How Much Does It Cost For Children To Receive Braces?
As a parent, you want the best for your child, and that includes a healthy, confident smile. If your child has crowded teeth, an overbite, or gaps, your pediatric dentist has likely mentioned the word “orthodontics.” The idea of braces for your child can bring up a mix of emotions: relief that there is a solution, but anxiety about the potential cost.
Orthodontic treatment for children is a significant financial investment. Unlike adult treatment, where the goal is often purely aesthetic, childhood orthodontics is frequently about guiding jaw growth and preventing future health problems. Understanding the costs, the best time to start, and how to navigate insurance is crucial for any parent. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the price of braces for children.
The Average Cost of Braces for Children
The cost of braces for a child is similar to, and sometimes slightly less than, the cost for an adult. This is because children’s mouths are still growing, which can sometimes make tooth movement faster and more predictable.
In the United States, the average cost for a standard course of orthodontic treatment for a child ranges from $3,000 to $7,000.
This is a broad range because the price depends on the type of braces, the complexity of the bite, and the length of treatment.
Phase 1 vs. Phase 2 Treatment: The Double Cost
One of the most common financial surprises for parents is the concept of “Two-Phase Treatment.” Not every child needs this, but it is essential to understand.
Phase 1 (Interceptive Treatment)
This is early treatment, usually performed when a child is between 7 and 10 years old. The goal is not necessarily to straighten the teeth but to fix a developing problem, such as a narrow jaw (palatal expansion) or severe crowding that is preventing adult teeth from erupting.
- Duration: 9 – 18 months.
- Cost: $2,000 – $4,000.
Phase 2 (Comprehensive Treatment)
This is the “full braces” phase, usually starting around age 11-13, once all the permanent teeth have erupted.
- Duration: 18 – 24 months.
- Cost: $3,000 – $7,000.
The Total Cost for Two Phases:
If your child needs both phases, you could be looking at a total investment of $5,000 to $11,000 spread over several years.
Important Note for Parents: “Not every child needs two phases. A good orthodontist will tell you if waiting is better. If a doctor recommends Phase 1, ask ‘why?’ and ‘what happens if we wait?’ Sometimes, early intervention saves money in the long run by avoiding extractions or surgery later.” – Dr. Heather Brown, DDS, MS, pediatric orthodontist.
Types of Braces for Children and Their Costs
The “hardware” your child chooses will influence the price.
1. Traditional Metal Braces
These are the classic stainless steel brackets and wires. They are the most common choice for children.
- Cost: $3,000 – $6,000.
- Pros: Most affordable, very durable, and kids can choose colored bands to express their personality.
- Cons: Highly visible.
2. Ceramic (Clear) Braces
These are the same size and shape as metal braces, but the brackets are made of a translucent ceramic material.
- Cost: $4,000 – $7,000.
- Pros: Less noticeable.
- Cons: More fragile (brackets can chip), and the clear or white ties can stain if the child eats curry or drinks dark sodas. Often not recommended for younger teens who are less careful.
3. Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign Teen)
This is a series of clear, removable plastic trays.
- Cost: $4,000 – $7,000.
- Pros: Nearly invisible, removable for eating and brushing.
- Cons: Requires discipline. The child must wear them 22 hours a day. If they lose them or forget to wear them, the treatment fails. Not suitable for all bite types.
A Cost Comparison Table for Kids’ Braces
| Type of Braces | Average Cost | Visibility | Maintenance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Metal | $3,000 – $6,000 | High | Low (very sturdy) | Most kids and teens. |
| Ceramic (Clear) | $4,000 – $7,000 | Low | Moderate (staining) | Responsible older teens. |
| Invisalign Teen | $4,000 – $7,000 | Very Low | High (requires compliance) | Mature, responsible teens. |
Does Dental Insurance Cover Children’s Braces?
This is where you can save the most money. In the US, pediatric dental coverage is mandated by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) for children under 19, but orthodontics is often a separate rider.
1. Dental Insurance (PPO Plans)
If your family dental plan includes orthodontic coverage, it usually works like this:
- Lifetime Maximum: The plan will pay up to a fixed amount for your child’s entire treatment (e.g., $1,500 or $2,000).
- Percentage: Often, they pay 50% of the treatment cost until the lifetime max is hit.
- Age Limits: Some plans only cover children up to 19.
Example:
- Total Cost: $5,000.
- Insurance Coverage: 50% ($2,500).
- You Pay: $2,500.
2. Medicaid and CHIP
For low-income families, Medicaid (and CHIP) provides dental coverage for children.
- Coverage: If the braces are deemed medically necessary (not just cosmetic), Medicaid will usually cover them fully.
- The Catch: “Medically necessary” usually requires a high score on a severity index. If the child’s bite is only mildly crooked, they will not qualify. Waitlists can also be long.
How to Save Money on Your Child’s Braces
Braces are expensive, but there are well-established strategies to manage the cost.
- Use an FSA/HSA: If your employer offers a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), use it. You can set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for braces, effectively saving you 20-30%.
- Monthly Payment Plans: Almost all orthodontists offer in-house financing. You usually pay a small down payment (e.g., $500) and then a monthly fee (e.g., $180/month) for the duration of treatment. These plans are usually zero-interest.
- Dental Schools: If you live near a university with an orthodontic program, your child can receive treatment from a resident under strict supervision.
- Cost: Often 30-50% cheaper than private practice (e.g., $2,500 – $4,000).
- Trade-off: Appointments take longer, and scheduling is less flexible.
- Orthodontic “Scholarships”: Organizations like the Smile for a Lifetime Foundation offer free braces to children in need. Applications are competitive but worth exploring.
- Timing: If your child is in Phase 1, ask if you can wait. Sometimes, waiting a year or two until more adult teeth grow in can simplify the case, shortening the treatment time and cost.
The Hidden Costs Beyond the Braces
The price quote from the orthodontist should be “all-inclusive,” but always ask to be sure. Hidden costs can sneak up on you.
- Records and X-Rays: The initial consultation might be free, but the diagnostic records (3D scans, photos) can cost $250 – $500.
- Retainers: The braces might come off, but the treatment isn’t over. Your child will need retainers for life.
- Cost: $200 – $600 per retainer. They get lost easily! Ask about “Retainer Replacement Plans.”
- Emergency Visits: If your child breaks a bracket eating popcorn or hard candy, there might be a fee to repair it (usually $25 – $50 per bracket).
Expert Quote: “The best investment you can make in your child’s braces is the retainer. So many teenagers finish treatment, lose their retainer in the school cafeteria, and their teeth shift back. Protect that investment.” – Dr. James Scramstad, DMD, orthodontist.
At What Age Should a Child See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7.
This might seem early, but at this age, the mix of baby teeth and adult teeth allows the orthodontist to spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth. It does not mean your child will get braces at 7. It just allows the doctor to monitor growth and determine the ideal time to start treatment.
Conclusion
The cost of braces for children typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000 for a single phase of treatment, with the total potentially rising if early interceptive care is needed. Dental insurance, Medicaid, and flexible payment plans can significantly reduce the financial burden. Investing in orthodontic treatment early often prevents more severe dental problems and costs later in life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is it cheaper to get braces for a child than an adult?
It can be. Children’s jaws are still growing, which can sometimes make treatment faster and less complicated. Additionally, insurance is more likely to cover braces for a minor than for an adult.
2. Can my child get braces with baby teeth still present?
Yes. Braces are often placed on the adult teeth while some baby teeth remain. This is normal. The baby teeth will fall out naturally during treatment.
3. How long do kids wear braces?
The average treatment time is 18 to 24 months. However, it depends on the severity of the case and the child’s compliance with wearing rubber bands and taking care of the braces.
4. What happens if my child loses a retainer?
Call the orthodontist immediately. Teeth can begin shifting within days. You will need to pay for a replacement, so it is a good idea to teach your child to always put it in a case when eating.
5. Are “mail-order” aligners safe for teens?
No. Dental professionals strongly advise against them. Without in-person x-rays and supervision, major problems like root resorption and bite issues can be missed, causing permanent damage to a developing mouth.
Additional Resource
To find an orthodontist near you and learn more about children’s treatment, visit the American Association of Orthodontists: https://www.aaoinfo.org/
