Monthly Breakdown of Braces Costs: Is It Worth It?

The average cost for traditional metal braces is around $6,000. For an average treatment time of 24 months, this could mean a monthly fee of around $250 before any insurance co-payments or financing fees. 

Braces pricing varies dramatically from one mouth to another, and some professionals tack on fees that add to your overall cost. Families that don't read the fine print could end up with unexpected bills that they struggle to pay.

How Much Do Braces Cost?

Here is a basic cost breakdown of different types of braces:

• Metal braces: $3,000–$7,000
• Ceramic braces: $4,000–$8,000
• Lingual braces: $8,000–$10,000

What is the Average Cost of Braces Per Month?

Most dental professionals discuss total pricing. Rather than quoting you a per-month fee, they'll explain the size of your total bill. A little math can help you break that big fee down into a monthly price. 

Expect to pay about $6,000 for metal braces, experts say. Most people wear the devices for 24 months.

$6,000 / 24 months = $250 per month

However, additional treatment fees may apply for any additional needs (like x-rays or damaged braces) as well as additional financing costs.

What is the Average Cost of Braces Per Month with Insurance?

Will insurance cut the cost? The level of financial help will vary by plan, but it's common for dental insurance policies to include these things:

• Exclusions: Some plans won't cover certain types of orthodontic help, like ceramic braces.
• Deductibles: You'll have to pay a specific amount before your plan benefits kick in.
• Copayments: You'll have to cover some of the cost of treatment out of your own budget.
• Maximums: Your plan will pay up to a specified amount. After that, you're responsible for the bill.

Imagine that your dental plan came with these things:

• Coverage for metal braces
• $500 in deductibles
• 50% copays
• A $2,000 maximum amount of coverage

If your total braces cost is $6,000, you'll get about $2,000 of help. That cuts your remaining bill by quite a bit, but you will still have fees to cover.

$4,000 / 24 months = $167 per month

Factors that Affect the Price of Braces Per Month

Looking at average costs can help you to get an idea of the monthly cost of braces, but there are also factors you should consider when trying to estimate the monthly price of your treatment. These include the following:

• The type of braces you’re getting: Metal “traditional” braces are the most affordable of braces options. Ceramic braces (with clear or tooth-colored hardware) are generally a bit more expensive. Lingual braces, which attach to the back of the teeth, are the most expensive option.
• Financing fees: Payment plans through an orthodontist office or third-party provider may charge you considerable fees for financing. Be sure you understand the terms and shop around before agreeing to a payment plan.
• Orthodontic appliances and accessories: Devices like headgear and palate expanders may be used to correct your bite, and they may come with additional fees.
• Your orthodontist: Some specialists charge extra for additional licenses or training. Comparing one practitioner with others in the area can give you an idea of whether or not you’re paying an unnecessary premium.
• Unexpected fees: Before beginning treatment, go over all anticipated out-of-pocket costs with your orthodontists. Check your monthly bills or invoices to ensure there aren’t any surprises.

Financing Options to Help Pay for Braces

Braces are expensive, and some providers offer monthly payment plans that can help you manage the cost of care.

Some dental and orthodontic practices offer low or even 0% financing to their patients. Others charge a hefty fee or use a costly third-party credit provider.

In some cases, a low-APR personal loan or credit card may be a better option to pay for braces, especially if your orthodontist offers a discount for paying in full.

Comparing the Cost of Braces to Teeth Aligners

Aligner companies like Byte are different. These organizations use innovative technology to move teeth while eliminating appointments and hidden costs. Everything is bundled into one monthly fee that includes the following:

• A treatment plan that is designed and monitored by professionals.
• A series of clear aligners that will move your teeth to optimize your smile.
• HyperByte® that gently vibrates your teeth to shorten treatment times.
• A sample of BrightByte™ for whiter teeth.
• Medical-grade retainers to protect your smile after treatment.
• A lifetime guarantee.

With BytePay™, you'll have a bill of $70 per month for 36 months. You’ll pay an initial $249 deposit, and the payment plan comes with no hidden costs or tricky fees you didn't expect. The financing comes with a 100 percent approval rating, and your credit can be checked without impacting your credit score.

If monthly payments aren't right for you, you may choose to cover the total cost of $1,999 in one single payment. That's still remarkably less than the competition.

References

The Average Cost of Braces. (December 2019). ValuePenguin. 

Your Guide to Adult Braces. (October 2019). Delta Dental. 

The Average Cost of Braces and How to Save. (June 2021). U.S. News & World Report. 

How to Pay Less for Kids' Braces and Orthodontics. (June 2018). Fatherly. 

Pricing. Byte.

Is a Braces Payment Plan a Good Idea? Credit Karma.