The cost of braces is a hot topic for parents of teenagers who are informed that they need orthodontic braces but if you have arrived here looking for a number, you’re going to have to read a bit more first.
The total cost of orthodontics is very dependant on a number of variable factors and it is only after a consultation with your dentist that you can have any idea of what the price tag is going to amount to.
The Cost Of Braces: Teenagers Vs Adult Orthodontics
Parents may adopt a different attitude to the cost of their teenagers’ braces compared to orthodontic treatments for themselves. And this is largely due to the fact that there are now more orthodontic options than ever before.
Today the focus lies on creating orthodontic treatments that are discreet and hardly visible, which is what a working adult is more inclined to choose. And, in a lot of cases this is often a deciding factor for an adult, in terms of whether they will go ahead with the treatment or not. Of course, the more advanced the orthodontic solution, the more expensive it tends to be.
The good news for teenagers and adults who are willing to try out traditional orthodontics is that they are much more compact than before. They are also easier to adjust to and result in less pain and irritation after fittings and adjustments when compared to a few years ago.
What Is The Average Cost Of Braces?
As a general rule of thumb the less visible the orthodontics, the more expensive they are. The only way to know for sure, is to have a professional assessment and then to compare the options within your own treatment plan. With that in mind, here are some helpful guidelines as to what you can expect.
Traditional metal braces
Traditional metal braces are estimated to cost between $5000 and $9000 for treatment. They are the most cost effective and do produce results, as long as you follow your dentist’s instructions. If you want the effectiveness of metal braces without the visibility, lingual braces offer you the best of both.
Invisalign invisible braces
If you decide that invisible aligners are the solution for your crooked teeth, you can expect a higher price tag. Orthodontics Australia says that Invisalign treatments average between $3500 and $9000 for the full course, depending on your circumstances.
The official Invisalign website offers a calculator to help you estimate your treatment costs. You can find that here.
Ceramic braces
Ceramic braces are made from tooth coloured resin that makes them discreet. Popular with adults, they do require special care to prevent staining. A set of ceramic braces does come at a premium and you may pay upwards of $9000 for orthodontic treatment.
Why Are Braces Expensive?
Healthy, functional teeth should last for a lifetime and if you do require orthodontic treatment it is perhaps more helpful to think of it as an investment in your future health.
Not only are straight teeth important for facial harmony and our self esteem, teeth need to be straight in order to clean them and prevent the development of decay. Braces are not just a cosmetic improvement, they perform the important job of aligning your teeth to keep you healthy.
Successful orthodontic treatment requires a long-term treatment plan. When your dentist presents you with the cost it will be comprehensive and include all the costs that will be associated with your treatment.
This would include line items like:
Your consultations, assessments and adjustments
The success of your treatment plan requires a skilled practitioner to oversee it. You will need to make regular visits to the dentist so your progress can be valuated, and in order to make the necessary adjustments that improve the outcome of your treatment.
Your orthodontic appliances
High quality appliances are also necessary for successful treatment. Regardless of the system you opt for, your solution should be of high quality to give you the results you need.
Post treatment input
Once the braces have been taken off (yes, don’t worry, it will happen one day!), you will also need to visit your dentist to ensure that your teeth do not drift back towards their old positions. You may need to wear a retainer after your orthodontic braces. These costs will be incorporated into the final figure you are presented with.
To find out more about the cost of braces, and the options available to you please contact our practice: (02) 8188 4625
