How much do braces cost?
If you’re thinking about braces either for yourself or for your child, you’ve probably got a few questions. And if you’re like most people, one of the biggest questions you have is probably this one: How much do braces cost? And the answer is — well, there is no single answer. That’s because while there are a few general guidelines regarding overall costs when it comes to orthodontics, your specific care plan is going to vary based on your individual needs. In fact, that’s one of the benefits of seeing a Phoenix orthodontist “in person” compared to choosing a DIY “teledentistry” option like some of those being investigated. You get truly customized care that’s tailored to your needs. Not just at the initial fitting (like teledentistry), but throughout your entire course of care. There are other factors that influence cost of braces as well, including the type you get.
Still, if you’re searching for how much braces cost, you’re not looking for generalities. You want specifics, so you can plan for those costs and fit them into your budget. Here’s the scoop.
How much do braces cost?
The cost of Phoenix orthodontic treatment depends in part on the type of appliance you receive. What is cheaper metal or clear braces? In general, traditional metal braces are a bit less costly than clear braces or clear aligners, for instance. Yet despite the cost difference, many people choose clear aligners for the benefits they offer. Most notably, their comfortable fit and almost-impossible-to-detect design. With clear aligner options like Invisalign, you take the aligners out to eat. That way you can enjoy all the foods you love, including crunchy and really sticky foods you should really avoid with traditional braces in Scottsdale. And you also take the trays out to brush and floss, so it’s easier to care for your teeth during treatment, as well.
That’s why even though they cost more, many patients prefer them — and are willing to pay the extra cost to have them instead of braces. In this case, your own personal preference can play a role in the overall cost of your braces. And that’s another reason why it’s not always easy to give a single answer regarding the cost of care.
What about how much do braces cost in Scottsdale, AZ? Fortunately, while costs do vary, there are some general guidelines and average figures that can give you an idea of how much are braces in AZ. In general, traditional metal braces can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000 on average. The cost of ceramic braces running slightly higher. If you opt for clear aligners, your costs can range from about $3,000 to $7,000 or slightly more. Depending on the number of aligners you need and any special design considerations costs can vary. And again, depending on your treatment plan, your costs for any of these options might be a bit higher or a bit lower.
Braces: Cost vs. value
Budgets are a reality for most of us, and that means we need to plan our expenses carefully. As anyone who budgets knows, not all expenses are equal. Some expenses provide a lot more value than others. And there are plenty of budget items where getting a “cheaper” option can wind up costing a lot more in the long run. Although it might seem odd to think of orthodontics in those terms, it’s important to consider the value of the treatment as well as the cost.
Many people think of the value of braces in terms of the cosmetic improvements they offer, and that’s absolutely important. After all, your smile is one of the first things most people notice about you. When your smile looks great, you just feel better about your overall appearance and about the impression you’re making. In fact, it’s not uncommon for patients to report that they feel a lot more confident after they have orthodontic treatment.
Improve Your Oral Health
But braces and aligners may also help improve your oral health — not just during treatment, but for the rest of your life. And that’s something you need to consider as well.
Teeth that are straight and properly aligned are easier to keep clean with brushing and flossing. That’s because when your teeth are straight, there aren’t as many places for bacteria and plaque to hide. Plus, brushes and floss work better with straight teeth. And when your teeth line up properly, you won’t have problems with uneven tooth wear. It can also reduce excess strain in your jaws, a condition that can lead to chronic headaches, facial pain and temporomandibular joint disorder or TMJ. Improving oral health is a big value consideration. By decreasing your risk of more serious oral health problems, you not only avoid pain and discomfort, but you could also lower your future costs of dental care substantially.
Affordable braces in Phoenix and Scottsdale: Yes, they exist!
At Dunn Orthodontics, we want all our patients to get the care they need at a cost they can afford. That’s why we offer an array of payment options, like monthly installment plans with 0% interest and low- and no-down payment options, so you can create the budget-friendly solution that works for you. Have insurance? No problem! We can also figure out how much do braces cost with insurance for you.
If you want braces for yourself or for your child, don’t let cost hold you back. As a top-ranked orthodontist practice serving patients in and around Phoenix and Scottsdale, we can help make the cost of your treatment affordable so you can enjoy all the benefits of straighter teeth and a more beautiful smile. To learn more about the treatment and payment options we offer, call us at 602-864-0004 and schedule an office visit today.