How to Get the Most Inexpensive Braces

Braces are used to correct crooked, crowded or excessively spaced teeth. Correcting these problems is not just a matter of improving appearance but also safeguarding health, as improperly positioned teeth can cause difficulties in chewing and speaking, problems in properly cleaning the teeth and jaw injuries. Braces, though, are a hefty investment, typically ranging in cost from $4,000 to $10,000. You can keep your costs at the low end of that range.

Instructions

Instructions

• 1

  Choose the traditional metal braces. Although you can also now get specialized braces, such as ceramic braces that are the same color as teeth, or monocrystalline sapphire braces that are nearly clear, these options have no advantage over metal braces except the temporary cosmetic one, yet they add to the cost.

• 2

  Research insurance options. Look at multiple plans, either online or through an insurance agent. It's important to examine plans closely and compare them. Consider the costs, the deductibles, and the co-pays. Note that most plans treat braces as cosmetic, and therefore either do not cover them at all or cover only a small portion of the cost. So it may turn out not to be advantageous to obtain dental insurance for braces, but it's worth looking into.

• 3

  Contact your state's dental association to ask if they have any advice for obtaining less expensive braces in your state. This is the kind of inquiry they receive often, so they are used to steering people in the appropriate direction.

• 4

  Contact any dental schools in your area and tell them you are looking for inexpensive braces. Often you can obtain a significant break on the cost of braces by having the orthodontic work done by a dental school student. This does not mean you'll be receiving subpar care; the student will be working under the close supervision of an instructor who is fully qualified in orthodontics.

• 5

  Negotiate with your orthodontist. The cost of braces may not be cast in stone. Medical professionals are used to offering discounts for cash (non-insured) patients, and patients in difficult financial straits. Your orthodontist may or may not be willing to reduce the cost of braces for you, but it doesn't hurt to ask.