Key Points

  • The cost of orthodontic treatment varies widely, depending on the type of treatment and the treatment time.
  • Invisalign is often the least expensive path, starting at roughly $3,000 and ranging up to $7,500 or more, depending on treatment timelines.
  • Traditional or ceramic braces are slightly more expensive but are the most common as they’re more comprehensive and can treat more complex orthodontic issues.
  • Hybrid treatment blends both Invisalign and traditional braces and requires custom pricing.
  • The only way to know the actual cost is to schedule a free consultation and learn more about the best treatment plan to design a smile you love.

Pricing for orthodontic care varies, depending on the type of treatment needed, the complexity of the treatment plan, and other oral health considerations. The best way to determine actual costs for a specific patient is to schedule a free consultation. At Kunik Orthodontics, we ensure every treatment path is made as affordable as possible with flexible payment plans and a positive, stress-free experience.

Orthodontist Prices: How Much Does Treatment Cost?

Misunderstanding the cost of orthodontic care often keeps people from designing a smile they love. Flexible payment plans and affordable solutions greatly reduce the cost and keep orthodontist prices as low as possible, but let’s break down the average cost of treatments such as braces based on several factors, including:

  • Type of braces: Patients can choose ceramic braces, clear braces, clear aligners,  or traditional metal braces based on their treatment needs. Each type of braces treatment will vary in total cost. Clear aligners are often less expensive but are not appropriate for every patient.
  • Treatment timeline: Some treatment options are completed as quickly as 3-6 months, while others are 1-2 years or more. The timeline will also drive orthodontic treatment costs, with longer timelines requiring more visits and materials.
  • Complexity of treatment plan: The aspect of treatment that drives treatment time is how complex the orthodontic issues are. To ensure every patient gets a beautiful smile they love, treatment duration needs to match individual needs.
  • Dental insurance plans: Many dental insurance plans don’t cover orthodontic care, but some do. Others offer reimbursement options to help cover some of the costs.
  • HSA/FSA funds: These are pre-tax funds set aside for specific purposes, like orthodontic treatment, health care, and dental work.
  • Oral health considerations: If there is gum disease, tooth decay, or other oral health issues, patients may require additional dental work before beginning braces treatment. This will add to overall costs and extend the treatment time.
  • Retainers: Some braces treatment plans require patients to wear retainers during treatment or after braces are removed. Retainers add some cost to treatment plans, and, in some cases, patients may want to purchase a backup retainer as well.

Orthodontic Prices Breakdown

Orthodontic Prices Breakdown

Based on all the factors and treatment needs listed above, getting braces could cost anywhere from $3,000 – $10,000.[1] The only way to know what it will cost you is with a free initial consultation. At Kunik Orthodontics, we strive to decrease patient costs and offer flexible monthly payment options to ensure everyone gets the healthy, beautiful smile they deserve.

All of our treatment plans are based on a timeline, the shorter the treatment, the lower the cost. For more complex orthodontic issues, timelines are extended, and costs go up.

Understanding Each Type of Treatment Based On Cost

Cost of Clear Aligners / Invisalign

Invisalign braces are clear aligners that fit like a tray and require no brackets. This is an unobtrusive system that’s barely visible to most people and is appropriate for mild to moderate orthodontic issues.

Clear aligner treatment often works quickly, with treatment plans starting at 3 to 6 months, sometimes longer. Invisalign fees are more affordable, starting at roughly $3,000 and ranging to $7,500, depending on timeline. However, this path may not work for all patients.

Cost of Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment. They’re highly effective, durable, and offer a fully comprehensive solution. Metal brackets are attached to the front of every tooth and are connected by an archwire. Traditional braces aren’t particularly subtle and they gradually move teeth into their natural positions for a beautiful, straight smile.

This type of braces treatment runs in the middle in terms of cost, with the average cost starting at roughly $4,000 and ranging to $9,500, depending on timeline and additional costs. This treatment takes longer to complete than clear aligners, and costs will be higher than standard Invisalign fees.

Clear Braces / Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces work similarly to traditional metal braces, but they’re more subtle in appearance. Ceramic brackets are white or clear and don’t stand out as much when you smile. These brackets are less durable but still highly effective. The cost for ceramic braces is slightly higher than conventional braces but falls within the same range.

Hybrid Treatment Plan (Invisalign and Braces)

Hybrid orthodontic treatment blends both traditional braces and Invisalign treatment together. At Kunik Orthodontics, our patients can start with one type of treatment and seamlessly transition into another based on individual needs, progress, and sustainability. The cost of hybrid treatment is customized and must be evaluated at an initial consultation.

Get a Free Consultation to Determine Prices For Your Treatment Plan

Don’t let a lack of clarity about the cost of orthodontic treatment keep you from the beautiful, straighter smile of your dreams. Schedule a free consultation and learn what type of treatment is best for your needs. We’ll break down the cost of treatment, discuss what your insurance provider covers (if relevant), and help you set up flexible payment options to ensure treatment is as affordable as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding orthodontist prices

Is $6000 too much for braces?

The answer depends on what type of treatment you need. If treatment can be completed in 3 to 6 months, this estimate may be a bit high. Much of the online information can be misleading. Don’t guess when it comes to costs. Schedule a free consultation and find out exactly what it would cost for you.

Does it cost money to see an orthodontist?

Initial consultations at Kunik Orthodontics are free. The purpose is to get a clear picture of what kind of braces and type of treatment best suit your needs and determine overall costs.

How Much Will Dental Insurance Cover?

Most insurance carriers don’t cover orthodontics, but some do. Insurance carriers will need to know what treatment is needed in order to determine coverage, if it’s offered at all.

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