“How much will my treatment cost?” This is one of the most common questions we’re asked here at Mack Orthodontics, but there’s no “one size fits all” answer to it. Just like every smile is unique, so is every treatment plan! For example, some patients have only mild corrections to make which means less treatment time and visits, while others have complicated cases that require certain appliances and phased treatment. The total cost of treatment reflects the amount of orthodontic work included in the patient’s plan, along with several other factors. These include:
- the type of orthodontic appliance
- if the braces are for a child or an adult
- the orthodontic issues being treated
- any insurance coverage
- the orthodontist providing treatment
- the area in which the patient resides and receives treatment
The only way to find out exactly how much your treatment would be is to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Mack or Dr. Johnson. During this initial visit, you’ll receive an oral examination and we’ll be able to get a good look at what’s happening beneath the surface of your smile by taking digital photographs and x-rays. This allows our doctors to form an initial diagnosis and complete a personalized treatment plan for you. This plan will include the total investment needed for your new smile!
Is there an average price range for popular treatment options?
While we may not be able to give you a specific estimate for treatment without examining you first, we can give you some idea of what you can expect to invest during your orthodontic journey. Let’s break it down by the different treatment types below.
Traditional metal braces
[$3,000-7,000]
Traditional metal braces are the most widely used orthodontic appliance. They’re made using a mix of high-grade stainless steel, nickel, and other metals, which makes them very durable and long-lasting. They also have a long track record of being an effective and economical option for straightening the teeth, particularly in cases that are more severe or complex. Today’s braces are smaller, lighter, and more comfortable than ever before. You can even customize them by choosing fun color combinations for your elastics!
Clear braces
[$4,000-8,000]
Sometimes known as ceramic braces, these are a variation on conventional braces that provide a much less noticeable method of treatment. Clear braces utilize the same components as traditional braces, but instead of metal, the brackets are made of a translucent ceramic material that blends in with the natural color of your teeth. This offers patients an incredibly discreet treatment option, particularly when paired with clear, white, or tooth-colored wires and elastic ties.
InBrace lingual braces
[$8,000-10,000]
InBrace is the newest in orthodontic technology! Like traditional braces, these braces work by applying gentle yet continuous pressure on the teeth to help them slowly shift into the desired positions. However, InBrace uses just a few robotically bent wires behind the teeth to discreetly create a beautiful custom smile.
Invisalign clear aligners
[$4,000-7,000]
Instead of metal brackets and wires, the Invisalign system uses a series of clear aligners to gradually move the teeth into the desired positions. These custom-made trays fit snugly over the patient’s teeth and don’t tend to irritate the gums or cheeks the way braces sometimes can. When treating common orthodontic issues, Invisalign is just as effective as braces, but offers a nearly invisible way to straighten smiles! The removable aligners are also a bonus for patients who want an extremely flexible treatment option.
What does the cost of orthodontic treatment include?
We value our patients, and never want you to feel as though we’re taking advantage of you. When it comes to treatment fees, we know that nobody likes surprises! That’s why we’re transparent about what’s included in your treatment plan. We’ll ensure you understand each item before you ever begin the active phase of the orthodontic process. You can expect your customized treatment plan to include:
- all appointments, including emergency visits
- braces or aligners
- post-treatment retainers
- post-treatment follow-up visits
- an oral hygiene starter pack
In other words, Mack Orthodontics will provide you with everything you need to achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile over the years!
Will dental insurance cover orthodontic treatment?
There are many dental insurance plans that will cover orthodontic treatment in part or full. However, the rules and policies for coverage can be confusing. Luckily, our office staff is always available to help you with insurance claims and paperwork. We’ll work with your insurance provider and make sure you understand your insurance benefits for maximum coverage.
Here at Mack Orthodontics, our doctors will never recommend a treatment plan for you based solely on whether or not it is covered by insurance. Our doctors base their plans on each patient’s unique smile and specific needs only. Once you’ve had a consultation with us and been presented with a proposed treatment plan, you should check with your provider to see what they are willing to cover.
If insurance won’t cover orthodontic treatment, can the cost be deducted?
If braces or aligners are deemed to be medically necessary, the dental health care costs associated with them can sometimes be tax-deductible. However, that cost generally has to exceed a certain amount before any deductions would kick in. You should keep track of all expenses associated with your braces treatment if you want to deduct the costs. This includes any co-pays and check-up visits.
Invest in a smile you can be proud of with Mack Orthodontics
While orthodontics can improve the cosmetic appearance of your smile, the benefits go beyond that! Oral health also plays an important role in our total body health. Crooked teeth are harder to clean effectively and can increase your chances for tooth decay, while misalignment can lead to pain and soreness in the head, jaw, and neck. Orthodontic treatment can reduce or eliminate these symptoms, leaving you with a smile that looks good and feels good, too!
At Mack Orthodontics, we believe patients of all ages should have access to high-quality orthodontic care. We’re proud to offer affordable treatment options that fit every budget, including metal braces, clear braces, InBrace lingual braces, and Invisalign clear aligners.
If you’re in Burlington, Hillsborough, or the surrounding areas and want to learn more about how orthodontics can transform your smile, get in touch with us today to schedule your FREE consultation with Dr. Mack or Dr. Johnson!