Finding Affordable Braces in Houston on Any Budget

Finding Affordable and Reputable Braces in Houston

Getting braces can be an expensive investment, with costs ranging anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 depending on your specific orthodontic needs. However, there are ways to reduce the costs through insurance, financing plans, or discounted braces options in the Houston area.

Average Cost of Braces in Houston

The average cost of traditional metal braces in Houston ranges from $4,000-$6,000. Clear ceramic braces are more expensive, averaging $5,000-$8,000. Lingual braces placed behind the teeth run $8,000-$10,000 on average.

Below are some of the standard costs for braces and orthodontic treatment in Houston:

• Metal braces - $3,000-$6,000
• Ceramic braces - $5,000-$8,000
• Lingual braces - $8,000-$10,000
• Retainers - $500-$2,000
• Repairs or replacement brackets - $50-$250 per bracket
• X-rays & records - $100-$500
• Orthodontic removal - $150-$500 if needed

Types of Braces in Houston

Common types of braces provided by Houston orthodontists include:

• Traditional metal braces
• Clear ceramic braces
• Lingual braces placed behind the teeth
• Invisalign clear aligners
• Gold-plated braces

How to Find Discounted Braces in Houston

Choose Metal over Ceramic Braces

Metal braces made of stainless steel are generally the most affordable option. While clear ceramic braces blend in more seamlessly for aesthetics, they come at a higher price.

Look Into Dental Schools

Dental students provide low cost care under licensed faculty supervision at schools like University of Texas Health Science Center or Texas A&M College of Dentistry in Dallas. Wait times are longer but total fees can be 30-60% less.

Sign Up for Orthodontic Insurance

If your medical or dental insurance plan does not cover braces, enroll in separate orthodontic insurance to reduce your out-of-pocket expense. This can save you anywhere from 10-50% off the total cost of braces depending on your plan and coverage percentage.

Use Flexible Spending Accounts

Flex plans through your employer allow you set aside pretax dollars for qualified health expenses. You can use these funds to pay for braces, retainers, repairs, dental x-rays and other orthodontic treatments tax-free.

Compare Financing Provider Options

Many orthodontists work with third party financing companies like Springstone, Capella Finance and CareCredit that offer 12-24 month interest-free loans, discounts for automating payments, no upfront down payment, etc. Read all terms and agreements carefully.

Sign up for Loyalty Programs

Some practices offer loyalty programs where patients earn points with each visit that translate into account credits you can use for braces or other treatments. Popular options include Smile Generation Rewards and My Smile Points through private dentistry offices.

Take Advantage of Free Consultations

Consultations with an orthodontist are often complimentary. Take advantage of free consults to ask questions and get quotes from multiple providers before deciding on the most reputable dentist with affordable prices for your situation.

Top-Rated Orthodontists Offering Braces in Houston

1. Antoine Dental Center

Antoine Dental Center offers all types of braces with flexible payment plans starting at $250 down and $250 per month at 0% interest. Their team of 9 knowledgeable orthodontists provide free consultations to find you an affordable treatment plan.

2. Rose Dental Group

This Baytown orthodontics practice provides traditional, clear and gold-plated braces options for children and adults. Their braces cost just $3,488 with an additional $500 off if you pay the full amount upfront. Free consultations are available.

3. Upper Kirby Orthodontics

Dr. Wicklund and his skilled associates offer transparent pricing starting at $4,000 for metal braces with loyalty discounts and easy monthly payments. Book a free iScan digital assessment to discuss affordable braces options.

4. Esprit Orthodontics

Named one of Houstons top orthodontists for 2018 and 2019, Dr. Miller and team provide quality treatment including Damon braces, Invisalign and Incognito lingual braces. Free consultations available.

Types of Discounted Houston Braces

Metal Braces

Stainless steel braces remain the most common budget-friendly option providing the basics for realigning teeth. Average treatment times fall between 18-24 months.

Ceramic Braces

Clear or tooth-colored ceramic braces blend in more discreetly for $500+ more than metal on average. They can chip or stain slightly easier than metal but remain relatively affordable.

DIY Aligners

New direct-to-consumer companies like Byte, Candid Co and Smilelove offer at-home clear aligner treatment for roughly half the cost of Invisalign when purchased in full. This constitutes more of a cosmetic adjustment.

Invisalign Teen

Invisalign braces for teens average $3,000-$7,000 compared to $5,000-$8,000 for adults. The product is the same teens generally need shorter active treatment times hence the lower price point for growing young patients.

Financing Affordable Braces in Houston

Below are a few popular orthodontic payment plans and financing options to consider:

In-Office Payment Plans

Many orthodontists structure monthly payments around 18-24 months interest-free so fees can be divided into more manageable installments. Just be sure to clarify complete costs upfront.

Credit Cards for Healthcare

Cards like CareCredit have special offers like 24 months interest-free financing and no upfront money down. However, interest rates are very high if a balance remains after the intro 0% APR period ends.

Dental Insurance

Some dental insurance plans partially cover braces for kids and teens under age 19. Log in to your provider account to check your annual orthodontia maximum.

Health Savings Account (HSA)

For those with a High Deductible Health Plan, funds from a Health Savings Account can be utilized for braces and dental treatments tax-free.

Questions to Ask Prospective Orthodontists

Before choosing an orthodontist for braces, ask the following during your free consultation:

• What is the total treatment cost with no surprises or hidden fees?
• Do you offer payment plans and financing options to make braces affordable?
• Approximately how many months will treatment take?
• How much experience do you have successfully treating cases similar to mine?
• What technology and treatment philosophies do you utilize?
• Do you provide free adjustments and repairs if needed post-treatment?

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.