Dental Braces: Treatment & Costs
Reviewed June 2024 by Our Content Experts
- What are Dental Braces?
- How Much Do Braces Cost?
- Do I Need Braces?
- What Are the Different Types of Braces?
- What are the Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment?
- How Often Will I Need to Have My Braces Adjusted?
- Are There Any Alternatives to Braces?
- How Can I Find a Smile Quality Approved General Dentist or Orthodontist?
What are Dental Braces?
Dental braces, or orthodontic cases, are devices used by dental professionals to straighten crooked teeth or correct a misaligned bite. They help to reposition the teeth with an aim to adjust the bite and result in a beautifully straight smile.
Braces work by placing constant pressure on each tooth to move them to the desired position. They are tightened at each returning visit to your Smile dentist, applying slightly more pressure to the teeth to continue to move them into their proper position.
How Much Do Braces Cost?
The cost of braces will vary depending on your individual circumstances. In Australia, the cost of ceramic braces can range from $5,000 to $8,500 for a standard 18-month treatment. Traditional metal braces can cost up to $8,000. The cost of lingual braces start at approximately $7,500 for a single arch and from $12,500 for a full treatment. Clear braces tend to cost between $2,000 and $9,000 depending on the type of aligners you get and your individual circumstances. With Smile dental cover, you get reduced and capped fees on all types of braces with any of our 4,000+ Smile dentists.
Braces and Invisalign Cost Comparison Table
Reviewed June 2024 by Expert Georgi Mack
| Dental service | Regular Patients Typically Pay | Example Smile Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional metal braces | $4,500 - $8,000 | $3,825 - $6,800 |
| Ceramic braces | $5,000 - $8,500 | $4,250 - $7,225 |
| Lingual braces (single arch) | from $7,500 | from $6,375 |
| Lingual braces (full treatment) | approximately $12,500 | approximately $10,625 |
| Invisalign minor treatments | from $4,500 | from $3,825 |
| Invisalign full treatments | $6,000 - $9,000 | $5,100 - $7,650 |
| Clear alternative (like Clear Correct) | $2,000 - $5,500 | $1,700 - $4,675 |
| With Smile, get reduced dental fees on the spot performed by a Smile dentist including orthodontics! | ||
| 'Regular Patients Typically Pay' is based on the Australian Dental Association (ADA) and Health Industry Claims and Payments Service (HICAPS). Member savings are often more! These examples are guides, your treatment may vary. | ||
|
Join Smile & save on braces instantly!
 Top-rated dental cover in Australia! 
|
||
Do I Need Braces?
People of all ages require braces for a variety of reasons. They may need to fix orthodontic problems or they may simply desire a perfectly straight smile if they were not blessed with naturally straight teeth. You might consider getting braces if you have:
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Gapped teeth
- An overbite
- An underbite
- A crossbite
- An incorrectly positioned jaw.
Whether you are looking to correct a structural issue or you are considering getting braces purely for cosmetic purposes, they can not only correct the positioning of your teeth, but also improve your overall oral health.
What Are the Different Types of Braces?
There are four main types of braces – metal, ceramic, lingual and Invisalign or invisible braces.
Metal Braces
Metal braces consist of metal brackets and wires. Modern metal wired braces are much smaller and less noticeable than they used to be, and even feature heat-activated archwires that use your body heat to assist in moving teeth faster and less painfully.
This style is the most affordable, and the option of fun coloured bands allow you to personalise them with your favourite colours. Traditional, metal braces are the most noticeable type.
Ceramic Braces
While these are the same size and shape as metal braces, they feature tooth-coloured or clear brackets to blend in with the teeth for a less noticeable appearance. Some even have the option of tooth-coloured wires for further subtlety.
Ceramic braces are a great option for those who desire the fast results of metal without standing out so much on the teeth. This style can stain easily if not looked after correctly.
Lingual Braces
These braces are the same as metal braces but are placed on the inside of the teeth. This makes them invisible from the outside, but it can also make them more difficult to keep clean. They can be more uncomfortable at first and adjustments can be more time-consuming than regular braces.
Invisalign (Invisible Braces)
Invisalign are clear braces- 18 to 30 customised clear plastic removable aligners that are replaced every two weeks. These allow you to eat and drink whatever you want and are virtually invisible. They are also the most expensive option, are only available for teenagers and adults, and may have slower results than traditional braces.
What are the Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment gives you more than just an aesthetically pleasing smile. You can also enjoy other benefits such as:
- Teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of plaque build-up, gum disease and tooth decay
- Breath is improved
- Reduced risk of teeth wear
- Improved chewing functionality
- Eliminated stress and pain of jaw joints.
Orthodontic problems can lead to more serious health issues, so if you are concerned about your oral health, it is always best to visit your Smile dentist as soon as possible to discuss your options and get a treatment plan.
How Often Will I Need to Have My Braces Adjusted?
Your Smile dentist will schedule adjustment revisits depending on your needs and the stage of your treatment. Generally, patients are seen every 4-8 weeks, but this can change for each individual. Regular monitoring is required by your dentist to review the treatment progress.
Does Health Insurance Cover the Cost of Braces?
Some health insurance plans provide benefits for orthodontic treatments, but usually have long waiting periods and benefit limits. Smile is a great alternative to health insurance for dental, as we have no waiting periods, benefit limits or treatment exclusions. You save on every treatment, every time you visit a Smile dentist! It can also work with your current health insurance to reduce your out of pocket and ensure you don't reach those benefit limits as quickly.
Are There Any Alternatives to Braces?
Depending on your orthodontic issue, there are alternative treatments available. For example, if you are looking to correct a small gap in your front teeth, you might consider dental bonding instead of braces. Your Smile dentist can discuss your options with you, and discuss whether or not braces are medically necessary for you.
How can I Find a Smile Dentist or Orthodontist?
When it comes to your health and smile, it’s important to place your trust in experienced professionals. By visiting a Smile dentist, you are assured quality care and reduced and capped fees on your orthodontic treatments. Simply click the button below to find your closest!
Join Now & Save Instantly!
For the top-rated dental cover in Australia, join Smile from just $79 a year and choose a Smile dentist. Join online in 2 minutes by clicking Join Now & Benefit Instantly.
Back to Top
