Orthodontics · Braces · National Cost

How much do braces cost?

Average Braces cost in the US: $3,680-$9,650

🏥 Based on ADA fee survey data
📊 Population-weighted national average
🔄 Updated May 2026
✓ Reviewed by Pearl clinical team
$3680 – $9650

Typical Braces range across the United States

📍 All 50 states covered 🏥 PPO typically covers up to ortho max

National average

$5645

Braces · D8080

What is this procedure?

About this procedure

Braces are an orthodontic treatment that uses brackets bonded to each tooth, connected by archwires that apply continuous, controlled force to move teeth into proper alignment. They are the most effective option for treating complex orthodontic problems — severe crowding, large gaps, significant overbite or underbite, rotated teeth, and unusual bite issues — and produce more predictable results than clear aligners for difficult cases.

Treatment length is typically 12-30 months, depending on case complexity. Patients return every 4-8 weeks for adjustments. Modern braces options include traditional metal, ceramic (tooth-colored), self-ligating systems, and lingual (back-of-teeth) versions, each at different price points. Although clear aligners have gained popularity, braces remain the gold standard for moderate-to-severe orthodontic cases and are typically less expensive than equivalent aligner treatment.

Price factors

What affects this cost?

  • Type of braces: Traditional metal is least expensive; ceramic (tooth-colored) braces cost 20-30% more; self-ligating systems (Damon, etc.) run higher; lingual braces (behind the teeth) are typically the most expensive at 50-100% above traditional metal.
  • Case complexity: Phase I early intervention treatments cost less than full Phase II adult treatment. Complex cases requiring extractions, expanders, or skeletal anchors cost significantly more.
  • Provider: Orthodontists typically charge more than general dentists who offer braces, but orthodontists handle complex cases with better outcomes.
  • Treatment length: Longer cases mean more appointments, more wires, and higher total cost. Compliance issues that extend treatment add to the total.
  • Geography: Major metro orthodontic practices charge 30-50% more than smaller-market providers.
  • Pre-treatment work: Tooth extractions, jaw expanders, headgear, or temporary anchorage devices (TADs) add to the cost.

By state

Where does this cost the most and least?

Pearl tracks pricing across all 50 states. Below are the highest and lowest cost markets — click any state for a full state-level cost breakdown across covered cities.

Highest cost states

Lowest cost states

Quote checker

What should your quote include?

Different providers bundle costs differently. Here's what a complete quote typically covers — and what's often left out.

USUALLY INCLUDED IN THE QUOTED PRICE

  • Initial orthodontic consultation and treatment planning
  • X-rays, photos, and impressions or 3D scans
  • Bracket placement and bonding
  • All archwire changes throughout treatment
  • Regular adjustment appointments (every 4-8 weeks)
  • Removal of braces at end of treatment
  • First set of retainers (in most practices)

OFTEN BILLED SEPARATELY — ASK BEFORE YOU AGREE

  • Tooth extractions if needed (typically billed separately)
  • Replacement retainers if lost or broken
  • Damage from non-compliance (broken brackets from hard foods, missed appointments)
  • Specialty appliances (palatal expanders, headgear) — sometimes billed separately
  • Whitening after braces (a popular add-on)
  • Restorative work to fix cavities discovered during/after braces

Health stakes

What happens if you delay treatment?

  • Crowding continues to worsen over time as teeth shift forward
  • Untreated bite issues lead to TMJ problems, premature tooth wear, and disproportionate gum recession
  • Severely crowded teeth are harder to clean and develop more decay and gum disease
  • Speech and chewing function can be affected by significant malocclusion
  • Self-confidence and social impacts of visible alignment issues increase with age

Before you agree

Questions to ask your provider

  • What type of braces do you recommend for my case, and why?
  • How long will my treatment take, and what factors could extend it?
  • Will I need any pre-treatment work (extractions, expanders, etc.)?
  • Are retainers included in the quoted price?
  • How often will I need to come in for adjustments?
  • What happens if a bracket breaks between appointments?

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Treatment typically begins between ages 10-14 once most permanent teeth have erupted, though some cases benefit from earlier Phase I intervention. Adult treatment is also common — there's no age limit on braces.
Most dental insurance plans with orthodontic coverage will pay 50% of the cost up to a lifetime maximum of $1,500-$3,000. The lifetime ortho cap applies once per patient, regardless of multiple treatments. For adult patients, fewer plans include orthodontic coverage, so check your policy carefully before starting treatment.
Ceramic braces (tooth-colored) cost 20-30% more than traditional metal braces — typically $1,000-$2,000 extra for a complete case. They're more aesthetically pleasing but slightly more fragile and require more careful brushing.
Yes, almost all orthodontic practices offer interest-free in-house payment plans, typically with 20-25% down and monthly payments over the treatment length. Third-party financing (CareCredit, LendingClub) is also widely available for longer-term financing.
Phase I (interceptive) treatment happens before all permanent teeth have erupted, typically ages 6-10. It addresses jaw growth issues and very early problems but is rarely full braces. Phase II is comprehensive treatment after most permanent teeth are in, typically ages 10-14 or adult. Some children need both phases; most need only Phase II.

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Compare what this costs in your city.

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