When choosing between metal and clear braces, you have to think about a lot of things and cost is one of the biggest. Every day at Specialty Smiles we help patients who want to know how much these two popular orthodontic treatments cost. Both work well to straighten teeth and fix similar orthodontic problems but cost differently. Knowing what causes these price differences will help you make a smart choice that fits your budget and style.
For years metal braces have been the most common way to address orthodontic problems. They are made up of metal wires that connect stainless steel brackets that are glued to your teeth. The materials are not too expensive to make and the process is well known and quick. This keeps the base cost lower than newer options. Metal braces are also very strong and don’t break often when used normally so you won’t have to pay as much to replace them during treatment. Because of these things metal braces are usually the cheapest option for people who want fixed orthodontic appliances.
Clear braces work the same way as metal braces but they are made of ceramic or composite materials that match the color of your natural teeth. It costs extra to make these materials because they require advanced engineering and production methods. The ceramic compounds have to be strong enough to withstand the forces of orthodontics while looking like tooth enamel. You have to pay extra for this combination of beauty and strength. Ceramic brackets are also a little more fragile than metal ones so they sometimes break and need to be replaced. These things make clear braces more expensive.
At our Miami Lakes office we see the price difference between metal and clear braces is usually between a few hundred to a thousand dollars depending on the details of your case. The actual cost depends on how complex the treatment is, how many teeth need to be fixed and how long it will take. No matter what type of bracket you have simple situations that get fixed fast cost less. Complex repairs that take longer to fix cost more. During your first visit with us we will give you a clear pricing so you can compare your options and choose the one that fits your budget.
Many patients ask if the extra cost of clear braces is worth it. This is a personal choice and depends on your priorities and lifestyle. For professionals who work with clients or customers every day the extra cost of clear braces might be worth it. People who work with clients including teachers, salespeople and public speakers generally choose clear braces because they look good while they are getting treatment. Teenagers and young adults who are self conscious about how they look often choose clear braces so people won’t notice their orthodontic work.
Some patients don’t care how metal braces look. Kids like to choose colored elastic bands and show off their braces to their friends. Some teens and adults think metal braces are just a phase and would rather save money for other things that are more important to them. Patients who choose clear braces get the same results as those who choose metal braces since both types of braces move teeth using the same mechanical principles. The material of the bracket doesn’t change how well the treatment works or the end results.
Insurance coverage is a big factor in how much you will have to pay out of pocket. Most dental insurance policies that cover orthodontics pay a certain amount towards treatment instead of a percentage of certain types of brackets. This means your insurer can pay the same amount for metal and clear braces. You are still responsible for paying the difference between what your insurance pays and the full cost of treatment. We work directly with insurance carriers to make sure you get the most out of your benefits and know exactly how much you will have to pay.
We offer flexible payment plans so that treatment is more affordable for those who have to pay out of pocket. These plans allow you to pay over time instead of all at once. We create payment plans that fit your budget and your financial situation. We want no one to have to pay for orthodontic services they need. No matter how much money someone has they should be able to get good medical care.
The length of treatment is usually the same whether you get metal or clear braces. Both work the same way to slowly move teeth into place. The wires put pressure on the teeth and we change that pressure at each appointment to keep progress on track. Patients do have to be a little more careful about avoiding hard or sticky foods that could break ceramic brackets but clear braces don’t impede treatment. Fixing broken brackets may add a little time to treatment but most patients who follow care standards finish on time.
Aside from the type of brackets the continuing expenses of both metal and clear braces are about the same. No matter what kind of brackets you have you need the same amount of adjustment appointments. Both require home care that includes specific brushing and flossing routines. The only difference is that ceramic brackets break more often but this isn’t a big deal if patients follow the care instructions. Most people finish their treatment without having to pay for something they didn’t expect.
We tell patients to look at the whole picture when they look at costs. Metal braces are the best choice for those on a budget because they work and are the cheapest option. Clear braces are more expensive but many people feel the aesthetic benefits they offer are worth the extra money during treatment. There is no clear winner between the two and we can help you figure out which one is best for you. We also have information on Braces for Adults for those who want to look into other options. This is because age related factors can sometimes affect treatment choices.
At our Miami Lakes office we have helped many patients make these choices and find the best solution for them. Some choose metal braces and are happy with that from start to finish. Some choose clear braces and are grateful for the privacy they get every day. Both groups finish treatment with perfectly aligned smiles which boosts their confidence and quality of life. It doesn’t matter what kind of braces you wear; what matters is that you commit to the treatment.
We would love for you to schedule an appointment with Specialty Smiles so we can go over the pricing in detail and answer all your questions. We give you written estimates that list all the costs so you know how much you will need to pay before you start treatment. Being open and honest helps you make decisions with confidence and makes sure nothing surprises you later. Your investment in orthodontic treatment will pay off for the rest of your life by making your teeth healthier, your smile better and giving you more confidence in all areas of your life. We will give you the best care possible whether you choose metal braces or clear braces. We want you to have the smile you’ve always wanted. 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.