You just left the orthodontist’s office with a treatment plan in hand and the number at the bottom feels bigger than you expected. Like most parents and adults, you want a clear answer to the question: how much to get braces in 2026?
The full cost of getting braces averages $3,000 to $7,000 for traditional metal braces. Ceramic, self-ligating, lingual, and clear aligner options cost more. This price includes the initial consult, records (X-rays and scans), appliance installation, monthly adjustments, and retainers. This page walks you through every line item so you know exactly what you are paying for and how to compare quotes fairly.
Most offices bundle these into one total price of getting braces between $3,000 and $7,000 for metal braces. The quote should clearly list everything included so there are no surprise add-ons later.
How Much to Get Braces by Appliance Type
The type of appliance you choose changes the total cost of getting braces.
| Brace Type | Price Range (2026) | Typical Treatment Time | Best For | Main Drawback |
| Traditional Metal Braces | $3,000 – $7,000 | 18–24 months | Most cases, including complex | Most visible |
| Ceramic Braces | $4,000 – $8,500 | 18–24 months | Less noticeable brackets | Brackets can stain |
| Self-Ligating Braces (Damon system) | $4,000 – $8,000 | 12–20 months | Fewer office visits | Slightly higher upfront cost |
| Lingual Braces | $8,000 – $13,000 | 18–36 months | Completely hidden braces | Temporary speech changes |
| Clear Aligners (Invisalign, Spark) | $3,000 – $8,000 | 6–18 months | Mild to moderate crowding | Not ideal for severe bite issues |
Traditional metal braces remain the lowest-cost way to get braces for most patients.
How Much to Get Braces by Age Group
Children (ages 7–11)
Phase 1 early treatment costs $2,000–$4,500. Many offices credit this fee toward Phase 2, so the total cost of getting braces across both phases is lower.
Teens (ages 12–17)
Full treatment falls in the $3,000–$7,000 range for metal braces. This is when dental insurance benefits apply most often.
Adults (age 18+)
Adult cases often reach the higher end ($4,500–$9,000 or more) because teeth move more slowly after growth stops.
What Drives the Cost of Getting Braces Up or Down
Several concrete factors decide your final number:
- Case complexity, mild crowding is cheaper than severe overbite with extractions or TADs.
- Treatment length, every extra month adds roughly $150–$250 in adjustments.
- Location, coastal cities run 20–40% higher than the national average.
- Appliance choice, ceramic or lingual braces raise the cost of getting braces compared with basic metal.
For the most current local numbers, check our state guides: braces cost in California, braces cost in Texas, braces cost in New York, and every other state page on Brass Smile.
Insurance and the Real Cost of Getting Braces
Most dental plans list a lifetime orthodontic maximum of $1,000–$3,000 and cover dependents under 18 only. Call your insurer and ask for your exact remaining benefit and whether your orthodontist is in-network.
You can use HSA or FSA funds tax-free for any qualified orthodontic expense. This lowers your out-of-pocket cost of getting braces by 20–30%.
Paying for Braces Without Insurance
Most offices require a 20–30% down payment then charge $100–$300 per month over 18–36 months. Discount dental plans cut 20–40% at participating clinics. Orthodontic residency programs at NYU, UCLA, or the University of Michigan offer supervised treatment for 30–50% less.
Hidden Costs That Add to the Cost of Getting Braces
Budget an extra 10–15% for:
- Retainers ($150–$600 per set, needed nightly for life)
- Emergency visits for a broken bracket ($50–$300 each)
- Replacement parts ($100–$400)
- Custom sports mouthguards for kids ($150–$400)
Frequently Asked Questions About How Much to Get Braces
How much to get braces without insurance?
Without insurance the full cost of getting braces averages $3,000 to $7,000 for traditional metal braces in 2026. Payment plans make the total manageable.
How much does getting braces cost for teenagers?
Teen getting braces cost usually falls between $3,000 and $7,000 for metal. Insurance benefits apply most often at this age.
How much it cost to get braces for adults?
Adult getting braces cost often reaches $4,500 to $9,000 or more because treatment takes longer after growth stops.
Does the initial consult count toward how much to get braces?
Most offices credit the $75–$300 consultation fee toward treatment if you start within 30 days.
What is included in the full cost of getting braces?
The full cost includes consult, records, appliance, adjustments, and retainers. Ask for a written itemized quote so nothing is missed.
Can I use HSA or FSA for the cost of getting braces?
Yes. Both accounts treat qualified orthodontic expenses as eligible medical costs.
How do I compare quotes for how much to get braces?
Get written plans from two board-certified orthodontists and compare the same line items: appliance fee, records, retainers, and number of adjustments.