Evaluating the Cost of Braces
Getting braces can greatly improve crooked teeth and misaligned bites. But the cost can be a major barrier for many people considering orthodontic treatments. Thankfully, there are more affordable options available than ever for those looking for the cheapest braces near them.
Average Braces Costs
A typical set of basic metal braces in the United States ranges between $3,000 - $7,000 depending on your location and orthodontist fees. More complex cases with severe malocclusions or combined jaw surgery can exceed $10,000.
This standard fixed multi-brace treatment usually takes 2-3 years from start to finish as well. All these factors make traditional braces quite an intensive investment in time and money.
What Impacts Braces Costs?
Some key variables that influence the total fees for braces include:
- How complex your particular case is
- If extra treatments like palate expanders are required
- How long your treatment plan duration is
- If you want cosmetic upgrades like colored bands
- Where you live and orthodontist rates in your area
Those with milder issues may qualify for shorter, more affordable braces plans. Severe cases take longer in braces and accrue higher total fees over time.
Discovering More Affordable Braces Options
Luckily in recent years, more low-cost braces alternatives have come to market. These help make teeth straightening more accessible and can reduce the total investment substantially compared to conventional braces.
DIY Aligners
One of the most revolutionary budget-friendly methods for achieving a perfect smile are at-home clear aligner therapy systems. Popular options like SmileDirectClub or Byte cost only $1,895 - $2,995 on average.
Instead of tightened wires, these systems use a series of smooth plastic aligner trays to incrementally shift teeth over months of use. You can administer treatment all on your own and skip orthodontist office visits to save significantly.
Dental Schools
Many university dental schools have graduate orthodontic clinics where student providers offer care under faculty supervision at highly reduced rates. Average savings at these dental schools range from 30%-50%.
The student dentists get valuable experience, while patients save money on treatments. The tradeoff is longer appointments and overall lengthier treatment plans.
Braces Payment Plans
More orthodontists now offer monthly payment plans to split up the total cost of braces over the entire course of treatment. Typically a 20%-40% down payment is required, with the balance divided over 12-36 months of financing.
While interest fees may apply, this makes costs more manageable month-to-month instead of a single major lump sum.
Dental Tourism for Braces
Some patients travel internationally to save substantially on major dental procedures, including orthodontics. Countries like Mexico, Costa Rica, Thailand and others have very affordable braces often costing 50%-75% less including travel expenses.
You combine a nice vacation abroad with huge overall savings - just be sure to vet providers carefully beforehand.
Top Companies Providing Cheapest Braces
Now that you know about more economical routes for getting braces or clear aligners, which companies offer the best options in these areas? Below we review where to find the cheapest plans.
SmileDirectClub
One innovator in affordable clear aligners for achieving a perfect smile is SmileDirectClub. Their average cost runs only $1,895 for a full treatment, up to 60% less than in-office braces.
You start by taking oral photos and impressions using their at-home impression kit. Next, a licensed local orthodontist reviews your case to approve or refine the custom treatment plan. Aligners are discreetly shipped to your door every 2-3 weeks.
With their "Smile Guarantee" you get a full refund if not totally satisfied. Flexible budget payment plans are also available.
Byte
Byte stands out by combining clear aligners with their exclusive brightbyte LED teeth whitening technology. For just $1,895 you not only straighten your smile but also brighten and remove stains.
Like SmileDirectClub, everything is handled remotely in the comfort of your home. Byte even offers hyperbyte, high frequency vibration devices to accelerate alignment and cut treatment length by up to 50%-75%.
They have various payment plans and insurance coverage options as added benefits towards cheaper access to straighter, whiter teeth.
InBrace
The InBrace system strives to make braces even more affordable and convenient through their technology enhanced at-home clear aligner process. The average total is only $1,399.
You get custom treatment planning plus regular guidance from a U.S. licensed orthodontist throughout. With frequent payment plans costing as low as $59 a month, InBrace makes achieving the perfect smile accessible for almost any budget.
Uniform Teeth
Offering complete orthodontic care for just $1,895, Uniform Teeth focuses on bringing costs way down while providing quality aligners. U.S. board certified orthodontists oversee each treatment plan for effectiveness and safety.
Every custom aligner set works for 1-2 weeks incrementally progressing your teeth towards better positioning. Free teeth whitening and retainers help you maintain your newly straightened smile over the long-run.
Achieving the Perfect Smile on a Budget
While traditional braces can have very high upfront expenses ranging into the multi-thousands, more affordable at-home clear aligner systems now exist for those wanting to save money. Options like SmileDirectClub, Byte and Uniform Teeth allow you to bypass orthodontist office visits and handle teeth straightening all on your own.
Pairing these treatment plans with financing options, dental school care, and dental tourism provide additional ways to reduce costs substantially while still getting your perfect smile. So consult some of these money saving resources and find the cheapest quality braces available near you.
FAQs
Are braces payment plans worth it?
Yes, braces payment plans allow you to spread the total treatment cost over monthly installments which helps ease the high upfront expenses. While fees may apply, it makes braces more affordable instead of paying one huge lump sum.
Can I get cheap braces as an adult?
As an adult, some good options for cheap braces include at-home clear aligners which cost 50%-60% less than traditional braces, utilizing dental schools with discounted rates, going abroad for budget dental tourism packages, or applying for credit to finance braces fees over time.
Which is more affordable, braces or Invisalign?
Braces tend to have lower upfront costs for standard metal wires treatments. However, clear aligner systems like Invisalign now offer more budget-friendly at-home options starting at around $1,895. This makes aligners cheaper than traditional braces over the full course of treatment.
Can I use insurance to cover clear aligner treatment?
Some dental insurance plans now include limited orthodontic coverage that can be applied towards clear aligner treatment costs. Companies like SmileDirectClub also provide aligner discount plans and financing, which allows utilizing insurance alongside monthly payments for more affordable smiles.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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