During consultations, people ask us if clear braces cost more than regular metal braces. We know that planning for orthodontic treatment is expensive and understanding the truth will help you plan better. The short answer is yes, clear braces are more expensive than metal braces. But knowing why and what you get for that money will help you decide if the extra cost is worth it for you.
Instead of stainless steel, clear braces use ceramic or composite materials. To make brackets that are strong and look good, these materials require more advanced manufacturing. The ceramic compounds need to be designed to match the color of the teeth and be strong enough to withstand the forces of orthodontic treatment. This kind of manufacturing increases the base cost of the materials themselves. Ceramic brackets are also more fragile than metal ones, so they may break and need to be replaced during treatment. These things combined make the total cost higher than regular metal braces.
People come to Specialty Smiles for orthodontic treatment with different needs and wants. Some folks only care about getting results at the lowest price. Others think it’s really important to look natural while they’re in treatment. We get whatever is most important to you and neither view is wrong. Many adults and teens who care about their looks think the extra cost of clear braces is worth it because they feel more confident during treatment. You can’t put a price on the real value of being able to smile freely at work, school or social events without feeling self conscious about metal brackets.
There are a few things that affect the real price difference between clear and metal braces. A big part of it is how complex your orthodontic situation is. No matter what kind of braces you choose, more extensive repairs that take longer to heal will cost more. Prices are also affected by the location of the office, the orthodontist’s level of experience and the state of the local market. Patients in our Miami Lakes office usually pay several hundred to over a thousand dollars more for clear braces than for metal braces. During your first appointment we give you a thorough estimate of the costs so you know exactly what to expect before you agree to treatment.
Your insurance coverage has a big impact on how much you have to pay out of pocket. Many dental insurance plans cover orthodontic care and pay a certain amount towards treatment. This coverage works the same way whether you use clear or metal braces. You are still responsible for the balance of the bill once the insurance company pays their portion. Some policies have specific limits or exclusions for cosmetic modifications like clear brackets so we make sure you fully understand your coverage. Our administrative team talks directly to insurance companies to get you the most benefits and the least amount of surprises.
We offer flexible payment plans that break up the costs into monthly payments for patients who are concerned about how much they can afford. These plans make it possible to get clear braces even if paying the full amount up front seems impossible. We make payment plans that work with your budget and financial situation. Cost shouldn’t keep you from getting good orthodontic care. Everyone should have the chance to have a healthy, beautiful smile that makes them feel good about themselves and makes their life better.
Some patients ask if clear braces require more visits or take longer to work than metal braces. In most cases the answer is no. Both types of braces work on the same mechanical principles to slowly move teeth into place. The length of your treatment will depend on your unique orthodontic needs and not the type of brackets used. Clear braces don’t slow down the process by themselves. But if ceramic brackets break more often than metal ones do it can add a little time to your overall treatment. Most patients who follow the care instructions and avoid foods that can hurt their health finish their treatment on time.
You can see the cosmetic benefits of clear braces as soon as they’re put on. The ceramic brackets blend in with your natural teeth so they’re much less noticeable than metal ones. People won’t even notice you have braces on from a normal distance. This is what appeals to working professionals who meet with clients, students who are self conscious about how they look, and anyone who wants to fix their teeth without everyone knowing they’re getting braces. Don’t forget how good it feels to be okay with how you look while you’re in treatment.
We also know some people don’t care at all how metal braces look. Kids like to choose colored elastic bands and show off their braces. Some teens and adults are comfortable with standard metal brackets and would rather save money for other things that are more important to them. These patients get the same great benefits as those who choose clear braces. The type of material used for the brackets doesn’t affect how well the therapy works. When used correctly by skilled orthodontic professionals both options work.
When looking at your options think about the whole value not just the price. Clear braces cost more upfront but they give you benefits you can’t see during treatment. Your total experience includes being able to smile naturally in pictures, feeling comfortable presenting yourself professionally at work and going through treatment without always being reminded of your braces. We give a lot of information about 6 Month Braces and other fast methods that might work for some situations to patients who want to learn more about other treatment options.
Many of our patients in Miami Lakes have come to us for help with these kinds of financial decisions. Some patients choose clear braces even if they cost more because they meet their lifestyle needs. Some patients choose metal braces and are very happy with their choice. Both groups end up with straight, healthy smiles that change how they feel about themselves. It’s not the kind of braces you wear that matters most; it’s that you commit to finishing treatment and following all the care instructions along the way.
Schedule an appointment so we can discuss prices and answer all your questions. Knowing how much you have to spend upfront lets you make decisions with confidence knowing you won’t have to worry about extra costs later. We give you written treatment estimates that outline all the charges so you know exactly what you’re committing to. Being open and honest creates trust and makes you feel comfortable throughout your whole orthodontic experience. Whether you choose clear or metal braces we promise to give you the best care and results beyond what you expect. Your investment in orthodontic treatment will pay off for the rest of your life by making your teeth healthier, your smile more beautiful and your confidence higher everywhere. Dr. Eddy J. Sedeño III, DMD, MS is a board-certified orthodontist based in Miami Lakes, Florida, renowned for combining advanced technologic approaches with patient-centric care to deliver exceptional and lasting smiles.