-changing results—improved confidence, oral health, and bite function.

Learn more about adult treatment

Cost of Braces for Kids: What Parents Should Expect

The cost of braces for kids is often lower than adult treatment because orthodontic issues are easier to correct while the jaw is still growing.

Average Cost for Children

• Typically $3,000 – $5,000

• Often shorter treatment time

• Early intervention may reduce future costs

Many orthodontists recommend an evaluation by age 7 to identify issues early and lower the total cost of braces.

Explore pediatric orthodontic care here.

Cost of Braces Without Insurance: Paying Out of Pocket

If you’re uninsured, don’t worry. The cost of braces without insurance is still manageable with the right planning.

Ways to Reduce Out-of-Pocket Costs

• In-house payment plans

• Discounts for full upfront payment

• Flexible financing

• Family or sibling discounts

Many top orthodontic clinics design payment options specifically for patients without dental insurance.

Insurance Coverage and the Cost of Braces

Dental insurance can significantly lower the average cost of braces.

Typical Insurance Benefits

• Coverage up to $1,000 – $2,500

• Lifetime orthodontic maximum

• Often applies to kids, sometimes adults

Always verify your benefits before starting treatment to understand how much of your braces cost is covered.

Comparing Braces Options by Cost and Benefits

Braces Cost Comparison Table

Feature	Metal	Ceramic	Lingual	Clear Aligners
Visibility	High	Medium	Hidden	Nearly invisible
Comfort	High	High	Medium	Very high
Cost	Lowest	Medium	Highest	Medium-High
Best for	Kids & teens	Adults	Aesthetic needs	Mild–moderate cases

Are Braces Worth the Cost?

While the cost of braces may seem high, the long-term benefits far outweigh the investment.

Benefits Beyond a Straight Smile

• Improved bite and chewing

• Better oral hygiene

• Reduced risk of tooth wear

• Increased confidence

• Long-term dental savings

Orthodontic treatment is not cosmetic—it’s preventive healthcare.

How to Get the Best Value for Your Braces Cost

Actionable Tips

• Schedule an early consultation

• Ask about all-inclusive pricing

• Compare treatment options

• Choose experience over cheap pricing

• Confirm retainers are included

Selecting a skilled orthodontist ensures you get the best results for your braces cost.

Book Your Orthodontic Consultation Today

Your perfect smile is closer than you think. Don’t let uncertainty about cost hold you back any longer.

CALL US: 732-398-1900 and our location is 3176 Route 27, Suite 1B, Kendall Park, NJ 08824

Our expert orthodontic team will create a custom treatment plan, explain your exact braces cost, and offer flexible payment options designed around you.

Schedule your appointment now

Your smile deserves expert care—start today.