How Much Do Braces Cost With Insurance

Want to know How Much Do Braces Cost with Insurance? If Yes, You are at the right place.

Braces are a common orthodontic treatment that helps straighten crooked teeth, close gaps, and fix bite problems. When your teeth and jaw line up correctly, it is easier to chew, speak clearly, and keep your mouth clean. But many families worry about the cost. If you have dental insurance, you can save a lot.

In this article, we’ll explain How Much Do Braces Cost with Insurance.

Table of Contents

What Are Braces?

Braces are special dental tools that help move your teeth into the right position. If your teeth are crooked, crowded, or don’t line up properly, braces can slowly shift them until they look and work better. This helps you chew food properly, speak clearly, and keep your mouth clean. Braces can also improve how your smile looks, which can boost your confidence.

People often get braces when they are kids or teenagers because it’s easier to move teeth while the jaw is still growing. But many adults also get braces to fix long-time dental issues or to improve their smile. So, it’s never too late to get braces if you need them.

Why Are Braces Needed?

Braces are used to fix many kinds of dental problems, such as…

Crooked teeth – when your teeth are not straight.
Crowded teeth – when there isn’t enough space in your mouth and your teeth overlap or twist.
Gaps between teeth – when there is too much space between teeth.
Overbite – when your top front teeth stick out too far over your bottom teeth.
Underbite – when your lower teeth are too far forward or your upper teeth are too far back.
Crossbite or open bite – other bite problems that affect how your teeth meet when you close your mouth.

Braces gently pull your teeth into better alignment over time. Treatment usually takes anywhere from one to three years, depending on how much movement is needed.

Different Types of Braces

There are several types of braces. Each one works in a similar way but looks and feels different. Your dentist or orthodontist will help you choose the one that’s best for your needs, budget, and lifestyle.

1. Metal Braces

These are the most common type of braces. They have metal brackets that are glued to each tooth and connected by a wire. The wire is adjusted regularly to slowly move your teeth into place. Metal braces are strong and work well for all kinds of dental problems. They are the most noticeable type, but many kids choose colorful bands to make them fun.

2. Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces work just like metal braces, but the brackets are made of clear or tooth-colored material. This makes them harder to see, which some people prefer. They are popular with teens and adults who want a less noticeable look. However, ceramic braces can be more fragile and may stain if not cleaned well.

3. Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are attached to the back of your teeth (the tongue side), so they can’t be seen from the front. They work like regular braces, but they are hidden. These braces are a good option for people who want a discreet look, but they can take longer to get used to and might be harder to clean.

4. Invisalign (Clear Aligners)

Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic trays to move your teeth. These trays are custom-made and replaced every one to two weeks as your teeth shift. Invisalign is almost invisible and can be taken out when eating or brushing your teeth. It’s a popular choice for adults and teens who want a comfortable and hidden option. However, it’s not always suitable for very complex dental issues.

How Much Do Braces Cost with Insurance?

The cost of braces can be high, but if you have dental insurance that covers orthodontic care, you may not have to pay the full amount. In most cases, insurance can help reduce the cost of braces by a lot. However, the exact amount depends on your insurance plan, the type of braces you choose, and whether the treatment is for a child or an adult.

Just like braces, other dental treatments like implants can also be expensive. If you’re curious about that, you can check our full article on Single Tooth Implant Cost Without Insurance to see what to expect.

How Much Do Braces Cost without Insurance?

If you don’t have dental insurance, braces can be expensive. The total cost depends on the type of braces you choose and how long your treatment lasts. On average, here’s what you might expect to pay:

Metal braces: $3,000 to $7,000
Ceramic braces: $4,000 to $8,500
Lingual braces: $8,000 to $12,000
Invisalign (clear aligners): $3,000 to $8,000

These prices can also go up if you need more complex work. Without insurance, you’ll have to cover the full amount, but many orthodontists offer payment plans to make it easier.

Average Braces Costs With and Without Insurance

Here are the list of Average Braces Costs With and Without Insurance..

Type of Braces	Typical Cost (No Insurance)	Out‑of‑Pocket with Insurance
Metal Braces	$3,000 – $7,000	$1,000 – $3,500
Ceramic Braces	$4,000 – $8,500	$2,000 – $4,500
Lingual Braces	$8,000 – $12,000	$4,000 – $7,000
Invisalign Aligners	$3,000 – $8,000	$1,500 – $4,000

If your plan pays half up to a $1,500 maximum, and your braces cost $5,000, insurance will cover $1,500 and you pay $3,500.

How Insurance Helps Cover Braces?

Most dental insurance plans that include orthodontic care will pay around 50% of the total cost, but only up to a lifetime maximum limit. This limit is the highest amount your insurance will pay for braces in your lifetime. For example, if your plan has a $1,500 lifetime maximum, it will only pay that amount toward your braces—even if the total cost is much higher.

Here’s an example…

If your braces cost $5,000
Your insurance pays 50% (which is $2,500)
But your plan has a $1,500 lifetime limit
So, your insurance will only pay $1,500
You will pay the remaining $3,500

What Does Insurance Usually Cover?

Here are a few things most insurance plans that cover braces will include..

50% of the cost, up to the plan’s lifetime maximum
Children only, in many cases (some plans don’t cover adult braces)
Medically necessary braces (not just cosmetic)
In-network orthodontists only, for full coverage benefits

Things to Check in Your Insurance Plan

Before starting treatment, always check your dental insurance details. Here’s what to look for…

Does the plan cover orthodontics?
What is the lifetime maximum it will pay?
Is there an age limit (like only for people under 18)?
Does the plan cover all types of braces, or only metal?
Can you use any orthodontist, or only ones in the network?

It’s also a good idea to ask your orthodontist to send a pre-treatment estimate to the insurance company. This will show exactly how much your plan will cover, so there are no surprises.

How Insurance Can Lower the Cost?

Without insurance, braces typically range from three thousand to ten thousand dollars, depending on the type you choose and how complex your needs are. A good dental plan can cover part of this cost. Many plans pay around fifty percent of orthodontic treatment, up to a set lifetime maximum—often fifteen hundred or two thousand dollars.

Some plans cover children only, while a few include adults. If you choose an in‑network orthodontist, your share of the bill could drop by thousands. Always confirm the exact percentage, lifetime limit, and age rules with your insurer before you start.

What If Your Insurance Doesn’t Cover Braces?

Not all dental insurance plans include coverage for braces. Some plans may only cover braces for children, while others may not cover orthodontic treatment at all. If you find out that your insurance does not help with the cost of braces, don’t panic. You still have other ways to make braces more affordable. Many people pay for braces without insurance by using flexible payment options or looking for special discounts.

Let’s look at some of the most helpful ways you can still get braces without breaking the bank..

1. Payment Plans

Most orthodontists understand that braces are expensive, so they offer monthly payment plans. This means you don’t have to pay the full cost all at once. Instead, you can spread out the cost over 12, 18, or even 24 months. Many of these plans come with low or no interest, making it easier on your budget. You may need to pay a small deposit at the start, then make regular payments every month.

This is one of the most common ways people afford braces without insurance. Always ask your orthodontist if they offer payment plans and what the terms are.

2. Discount Dental Plans

Discount dental plans are not insurance, but they can help you save money. When you sign up for a discount dental plan, you pay a yearly fee—usually between $100 and $200. In return, you get access to dentists and orthodontists in the plan’s network who offer services at reduced prices.

For braces, these plans may give you 20% to 60% off the regular cost. You pay the dentist directly, but at a lower rate than normal. This can be a smart choice if you don’t have insurance but still want a more affordable way to get orthodontic treatment.

3. Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)

If you work for a company that offers a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), you can use that money to pay for braces. Both accounts let you set aside money from your paycheck before taxes are taken out. That means you save more by using tax-free dollars.

An FSA is usually offered with regular health insurance, and you can use it for medical or dental costs. An HSA is offered with high-deductible health plans and also works for dental expenses. If you have one of these accounts, check your balance and use it to cover part or all of the cost of braces.

4. Dental Schools

Dental schools are another great option for low-cost braces. These schools train future dentists and orthodontists, and they often offer treatment to the public at much lower prices. The students do the work while being closely watched by licensed and experienced instructors.

You may need to travel to a school near you, and appointments can take longer, but you could save a lot, sometimes 50% or more off the regular cost. It’s a good option if you’re looking for quality care at a more affordable price and you don’t mind the extra time.

If your insurance doesn’t cover braces, don’t worry. There are still many ways to make them affordable. Payment plans, discount dental programs, FSAs or HSAs, and dental schools can all help lower the cost. Talk to your orthodontist about the best option for you and take the first step toward a better smile.

Braces for Kids versus Adults

Most insurance plans focus on children’s orthodontics. They view early treatment as preventive and cost‑saving later on. If you are an adult, check your plan carefully. Some plans exclude any orthodontic benefits after age eighteen.

If yours does, you might pay the full fee, but many adults still choose braces or clear aligners because of the long‑term health and confidence benefits. If you and your child both need treatment, compare family‑friendly plans or consider splitting costs between two plans if possible.

How to Get Braces for Free or at Low Cost?

If braces feel out of reach financially, there are a few ways to get help..

Dental schools offer treatment at lower prices if you let students (supervised by licensed dentists) do the work.
Non-profit programs like Smile for a Lifetime or Smiles Change Lives help kids from low-income families get free or discounted braces.
Local community clinics or state-run health programs may also offer affordable care.
You can also look into orthodontic payment plans or use discount dental plans to reduce the cost.

Four Tips to Save Money on Braces

Shop Around. Fees can differ widely between practices. Get estimates from two or three local orthodontists.
Ask for Up‑Front Discounts. Many offices reduce fees by 5 to 10 percent for full upfront payment.
Choose Simple Options. Traditional metal braces remain the most affordable choice.
Start Early. For kids, catching issues younger can shorten treatment time and lower total cost.

Does Medicaid Cover Braces?

Medicaid sometimes covers braces, but it depends on your state and your situation. In many states, Medicaid will pay for braces for children and teens if the treatment is considered medically necessary, such as for severe bite problems or jaw issues. However, Medicaid usually does not cover braces for cosmetic reasons or for adults. You’ll need to get a referral from a dentist and an evaluation from an orthodontist to see if your case qualifies.

FAQs

Will My Insurance Pay for Clear Aligners like Invisalign?

Some plans include clear aligners under the same orthodontic benefit. Others cover only traditional braces. Always check the fine print.

Can I Switch Orthodontists After Treatment Starts?

You can, but the new doctor may charge a start‑up fee. Also, your insurance benefit maximum does not reset, so you could owe more out of pocket.

What Is the Cheapest Type of Braces?

Metal braces are usually the most affordable option. They’ve been around the longest and are highly effective, even for serious dental problems. While they are the most visible type, they do the job well and cost less than other options like Invisalign, ceramic braces, or lingual braces. If cost is your main concern, metal braces are often the best choice.

What is a Lifetime Maximum?

This is the total dollar amount your plan will pay for orthodontics over your lifetime. Once you reach it, you pay any additional costs yourself.

How Long Does Treatment Usually Last?

Most braces stay on for 12 to 24 months. Longer treatment may increase total cost, so ask about average time for your specific case.

Can You Pay Monthly for Braces?

Yes, most orthodontists offer monthly payment plans. Instead of paying thousands of dollars up front, you can break the total cost into smaller monthly payments. Some offices even offer zero-interest financing. For example, if your braces cost $4,000, you might pay around $150 to $300 a month, depending on the length of your plan. Always ask about payment options during your first consultation.

Conclusion

Braces can be a significant investment in your health and self‑confidence. Insurance often makes this treatment far more affordable by covering a large portion of the cost. To make the best choice, learn exactly what your plan covers, get a preauthorization estimate, and explore payment plans or other discount options if needed. With a clear plan in place, you can look forward to a beautiful, healthy smile without financial surprises.