If you’re looking at teeth straightening treatments, the cost of braces is probably of great interest to you. And, if you’re an adult, it’s for good reason. Recent years have seen the introduction of a number of modern alternatives to traditional metal braces, enabling adults to straighten their teeth more discreetly than ever.
But of course, all these advances come at a cost.
The Benefits Of Braces
Orthodontic braces offer a number of benefits to the wearer. And while the aesthetics of crooked teeth is generally what sends patients to the dentist in the first place, there are important health reasons that should be considered too.
Straight teeth are easier to keep clean and free of decay than crooked teeth. Crooked teeth are more susceptible to cavities. They can also cause crowding which, if left untreated can result in loosening teeth or tooth loss.
Orthodontic braces also help with bite correction. If you have an under-bite, overbite or cross-bite, orthodontics can correct it.
What Is The Average Cost of Braces in Australia?
The cost of your orthodontic treatment will depend heavily on the type of braces that you have fitted. It also depends on the extent of treatment required, and the complexity of your case. At Dental 266 we will be pleased to talk you through your orthodontic options.
How Much Do Metal Braces Cost?
Traditional metal braces may not be the most attractive orthodontic solution but history has proven that they really can get the job done, and result in straighter teeth when fitted and worn correctly.
If you are going to have metal braces fitted, you can expect to budget in the range of $5000 to $9000, depending on your treatment.
What Can You Expect To Pay For Lingual Braces?
Lingual braces are highly effective at straightening teeth and also offer the wearer some discretion as they are worn on the inside of your teeth. Because of the skills required to fit them, they tend to be more expensive. Lingual braces treatment generally costs upwards of $9000.
How Much Do Invisible Braces Cost?
Adults and teenagers who are more self-conscious of their appearance during orthodontic treatment will be pleased to find out that invisible braces have become really popular. They do also tend to have a higher price tag than their traditional counterparts.
Invisible braces cost usually is in the range of $6000 to $9000 for an 18 month treatment, however, if you only require minor corrections, this could drop the price.
These prices are intended to be considered as ballpark figures. Of course, if you require any additional treatments or appliances, these will affect the cost.
What Can You Expect To Pay For Orthodontics?
Once your dentist has evaluated your mouth he will create a treatment plan, outlining the steps that need to be followed for your corrective treatment. You will be presented with a quote for the cost of braces for the entire process, and this is usually 18 to 24 months of treatment.
To make sure your costing is comprehensive, ask your dentist or orthodontist if the following line items are included:
Your consultation, progress reviews and check ups
There will be a number of visits to your dental practitioner and these add up over 18 months. Make sure these costs are included in your costing.
Your orthodontic appliances
Your aligners, braces and wires will account for a large proportion of your final costing. Ask your dentist if your quote includes all the appliances for the full duration of your treatment.
Post-treatment care
You will need to make visits to your dentists after treatment, to ensure that your teeth do not drift back into their old position. Most people need to wear a removable retainer at night after their braces have been removed. Double check that this is accommodated in your costing.
Does Health Insurance Cover The Cost Of Orthodontics?
Some health insurance policies will provide some cover for orthodontics treatment but if you are claiming from Medicare, braces will not be a benefit. If you intend to claim from your health insurance you would need to check the fine print of your contract before going ahead with any treatment.
It is also advisable to check if there is a waiting period applicable to your policy as some health insurances do institute a 12-month waiting period.
To find out more about how much braces cost and which option offers the most effective results for your teeth straightening needs, please contact us: 02 9051 0600
