Braces do more than just straighten your teeth. They can help you improve chewing, boost your dental hygiene, and increase your self-confidence. But how much do braces cost in Canada?
Braces aren’t cheap. Depending on the type of braces you choose, they can range anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000. That’s a big chunk of change and a huge shock to patients unaware of the costs.
In this article on how much do braces cost in Canada? , I’ll touch on the four most common types of braces and how much each one costs. From there, it’s up to you to decide which one best fits your lifestyle.
Types of Braces Available
These days, there are more options to correct your overbite than ever before. However, those options come with varying price tags. Let’s go over the types of braces available today and the average cost of each.
Traditional Braces
Usually, when you think of braces you conjure up images of metal brackets and wires. This traditional style is the most common and usually costs the least.
But with advanced technological developments in the orthodontics field, the cost of traditional braces has risen. On average, metal braces cost anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000.
Many factors determine the cost, including how long the patient needs to wear the braces, where the patient lives, and if any insurance coverage is available.
Metal braces are the most common and stand the test of time because they’re effective and economical. If you’re picking braces based on price, this traditional method is most likely your best bet.
However, there is one major drawback to metal braces, and that’s the look of them. Traditional braces are very visible, and there’s no hiding them. While the result will far outweigh any time spent feeling self-conscious, some people are interested in searching for other options.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are similar to traditional ones, just that the colouring of the brackets and wires are more natural-looking. The brackets are tooth coloured and the wires translucent, making them less visible unless you’re up close.
These braces are slightly larger than traditional ones and may need to stay on a bit longer. Because of the additional pleasing aesthetic and longer length of time, ceramic braces are more expensive than traditional ones.
Typically, ceramic braces range in price from $4,000 to $8,000. For some, the slightly higher cost is worth it if it means staying away from the more noticeable metal braces.
Lingual Braces
Often called “hidden braces,” lingual braces are on the inside of your teeth, making them less noticeable. While the positioning is different from traditional braces, the equipment used is generally the same.
However, lingual braces are custom-made to achieve the proper fit, making them the most expensive option on the list. Not only will you encounter a higher cost, but you’ll also face longer appointment times and added discomforts.
Lingual braces run anywhere from $8,000 to $10,000. For some, the price is worth it to keep their braces inconspicuous.
Invisalign
When Invisalign first came out more than 20 years ago, the price was staggering. Today, it’s one of the most popular options for adult patients.
Invisalign is a little different from the traditional metal brackets and wires. Instead, your dental provider will scan your teeth and form a custom treatment plan to help deliver the best results. Patients wear aligners or clear plastic trays for at least 20 hours a day to help shift teeth into the desired position.
You’ll frequently need to swap out the tray as your teeth move. You’ll also need to visit your orthodontist more than those with traditional braces. The benefit to Invisalign is that it’s invisible and removable for eating or cleaning your teeth.
With more patients choosing Invisalign and technological advancements in the field, the procedure became more cost-effective. Today, Invisalign treatment ranges from $4,000 to $7,400, slightly higher than traditional braces.
How to Pay for Braces
One of the biggest factors when determining the type of braces to get is price. With ranges from $3,000 to $10,000, it’s best to do your homework and know what you’re in for before you decide.
Remember that several factors will determine how much your braces cost. They include:
- The type of braces. As discussed earlier, metal braces are usually the cheapest option, with lingual braces coming in at the highest. In addition to braces, you also need to consider other dental services and equipment necessary, i.e., tooth extraction, spacers, and retainers.
- The extent of misalignment. The initial condition of your teeth, including their alignment, also factors into the cost of services.
- Duration of treatment. How long your braces stay on determines part of the cost. The longer the braces are on, the more money they’ll cost.
Most orthodontist’s offices know that cost is a huge factor when a patient comes in for a consult. That’s why many offer different payment options. The most common one is to spread the payment out throughout the treatment period.
Monthly payments are more manageable than one lump sum payment, making treatment an affordable option.
Are Braces Covered By Insurance In Canada?
Some of the costs might be covered by your insurance if you have orthodontic coverage on your dental plan. According to the Canadian Association of Orthodontists (CAO), 50% of the cost of braces is usually covered by orthodontic insurance.
Considering braces can cost upwards of $10,000, having 50% of the costs covered is a huge deal. Of course, coverage differs between dental plans, so it’s important to check what yours covers before you take the plunge.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking to straighten your crooked teeth and boost your self-confidence, braces can help. While they are expensive, depending on which type you choose, you can look to spend anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000.
Dental insurance can help pay for a portion of the treatment, and orthodontist offices usually offer a payment plan option.
If you’re thinking you or someone in your family needs braces, and you’re looking at ways to come up with some added savings for the treatment, check out these 11 ways to earn extra money.
